The Green Launching Pad is a partnership between the State and the University that will provide intensive support to New Hampshire companies working to bring clean new energy products to market.

"My first priority remains helping our businesses grow and create jobs. Even though we are seeing signs of recovery, we must remain vigilant and focused on helping our businesses and getting our people back to work," Gov. Lynch said.

"As we help people get back to work today, I am also focused on making sure that we are growing the jobs and companies of the future right here in New Hampshire. The ideas and the products that will be nurtured by the Green Launching Pad will help create good jobs, strengthen New Hampshire's economy for the future, and reduce harmful pollution," Gov. Lynch said.

Seventy-one businesses and entrepreneurs submitted applications to take part in the Green Launching Pad. An advisory board selected five business teams that will be supported during an intensive summer business accelerator program based in the Seacoast and aligned with UNH. Selected companies will be connected to business, science and engineering faculty to develop finance and marketing plans. The Green Launching Pad will also connect businesses with angel investors and private sector business mentors.

"The Green Launching Pad provides a new opportunity for the University of New Hampshire to partner with entrepreneurs in the emerging green economy. The entrepreneurial spirit infuses what we do at UNH, and we are excited about our part in supporting these business ventures that create new jobs and offer new ways to solve the complex environmental problems facing our state and nation," President Huddleston said.

Selected companies will be connected to business, science and engineering faculty to develop finance and marketing plans. The Green Launching Pad will also connect businesses with angel investors and private sector business mentors.

For more information, visit www.greenlaunchingpad.org.