The 2025 Governor’s Arts Awards, administered by the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, recognizes exceptional contributions by individuals, organizations, and communities to the cultural life of New Hampshire. This honor-based program seeks to celebrate those who have significantly enhanced the state’s arts and culture landscape, often through unselfish and impactful work that strengthens the state’s creative community.

Nominations for the Governor’s Arts Awards may be submitted by individuals, groups, businesses, or organizations. The awards are designed to acknowledge various types of achievements in the arts, whether through creative output, organizational leadership, community engagement, or cultural programming. The awards are open to those who have made outstanding contributions in promoting the arts and enriching New Hampshire’s cultural environment.

All nominations must be submitted by May 2, 2025. A downloadable PDF containing the official nomination guidelines is available on the program’s website, along with a video tutorial that provides step-by-step instructions on how to complete the nomination process. The guidelines outline the format for submission and the information required about the nominee and nominator.

Although there is no monetary grant or award amount associated with the Governor’s Arts Awards, the recognition itself serves as a prestigious public acknowledgment by the state’s governor and the cultural affairs office. Awardees are celebrated for their service, dedication, and influence in fostering the arts within New Hampshire communities.

For those requiring accessibility accommodations or alternate formats, contact Emily Killinger via email at Emily.R.Killinger@dncr.nh.gov or by phone at (603) 271-0790. Additional information about the New Hampshire Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and other related arts initiatives can be found on the agency’s website.