WELCOME TO NEW HAMPSHIRE!

Granite State Ambassadors are "New Hampshire’s Information Specialists”. If there is something you would like to know, please ask us we will be happy to find the answer!

Granite State Ambassadors, Inc. adds value to state agencies, local businesses, and individuals through a training and service support network that sustains and enhances the New Hampshire experience.  Over the past decade we have worked tirelessly to promote and protect our sense of place by valuing both built and natural environments, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being our residents and guests alike.  As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization, we serve hundreds of travel and tourism related businesses including  key partners, Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and the NH Division of Travel and Tourism Development. 

The Community Impact of GSA, Inc.

Twelve years ago, Granite State Ambassadors, Inc. was founded on the simple idea that when visitors got off the plane in Manchester, New Hampshire, a friendly, New Hampshire "information specialist" would be there to provide answers to the questions that get asked. 

Since 1996, GSA has certified over 900 Ambassadors who have provided over $2.7 million in hospitality value through 150,000 hours of volunteer service at welcome/information centers. 

This year 472 active Granite State Ambassadors are encouraging guests to visit New Hampshire restaurants, hotels and attractions as they greet visitors at welcome centers around the state, including the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, the Concord Welcome Center, Discover Portsmouth Center and 13 other locations.

Granite State Ambassadors personally greeted 8 million of the 34 million visitors New Hampshire welcomed last year; and served an estimated 840,000 guests at the New Hampshire Building at the September 2008 Eastern States Exposition ("The Big E"). 
 

Awards Received

2007 - "Governor's Commendation"
For 10 Years of Service to New Hampshire
Awarded by NH Resoursce & Economic Development Commissioner George Bald for Governor John Lynch

2004 - “NH Business of the Year”
Tourism/Hospitality
Awarded by Business NH Magazine and the NH Association of Chambers of Commerce Executives

2004 - “Granite Pineapple Industry Leader”
Awarded to Bill Petersen, GSA President
by Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce for his tourism leadership in the city of Manchester

2003 - “Most Valuable Volunteer (s)”
National Award - Nominated by NH Lodging & Restaurant Association
Awarded by American Hotel & Lodging Association

2003 - “Yankee Barn Raiser”
Awarded to Bill Petersen, GSA President
by Yankee Magazine for his service as president of GSA, Inc. and to the state of New Hampshire

2000 - “Very Best Volunteers In NH”
Awarded by NH Magazine and
Voted by the residents of New Hampshire

1997 - “Tourism Person of the Year”
Awarded to Judi Window, GSA Managing Director
by the NH Travel Council for development of the Granite State Ambassadors Program