WASHINGTON – The U.S. Department of Labor today announced a $250,000 Regional Innovation Grant to New Hampshire to develop strategic plans to address the reemployment needs of workers affected by the downsizing of the pulp and paper industry in Coös County and the surrounding region.

“This area of New Hampshire and its bordering communities have been heavily impacted by the downsizing of the pulp and paper industry,” said Deputy Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training Douglas F. Small.  “This 250,000 grant will help New Hampshire’s North Country establish regional economic development strategies that create better opportunities for workers.”

The grant, awarded to the New Hampshire Department of Labor, will assist the region in establishing a core leadership group to advance ongoing development of strategies and partnerships for Coös County and the surrounding area.  Representatives from the business, education, and economic and workforce development sectors along with partners from community-based organizations will make up the region’s leadership group.

Activities conducted under the grant will focus on addressing challenges related to an aging workforce, the departure of young and talented potential workers, and a declining economic base.

Regional Innovation Grants are drawn from National Emergency Grant funds to assist state workforce agencies and local workforce investment boards, as well as their key partners, in the design and development of comprehensive and strategic regional plans focused on talent development that is aligned with the demands of the 21st century economy.

National Emergency Grants are part of the Secretary of Labor’s discretionary fund and are awarded based on a state’s ability to meet specific guidelines. For more information on National Emergency Grants and other Department of Labor employment and training programs, please visit www.doleta.gov/NEG.