Celebrating Excellence in Lending Across New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Business Finance Authority (BFA) recently hosted its fifth annual Granite State Awards, a prestigious event that recognizes outstanding contributions from lending partners across the state. Held at Arts Alley in Concord, the celebration brought together industry leaders to honor financial institutions and individuals who have excelled in supporting New Hampshire’s economic growth.
Six distinguished lenders were acknowledged for their remarkable efforts in facilitating business expansion, job creation, and community development through effective use of BFA programs.
Recognizing Key Contributors to Economic Growth
James Key-Wallace, Executive Director of the BFA, emphasized the importance of these partnerships in driving the state’s economy forward. “Each year, we’re proud to recognize the extraordinary work our banking partners do to strengthen New Hampshire’s economy,” he said. “These lenders exemplify what it means to invest in their communities. They help local businesses gain access to the capital they need to thrive, create jobs, and contribute to the Granite State’s continued economic success.”
2025 Granite State Award Recipients
This year’s awards highlighted six categories, each celebrating a unique achievement in lending and community support:
- Bond Deal of the Year – Awarded to Jim Lynch of Claremont Savings Bank and Collin De La Bruere of Bank of America for their work with GreenSource Fabrication.
- Community Impact Award – Given to Max Rossignol of BankProv for his contributions to Charmingfare Farm, enhancing local tourism and agribusiness.
- Veteran Deal of the Year – Presented to Jonathan Shapleigh of Bank of New Hampshire for supporting Fit 2 Move, a veteran-owned business.
- Loan Participation of the Year – Earned by Bill Collins of Rockland Trust for his collaborative financing of United Staging.
- CAP Lender of the Year – Awarded to Mary Jane Ricker of Franklin Savings Bank for her work in providing accessible capital through the Capital Access Program.
The honorees were selected for their innovative use of BFA’s financial tools to enable local businesses to grow sustainably and responsibly. These awards illustrate the crucial role lenders play in shaping the economic landscape of New Hampshire.
Event Highlights and Community Engagement
The awards ceremony, held in the heart of Concord, was attended by business leaders, state officials, community stakeholders, and members of the financial sector. Attendees had the opportunity to network, share success stories, and celebrate the positive impact of public-private partnerships in the state’s economy.
With a focus on collaboration and innovation, the BFA continues to empower lenders to meet the evolving needs of New Hampshire’s diverse business community. These awards underscore the importance of fostering relationships that prioritize economic development and inclusive growth.
Looking Ahead
As the Granite State faces ongoing economic challenges and opportunities, the role of strategic lending becomes even more essential. The BFA’s recognition of these six lenders serves as a reminder of the power of financial institutions to drive meaningful change. By supporting entrepreneurs, startups, and established businesses alike, these lenders help maintain New Hampshire’s reputation as a robust and resilient marketplace.
With initiatives like the Granite State Awards, the BFA aims to spotlight best practices and inspire others in the financial sector to continue investing in their communities. The organization remains committed to expanding access to capital and fostering a thriving economic environment for all.
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