Manchester, New Hampshire, has long been a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The city’s rich industrial history has evolved into a dynamic environment where small businesses and startups can thrive. A variety of organizations and programs are dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs, offering resources ranging from financial assistance to mentorship and educational workshops.
Manchester Development Corporation (MDC)
The Manchester Development Corporation (MDC) plays a pivotal role in fostering economic growth within the city. MDC offers several programs designed to assist businesses at various stages:
- Enhance MHT: A $500 matching grant aimed at businesses and landlords for improvements such as streetscape enhancements, outdoor seating, façade upgrades, window displays, and signage.
- Kickstart MHT: Low-interest loans tailored to help downtown businesses start or expand their operations.
- Queen City Loan Fund: Provides gap financing for larger business investments, facilitating substantial growth and development projects.
These initiatives are designed to support local businesses, encourage downtown development, and provide essential financing for business expansion and beautification projects.
New Hampshire Small Business Development Center (NH SBDC)
The NH SBDC is a leading resource for business advising and education for small businesses across the state. Their services include:
- Confidential, one-on-one business counseling available at no cost.
- A range of educational programs, including eCourses and webinars, covering topics such as marketing, finance, and business planning.
- Specialized programs like the ‘Pathway to Micro,’ which assists unemployed or under-employed individuals in launching micro businesses (1-5 employees).
In 2025, the NH SBDC served over 3,000 entrepreneurs in more than 220 communities, demonstrating a significant impact on the state’s small business ecosystem.
Manchester Community Resource Center (MCRC)
MCRC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting individuals facing multiple barriers to achieving their financial and personal goals. Their services include:
- Access to employment opportunities and career counseling.
- Educational programs and life skills training.
- Supportive services such as notary, copying, scanning, faxing, and access to public computers equipped with internet and resume-writing software.
For those who have participated in the New Hampshire Employment Program (NHEP), MCRC offers the Career Advancement Services (CAS) program, which provides additional support for career growth and financial improvement.
Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Manchester Chamber serves as the voice of business in the region, aiming to shape economic success and enhance the quality of life. The Chamber offers:
- Networking opportunities through events and programs.
- Advocacy for business-friendly policies at local and state levels.
- Resources and support for businesses of all sizes to thrive in the community.
By fostering a hospitable community with significant opportunities, the Chamber plays a crucial role in Manchester’s economic development.
New Hampshire Community Navigator Program
This program is designed to reduce barriers to accessing critical resources for small businesses, focusing on microenterprises, cooperatives, and businesses in the early stages of development. It particularly supports women, socially and economically disadvantaged, and underserved entrepreneurs by providing free technical assistance and resources to help them grow and thrive.
NH Tech Alliance
The NH Tech Alliance has been the voice of technology and innovation in New Hampshire for nearly 30 years. As a member-driven organization, it helps drive the state’s economy through financial, technical, legislative, and educational programs that focus on advancing innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-based industrial development.
University of New Hampshire Entrepreneurship Center (ECenter)
The ECenter delivers unique, hands-on, experiential programming that inspires, nurtures, and mentors students from any major, at every step in the process, from idea development to company creation. Programs include:
- Workshops, speaker series, and ideathons to build entrepreneurial skills.
- Student Idea Coaching to help grow ideas or early-stage startups.
- Student Idea Fund providing micro grants to help cover startup costs.
By leveraging these resources, Manchester’s entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance necessary to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business. The city’s commitment to fostering a vibrant business community ensures that both new and established businesses have the tools they need to succeed.