The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire (CMNH) is excited to announce plans for an expansion of the second floor, which will add two new exhibits and better prepare the Museum to serve children and families in the future. Fundraising for the $420,000 expansion launched this spring, when the Museum was awarded $175,000 in Tax Credits from the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA). 

Multiple businesses from the community have stepped forward in recent months to support this expansion through purchasing tax credits, including the JGroup (The Sailmaker’s House, Vida Cantina, 106 Grill, White Heron Tea, Bibimbap, Jumpin’ Jay’s Fish Café, GC Fine Foods, Cemita, The Franklin, Dos Amigos Burritos, Liars Bench and Railpenny Tavern), ReVision Energy, Chinburg Builders, Inc., Leone, McDonnell & Roberts P.A., Meredith Village Savings Bank, Grappone Automotive Group, First Seacoast Bank, Piscataqua Savings Bank, Nathan Wechsler & Company, P.A., Newburyport Bank, Eastern Propane & Oil and Stinson Associates, CPA.

“We deeply appreciate the support from each and every business that has purchased Tax Credits this year to support the facility expansion,” said Jane Bard, Museum President. “This project is in response to feedback from our visitors and will provide more of what families are saying they need from the Museum today. These companies understand that and are making a direct investment in our local community.”

The additional 1,000 sq ft will include a farm-themed exhibit designed for visitors ages birth through five, plus a second, flexible exhibit that changes multiple times a year providing new experiences and offering opportunities for active play and creative movement. The ongoing shortage of childcare and preschool openings continues to challenge families with young children who are seeking in-person socialization and learning experiences. This additional space will enable the Museum to expand our current drop-in programs, playgroups, community events and more.

Businesses paying New Hampshire state taxes that are interested in purchasing tax credits to support this expansion project are encouraged to contact Monique Deforge, Director of Development & Community Engagement, monique@childrens-museum.org.  Individuals who would like to learn more or make a donation to the project can visit www.childrens-museum.org. The Museum anticipates opening the new space in late 2025.