CONCORD, NH— Young adults (under age 40) across New Hampshire are being invited to share their ideas, perspectives, and hopes for the future through the “2030 Vision for New Hampshire” Essay Contest, a statewide writing competition open to residents ages 18 to 39. The contest encourages participants to reflect on what New Hampshire should look like by the year 2030 and how the state can remain a great place to live, work, and build a life.
Submissions may explore topics such as housing affordability, economic opportunity, community development, education, workforce growth, quality of life, or other issues important to the next generation of Granite Staters.
The submission period has opened and closes February 8, 2026. Essays must be 500 to 750 words and submitted as a PDF file through the official contest website. Cash prizes will be awarded, including:
- First Prize: $1,000
- Second Prize: $500
- Third Prize: $300
- Up to 25 Honorable Mentions: $50 each
“This contest is about giving younger residents a platform to share their vision for New Hampshire’s future,” said a contest representative. “The ideas and experiences of people under 40 are critical to shaping what the state becomes over the next decade.” Entries will be reviewed, and winners will be announced by March 24, 2026. Selected essays may also be featured on the contest website and shared more broadly to highlight emerging ideas and perspectives from across the state.
Full contest rules, eligibility requirements, and submission instructions are available here.