Featured Member: Grafton Regional Development Corporation
Our featured member, Grafton Regional Development Corporation, is one of the most impactful economic development organizations serving the North Country and greater Grafton County region. Whether you are launching a startup, expanding an established business, or looking for guidance to navigate today’s challenging economic climate, GRDC has the tools, expertise, and financing solutions to help you succeed.
Who Is GRDC?
Grafton Regional Development Corporation (GRDC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1997 and headquartered at 131 Main Street in Plymouth, NH. Its mission is straightforward and powerful: foster partnerships that fuel economic growth and build communities that thrive. For nearly three decades, GRDC has served as a vital connector between Grafton County entrepreneurs and the resources they need to start, grow, and sustain successful businesses.
GRDC is reachable at (603) 536-2011, by email at connect@graftonrdc.org, and online at graftonrdc.org.
Business Loans That Fill the Gap
One of GRDC’s most essential services is its suite of flexible business lending programs. GRDC specializes in helping businesses that may not qualify for traditional bank financing alone, providing “gap funding” that makes deals possible. Loan proceeds can be used for a wide range of purposes, including capital purchases, equipment and machinery, real estate, working capital, leasehold improvements, job training, and start-up operating costs.
GRDC’s Microloan Program offers financing from $5,000 to $50,000 for Grafton County businesses, while its Revolving Loan Fund is designed to help businesses retain and create jobs throughout the region. In the past five years alone, GRDC’s loan programs have delivered over $2.9 million in financing to Grafton County businesses. For businesses in the greater Littleton area, GRDC works closely with local banks and lenders throughout the county to find the financing package that fits each unique situation.
Free Business Advising and Workshops
Access to capital is only part of what makes a business thrive. GRDC understands that, which is why its business assistance programs are just as robust as its lending portfolio. Since 2013, GRDC has conducted over 100 free workshops on topics ranging from digital marketing and social media to intellectual property protection and financial planning, benefiting more than 1,000 businesses across the county.
On top of group workshops, GRDC provides personalized one-on-one business counseling in partnership with the NH Small Business Development Center (NHSBDC). Over the last three years, GRDC has delivered more than 784 hours of free, individualized business advising. Whether you need help building a business plan, preparing a loan application, or identifying your next growth opportunity, GRDC’s advisors bring real-world experience to the table.
Business Incubators and Workforce Development
GRDC also manages and supports two business incubators in Grafton County: the Enterprise Center at Plymouth (ECP) and the Dartmouth Regional Technology Center (DRTC) in Lebanon. These facilities provide startups and growing businesses with office space, shared resources, mentorship, and a built-in community of fellow entrepreneurs. Together, they support more than 40 startups and growing small businesses.
Recognizing that a strong local economy depends on a skilled workforce, GRDC is also deeply invested in workforce development. Through partnerships with local schools, universities, and employers, GRDC supports programs like the North Country Workplace Education Program, which connects high school students with competency-based internships and on-the-job training opportunities.
A Partner for the Entire Business Lifecycle
What sets GRDC apart from other economic development organizations is its commitment to businesses at every stage. From the earliest spark of an idea through years of growth and expansion, GRDC walks alongside Grafton County business owners as a true partner.
As GRDC CEO Anne Duncan Cooley has said, “Successful local businesses are the foundation of a thriving and vibrant economy in the region.” That belief drives everything GRDC does.
If you are a business owner or entrepreneur in the Littleton area or anywhere in Grafton County, GRDC wants to hear from you. Reach out today at (603) 536-2011, email connect@graftonrdc.org, or visit graftonrdc.org to learn how GRDC can help your business grow.
