New Hampshire Art Association expands opportunities for artists across the state

New Hampshire Art Association (NHAA) in Portsmouth is leveraging awarded tax credits from the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) to expand economic and educational opportunities for artists throughout the state. MVSB (Meredith Village Savings Bank) is proud to purchase $5,000 in tax credits to support the organization.

NHAA has recognized a growing need to expand access to resources for rural artists, particularly those with entrepreneurial ambitions who live outside of major art hubs such as Portsmouth and the Seacoast. Funds from the tax credit program will help the organization build capacity to design and implement two new pilot initiatives – the Rural Artist Carrier Service and the Artist Professional Development Program – aimed at expanding access to supports and programming for artists in rural communities.

“The New Hampshire Art Association is committed to ensuring that artists across the state have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed,” said Amanda Kidd-Kestler, NHAA executive director. “These new programs will allow us to reach artists who have historically had limited access to professional development and exhibition opportunities. We are deeply grateful for MVSB’s support, which helps us strengthen the creative economy and empower artists in every corner of New Hampshire.”

“Art and creativity are vital to the health, vibrancy and heritage of our communities,” said Jim Carrigan, MVSB regional vice president. “The Association’s work to expand opportunities for artists — especially in rural areas — will have a lasting impact on the state’s cultural and economic landscape.”

The New Hampshire Art Association is the state’s primary organization dedicated to serving artists and fostering connections between artists and communities. Learn more at nhartassociation.org.

CDFA tax credits allow businesses to fund qualifying economic or community development projects in exchange for a tax credit that can be applied against state business tax payments. The tax credits are administered by the New Hampshire CDFA. Any business with operations in New Hampshire that contributes to a CDFA tax credit project receives a New Hampshire state tax credit worth 75 percent of their contribution. The credit can be used over a period of five years to reduce the business’ state tax liability (business profits, business enterprise, or insurance premium taxes). The tax credit program allows New Hampshire businesses to use their state tax dollars to support local projects that they care about. CDFA reviews many project applications each year, and awards tax credits to those they determine are feasible and will make the biggest impact on economic development in the state. Visit nhcdfa.org for more information.

MVSB has been serving the essential banking needs of people, businesses, nonprofits and municipalities for over 150 years. As a mutual savings bank, MVSB has no stockholders but rather operates for the benefit of its customers, employees and community. Since our founding, one thing has always remained true: caring is at the heart of everything we do. By building and nurturing relationships, we believe that we can cultivate a community where we all thrive. It all starts with caring about our customers and neighbors. To learn more, visit any of the local branch offices located in New Hampshire in Alton, Ashland, Center Harbor, Exeter, Gilford, Laconia, Melvin Village, Meredith, Moultonborough, North Conway, Plymouth, Portsmouth, Rochester or Wolfeboro, call 800.922.6872 or visit mvsb.com.
 

DISCLAIMER: The above was not created by, but is being shared by the Chamber Collaborative on behalf of a member.