Role in the Funding Ecosystem
As the state's community foundation, New Hampshire Charitable Foundation serves as a central philanthropic organization connecting generous donors with community needs. Since 1962, it has awarded over $1 billion in grants and scholarships, making it one of the largest funders of nonprofit work and student scholarships in New Hampshire.
Grant Programs and Funding Areas
The Foundation provides competitive grant programs for qualified nonprofit organizations advancing health and well-being, environmental protection, education, housing and basic needs, arts and culture, civic health, and economic security. It also offers targeted initiative funding in early childhood and family supports, basic needs, behavioral health, civic health, education and career pathways, and environment and climate.
Scholarship Programs
The Foundation awards nearly $8 million annually in scholarships to help students pursue two-year and four-year degrees and professional certificates. Scholarship programs include the Mark and Diana McNabb Scholarship and the Neil and Louise Tillotson Scholarship.
Specialized Funds
The Foundation manages the Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund, one of the largest permanent rural philanthropies in the country, distributing over $5 million annually to Coös County and surrounding regions. Other funds include the Wellborn Ecology Fund and the Greater Rochester Community Health Foundation.
Transparency and Governance
The Foundation is accredited with the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations and publishes audited financial statements and annual reports. It is governed by a board of directors and overseen by an investment committee.