Governor Kelly Ayotte officially proclaimed June 10, 2025, as NH Outdoor Industry Day, honoring the vital role of the outdoor recreation sector to the Granite State’s economy, workforce, and way of life.
The proclamation ceremony was held at Veteran’s Memorial Park, drawing a crowd of more than 250 people, including business leaders, non-profits, outdoor enthusiasts.
New Hampshire’s outdoor economy ranks 8th nationally for its percentage contribution to state GDP, the sector sustains nearly 32,000 jobs and approximately 1,000 small businesses across diverse industries like hospitality, manufacturing, retail, tourism, and professional services. According to the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, New Hampshire’s outdoor recreation industry generated nearly $4 billion in revenue 2023, accounting for 4.5% of the state’s total employment. These are the highest recorded levels since the agency tracking began in 2012.
“New Hampshire’s outdoor industry is more than a source of recreation—it’s a cornerstone of our economy and our way of life,” said Governor Kelly Ayotte. “From our beaches to our mountains, to our lakes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in our state, and I’m so proud of the people and businesses who help showcase our natural beauty. Today, on New Hampshire Outdoor Industry Day, we’re honoring the businesses, nonprofits, and individuals who are building a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant Granite State through the power of the outdoors.”
As part of the Outdoor Industry Day celebration, the Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) unveiled the Workforce Toolkit for the Outdoor Lifestyle—a first-of-its kind resource designed to help New Hampshire employers integrate outdoor recreation assets as a strategic advantage in talent recruitment, hiring, and retention.
“New Hampshire’s outdoor industry is a cornerstone of our economy and our culture,” said BEA Commissioner Taylor Caswell. “Today, we are proud to introduce a powerful new tool for employers to help businesses compete for top talent, reduce turnover, and strengthen community connections. It’s a game-changer for our state’s workforce development efforts.”
Alongside the Governor Ayotte and Commissioner Caswell, Outdoor Industry Day speakers included Manchester Mayor Jay Ruais, BEA Office of Outdoor Recreation Industry Development (ORID) Director Janel Lawton, Granite Outdoor Alliance (GOA) Director Tyler Ray, and NEMO Equipment Founder and CEO Cam Brensinger.
“By promoting a culture centered around an active, outdoor lifestyle, New Hampshire businesses can attract high-quality talent, reduce turnover, and boost overall productivity,” said ORID Director Janel Lawton.
Following the proclamation ceremony, GOA hosted a Rock City Vendor Village pop-up featuring more than 50 New Hampshire-based outdoor brands, non-profits, and supporting organizations. The full list of participating vendors from the Rock City Vendor Village can be found below.
“Rock City is our platform to celebrate the businesses and organizations that are the backbone of New Hampshire’s outdoor economy, said GOA Direct Tyler Ray “These are the brands building gear, creating jobs, and driving innovation in communities across the state. We’re proud to showcase their impact in a visible, public way—and there’s no better place to do that than downtown Manchester on Outdoor Industry Day.”
Outdoor Industry Day marks the beginning of a series of regional partner events taking place throughout the summer, all aimed at highlighting the outdoor recreation industry’s integral role in economic growth, workforce development, and community vitality.
VENDORS:
- Alzheimer's Association MA/NH Chapter
- One Earth Body Care
- One Way
- Appalachian Mountain Club
- Outdoor New England
- Ames Farm Inn
- Peter Limmer & Sons
- Badger Balm
- REI
- Beaver Brook Association
- Rek-lis Brewing Co.
- Brewers Association
- ReVision Energy
- Buena Gave
- SIX03 Endurance
- Burgeon Outdoor
- Ski New Hampshire
- Clean Energy NH
- Terracea
- Cross NH Adventure Trail
- ExploringNH
- U.S. Small Business Administration - NH
- Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce
- Highland Mountain Bike Park
- University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension
- Uvex
- League of Conservation Voters
- Wildly Responsible
- Manchester City Parks
- WZID
- Mill City Park
- Sleazy Vegan
- New Hampshire Environmental Educators
- University of New Hampshire Recreation Management & Policy
- North Country Climbing Center
- Buena Gave
- Harpoon
- Republic Brewing