Northern Border Regional Commission – Concord, NH

About the Northern Border Regional Commission

The Northern Border Regional Commission (NBRC) is a federal-state partnership for economic and community development, headquartered in Concord, New Hampshire. Located within the James C. Cleveland Federal Building, the Commission focuses on alleviating economic distress in specific counties across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New York. Created by the U.S. Congress in 2008, the NBRC strategically invests federal funds into projects that upgrade infrastructure, support workforce development, and promote outdoor recreation and tourism.

Grant Programs and Impact

The Commission primarily operates through grant-making, offering financial assistance to local governments, non-profits, and other eligible entities. Its flagship Catalyst Program funds a wide array of projects, including water and wastewater system modernization, transportation improvements, and broadband expansion. The Forest Economy Program is specifically designed to support the forest-based industry, which is vital to the region’s economy. By leveraging federal resources, the NBRC aims to create jobs and improve the quality of life in the rural northern border region.

• Infrastructure: Funding for water, sewer, and telecommunications projects.
• Forest Economy: Support for the timber and wood products industry.
• Workforce: Initiatives to develop skills and retain workers in the region.

Office Access and Information

As a tenant of the James C. Cleveland Federal Building, the NBRC office is subject to strict federal security protocols. Visitors must have a scheduled appointment to access the suite and are required to present a valid government-issued ID and pass through security screening upon entering the building. The staff at this location manages the administrative and programmatic functions of the Commission, working closely with state governors’ representatives to identify regional priorities. While it is not a walk-in service center for the general public, information about grant opportunities and applications is extensively available on their official website.