2030 Vision For NH

ESSAY CONTEST RULES

PRIZES: $1000 1st prize; $500 2nd prize; $300 3rd prize + up to 25 honorable mentions, $50

TIMING: Essays will be accepted for judging January 19 – February 8, 2026.

ENTRANTS: Entrants must be New Hampshire residents between the ages of 18-39 at the time of submission. Only one essay may be submitted per person. 

USE OF AI: AI software is great for researching what has succeeded in helping younger folks thrive in other places and for critiquing an essay you’ve written. Use its store of knowledge and its ability to hone and improve your thinking. Dig in with repeat prompts to gain better ideas and insights. But we’re seeking visions that also show an understanding of New Hampshire that could only be written by someone who lives in your town or region. Your value-add in an era of AI is what you bring to bear.

LENGTH: 500-750 words.

PROMPT: What is your “2030 Vision for New Hampshire”? We’re looking for the under-40 generations to tell us how we can make the Granite State a great place to build a life:

• The Pivot: We all know that affordability is an issue. But can you give us your unique perspective as a student, employee, parent, entrepreneur, or just as a human being? What are the causes behind this or another problem that is keeping you from thriving here? Name specific issues in your town or region; how are they impacting you or other under-40s you know? (20 pts)
• The Vision: Tell us your “moonshot.” If you could change the way we do things, what would the “New Hampshire of 2030” look like? How would that change the future of younger adults in our state? (35 pts)
• The Values: Share a personal anecdote that illustrates why you live in New Hampshire. What about your life here makes your vision for a future New Hampshire worth fighting for? (10 pts)
• The Path Forward: What’s the best way to get us to the 2030 of your vision? What would you ask of yourself and/or your fellow Granite Staters to help us get there? (35 pts)