On Wednesday, April 16, the Rochester Economic Development Commission hosted the 2025 Seacoast Manufacturing Exchange at Laars Heating Systems. More than 75 registrants were in attendance.
The Exchange was organized as a forum where manufacturers could network, exchange ideas, and work together to identify strategic partnerships, cultivate new markets, and develop new products.
A focused panel discussion included Tony Fernandez, Center Director and President of the NH Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP); Chase Hagaman, Director of the Division of Economic Development at the Business and Economic Affairs (BEA); Richard Lavers, Deputy Commissioner of NH Employment Security; Liz Gray, State Director of the NH Small Business Development Center (SBDC); Tim Heard, Certified Mentor with SCORE; and Dennis McCann, Executive Director of the Strafford Economic Development Corporation (SEDC).
Additionally, New Hampshire Governor Kelly Ayotte provided remarks and answered questions from participants.
“Our Seacoast is a hub for advanced manufacturing and technology thanks to the innovative leaders and strong partnerships with communities like Rochester,” said Ayotte. “I thank the Rochester Economic Development Commission for bringing stakeholders and leaders together at the Seacoast Manufacturing Exchange to discuss how we can keep growing these jobs in our state.”
Ayotte emphasized that by attracting new businesses, investing in workforce development, and preserving New Hampshire’s business-friendly regulatory environment, the state will continue to lead and thrive.
