New Report Highlights Opportunities to Strengthen Nonprofit Partnerships with New Hampshire State Agencies

The New Hampshire Center for Nonprofits has released a new report shedding light on the inefficiencies in state agency contracting with nonprofits and offering actionable recommendations for improvement. Among the key proposals are increasing the use of multi-year contracts and implementing prompt payment requirements for state agencies.

Based on responses from over 100 nonprofits across New Hampshire during the fall of 2024, the report identifies significant challenges that hinder nonprofits’ ability to deliver essential services on behalf of state agencies. Many participants highlighted that contract rates fail to keep pace with rising costs, payment delays disrupt operations, and excessive documentation requirements burden already stretched resources.

The report, Challenges in Government Grants and Contracts: Survey Insights from New Hampshire Nonprofits, outlines these systemic issues and proposes several solutions to streamline the contracting process for the benefit of state agencies, nonprofits, and the communities they serve. Key recommendations include:

• Expanding the number of multi-year contracts to ensure greater financial stability for nonprofits.
• Requiring state agencies to adhere to prompt payment policies.
• Modernizing contracting practices, such as implementing electronic payments.
• Establishing an independent third-party reviewer to address disputes and concerns related to contracting processes.

"Nonprofits play a critical role in addressing the needs of New Hampshire’s communities, and effective collaboration with state agencies is essential to ensuring those needs are met," said Kathleen Reardon, CEO of the New Hampshire Center for Nonprofits. "By working together to implement thoughtful changes, such as multi-year contracts and timely payment practices, we can strengthen these partnerships and enhance the delivery of vital services across the state."

The New Hampshire Center for Nonprofits remains committed to supporting and strengthening the state’s nonprofit sector. Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, the Center empowers nonprofits to achieve their missions and drive positive change in communities across the state. To learn more about the Center and its efforts, visit www.nhnonprofits.org or call (603) 225-1947.