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Mission and History

The BIA is the unifying voice of business, championing a competitive business climate and prosperous economic future for New Hampshire.

In 1913, a group of manufacturers concerned about current legislation and government intervention and regulation of business, formed the New Hampshire Manufacturers' Association. In 1970, the organization changed its name to the Business and Industry Association to reflect its diverse membership. However, BIA remains the New Hampshire affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers.

Today, BIA represents nearly 400 member companies in a variety of industries, including:

Manufacturing
High Technology
Software
Professional Services
Financial Services
Health Care
Public Utilities
Hospitality & Tourism
Higher Education
Insurance

Member firms employ over 100,000 people throughout the state, which represents one in seven jobs, and contribute $5 billion annually to the state's economy.

BIA represents companies of all sizes in every region of the state:

%
of BIA member companies employ 10 or fewer employees
%
employ 50 or fewer
%
employ 100 or fewer
%
employ 500 or fewer
%
employ more than 500
%
of BIA members have a payroll of less than $3 million

Policy Committee

BIA has four policy committees that meet monthly to discuss and react to issues and legislation of concern to members:

  • Economic Development & Fiscal Policy
  • Human Resources, Healthcare and Workforce Development
  • Manufacturing & End Users
  • Technology