The Center for Ethics in Society, in collaboration with the Business & Industry Association of New Hampshire (BIA), recently released the results of the 2024 Business Leader Survey, shedding light on the top concerns facing the state's business leaders. The survey, which gathered responses from over 500 business owners and executives representing companies of all sizes and industries across New Hampshire, reveals a landscape of pressing issues affecting employers statewide.
Over 90% of respondents expect their businesses to grow or stay stable in the next year. However, concerns about cybersecurity, childcare, housing, workforce shortages, and rising costs are critical factors to consider.
A key takeaway from the survey is the widespread concern about affordable housing, with 86% of business leaders citing it as their top public policy issue. The shortage of affordable housing in New Hampshire has become a significant obstacle, preventing businesses from recruiting and retaining employees, particularly in high-demand industries.
Overall, respondents expressed that the business climate in the Granite State is favorable, but there is room for improvement. While only 29% of respondents felt it was difficult to do business with state and local governments, 46% disagreed, highlighting a favorable view of government transparency and accessibility.
"The college is excited to partner with the BIA on the first survey of its kind conducted in recent years,” said Max Latona, who spearheaded the survey for the Center. “It has provided extremely valuable feedback from business leaders on key policy issues in our state. We believe the survey will be incredibly useful over the next year in guiding elected officials, and we look forward to continuing this initiative in the years to come."
“New Hampshire is a wonderful place to live, learn, work, play and raise a family,” said Michael Skelton, president at CEO of the BIA. “We’re blessed with natural beauty and fortunate to have a solid foundation to truly make New Hampshire a top state for business.”
Key findings of the survey are detailed on the Center’s website. For a full copy of the survey results please email ethics@anselm.edu.