New Hampshire newcomers and college students are being invited to help shape the future of the Granite State through the “2030 Vision for New Hampshire” Essay Contest, a statewide writing competition open to residents ages 18 to 39.
Whether they recently relocated to New Hampshire or are currently attending college in the state, young adults are encouraged to share their perspectives on what would make New Hampshire a great place to live, work, and build a life by the year 2030. The contest is designed to elevate fresh ideas and lived experiences from those who are choosing to start their next chapter in the Granite State.
A Unique Opportunity for New Voices
For newcomers and students, New Hampshire offers a mix of career opportunity, outdoor lifestyle, and close-knit communities. At the same time, many young residents face questions around housing affordability, job growth, transportation, and long-term community sustainability.
The “2030 Vision for New Hampshire” Essay Contest provides a platform for those voices—especially individuals who bring new perspectives from other states or who are preparing to enter the workforce after graduation.
Who Can Participate
The contest is open to:
- New Hampshire residents ages 18–39
- College students attending New Hampshire colleges or universities
- New residents who have recently moved to the state
Participants may submit one essay per person, reflecting their personal vision for New Hampshire’s future.
Essay Topic and Requirements
Entrants are asked to respond to the prompt:“What is your 2030 Vision for New Hampshire?”
Essays may focus on topics such as:
- Housing availability and affordability
- Career and internship opportunities
- Workforce development and entrepreneurship
- Community life and cultural vitality
- Education, transportation, or quality of life
Submission requirements include:
- Length: 500–750 words
- Format: PDF file
- Submission Window: January 19 through February 8, 2026
- Submission Method: Online submission via the official contest website
Full rules and instructions are available at https://www.2030visionfornh.org/.
Cash Prizes Available
The essay contest offers multiple cash awards to recognize standout submissions:
- First Prize: $1,000
- Second Prize: $500
- Third Prize: $300
- Up to 25 Honorable Mentions: $50 each
In addition to cash prizes, selected essays may be featured online, giving participants the opportunity to share their ideas with a wider audience.
Judging and Announcement Timeline
Essays will be reviewed by a panel of judges using criteria that include originality, clarity, relevance to the topic, and strength of ideas. Winners will be announced by March 24, 2026.
Why This Matters for Students and New Residents
For college students deciding where to launch their careers and newcomers evaluating whether to put down roots, the future of New Hampshire matters now. This contest encourages participants to reflect on what would make them want to stay, invest, and contribute to their communities long-term.
By gathering ideas directly from those who are newest to the state—or preparing to enter its workforce—the contest aims to highlight priorities that will shape New Hampshire over the next decade.
How to Learn More or Submit
Complete contest details, eligibility requirements, and submission instructions can be found at https://www.2030visionfornh.org/.
With meaningful cash prizes and the opportunity to influence conversations about New Hampshire’s future, the “2030 Vision for New Hampshire” Essay Contest offers newcomers and college students a chance to make their voices heard.