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How can a municipality/non-profit apply for
funding?
The only way to apply for funding is to complete a Call for Projects form and put your project on the Land and Community Heritage (LCH) Register. Submissions are accepted biannually. Contact the office at 603-224-4113 to find out when the Register will be open to submissions.
Who picks the projects for funding?
We have an 18-member Board of Directors, appointed by the
Governor, which includes four Legislators. Two Representatives and two Senators.
The Board of Directors selects all projects for funding.
Where are the funds invested and who gets grants?
Funds are invested statewide in working lands such as
farms and forests, and in historic buildings for economic revitalization. Only
municipalities and non-profits are eligible for grants. Small towns like Lee
and large cities like Manchester all have
an equal chance.
How long does it take to complete an average project?
Eighteen months is the average time it takes to complete a
project from fundraising to closing. Projects are paid out in full once the
project is 100% complete.
How does the Heritage Investment Program pay for its administration?
We receive $6 from each sale of the conservation license
plate (Moose Plate). Our administration is paid for with the license plate funds
(60%) and from interest earned on our Trust Fund (40%).
What is the most direct economic benefit to the State?
For every $1 of grant funds invested in a project, the
community raises an additional $5.95 from other private, federal and municipal
sources to match it. That $5.95 far exceeds the required level of match, and
strengthens the local economy. And, the historic building revitalization grants
alone have generated 606 jobs in NH in the past four years.
How much funding is really needed to have an effective Program?
In 1999 the Land and Community Heritage Commission,
recommended a funding level of $12 million per year. We have never come close to
that figure, and since 1999 property values have increased by 96% statewide.
Demand far exceeds the funding we have had available, and to have a meaningful
impact the Program needs at least $12 million per year.
Why can't the funding come from nonprofits and communities?
Eighty percent (80%) of the funding for a project already
comes from the community. LCHIP funds only cover on average, 20% of the project
cost. The State has an important role to play, by being the lynchpin-funding
source that holds a project together and helps ensure it gets done.
Why is this Program a priority at a time of economic challenges?
New studies show that NH has one of the fastest growing
populations east of the Mississippi. We cannot wait to make this essential
investment in our economy. If we do not act to guaranty the character and values
of NH now, the cost and ability to do so later will be unfeasible.
How Can I Learn More?
Call the Heritage Investment Program Office at
603-224-4113.
Map showing communities that were funded and unfunded:
