CONCORD - Governor John Lynch and the Executive Council today approved an agreement to use $750,000 in federal energy stimulus funds to create the Green Launching Pad. The partnership between the state and the University of New Hampshire will help New Hampshire companies bring clean energy products to market and create jobs for New Hampshire workers.

Governor Lynch announced the creation of the Green Launching Pad in his State of the State Address delivered last week.

"Our top priorities are helping New Hampshire businesses and citizens get back to work now and attracting the jobs of the future to New Hampshire," Governor Lynch said.

"Clean energy holds great potential for bringing new jobs to our state and there are a number of companies across New Hampshire that are already leaders in their fields. Still, other New Hampshire businesses are developing new products with tremendous promise, but they need help bringing their products to market," Governor Lynch said. "That is why we are partnering with the University of New Hampshire to help clean energy companies grow in our state. The University will put its vast expertise to work helping innovative companies grow and create jobs."

Companies will be able to apply to UNH to participate in the Green Launching Pad. 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.

"This intensive support will help to launch or expand New Hampshire companies and to create new jobs," Governor Lynch said. "We can make it possible for even more companies to create the technologies that will reduce pollution, reduce energy costs and provide new sources of energy. And we will help these companies grow and create good jobs right here in New Hampshire."