GRAFTON CENTER MEETINGHOUSE MARKETPLACE
MVP is looking for the first tenant to run a general store/marketplace in the historic Grafton Center Meetinghouse!
The Request for Proposals (RFP) is now live. MVP and its store committee will start accepting proposals starting on April 30, 2026 and the RFP will remain live until a tenant is found.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please review the RFP, look around our website, and reach out with your questions. We’ll also be organizing FAQs, below.
FAQs
Why a nonprofit-owned general store?
Simply put, it’s a model that seems to work in towns that cannot easily support a general store under the traditional model of private ownership. This is an idea that’s been growing in popularity in NH and VT for over 25 years. Nonprofit ownership removes some of the capital expenses from a store operator and allows them to invest more in the business and employees. It also allows for a smoother transition between store tenants.
General stores are important “third places” in rural towns; it’s where we post information, buy groceries and lunch, convene with neighbors, and find local employment. Grafton has been missing this sense of community since 2018 when the Grafton Country Store closed for good.
When will the building be ready for the store tenant?
MVP is working hard to get all the finishing touches ready inside for an opening around September 2026.
Who is selecting the store tenant?
MVP created a store committee comprised of community members who have experience with real estate, store operations, food, outdoor recreation, and local buying habits to evaluate the proposals. The committee will then make their recommendation to the MVP board.
Are there examples of other non-profit owned stores in NH?
Yes! (And several in VT, too.) There are a handful in towns with demographics similar to Grafton. The MVP board visited several of them, and we encourage you to pay them a visit, too: