(Durham, NH) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, was joined by Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), Granite State entrepreneurs and New Hampshire Small Business Development Center (SBDC) partners and team members to commemorate the 40th anniversary of New Hampshire’s SBDC.

“Now more than ever, expanding SBDC support is critical to keep up with the historic rise in entrepreneurship,” said Chair Shaheen. “To the New Hampshire SBDC network and all the New Hampshire SBDC counselors here today and across the state: thank you. You make America strong. You ensure our small businesses and communities stay vibrant, and it is because of you that we will strengthen our local economies and continue to move America forward. Congratulations on 40 years, and we expect at least 40 more.”

The NH SBDC is a cornerstone of New Hampshire’s small business community — 99% of Granite State businesses are small businesses, and over 110,000 entrepreneurs have worked with the NH SBDC since it was founded in 1984. In 2023, the NH SBDC helped entrepreneurs raise more than $37 million in new capital and advised more than 3,400 clients while delivering 76 training events across New Hampshire. The NH SBDC is a partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration and America’s SBDC, which offers services across the country. 

As a former small business owner, Chair Shaheen understands the importance of the NH SBDC to the Granite State’s economy. She has fought to increase funding for the SBDC program nationwide and has worked diligently to ensure that the NH SBDC has the resources it needs to give New Hampshire entrepreneurs the skills necessary to start and grow their small businesses.