SBA’s 2025 New Hampshire Woman-Owned Business of the Year
Karen Jenovese ~ Swim NH, LLC ~ Concord
Celebrates Over Two Decades of Excellence in Water Safety and Lifeguard Training
Swim NH, LLC in Concord, owned and operated by Karen Jenovese, has been named New Hampshire SBA’s 2025 Woman-Owned Business of the Year. Founded in 1993, Swim NH, a leader in water safety and lifeguard training, is one of the top three providers of Red Cross Lifeguard Training in New England, offering certifications in CPR, AED, First Aid, and Water Safety Instructor training. With a weekly enrollment of over 800 students and annual lifeguard training for 300 individuals, Swim NH sets the standard for aquatic safety education.
Karen Jenovese, a native of Concord, New Hampshire, built Swim NH with a vision and mission to create safer communities through swim education. As a member of the American Red Cross Advisory Team, she helped revamp the national Lifeguard Program in 2016. Her dedication extends beyond training to advising schools and communities on swim safety and pool management.
In 2024, Swim NH achieved an important milestone, unveiling NH’s first two-lane indoor swim training facility in Concord. Funded with SBA loan programs through Merrimack County Savings Bank and a 504 loan through Capital Regional Development Council (CRDC), as well as community support, this $1 million project features a retractable enclosure enabling year-round classes. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Swim NH adapted, utilizing an SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) relief programs to continue its mission.
“Karen has never let an obstacle stop her from achieving her dreams, through hard work and perseverance epitomizing the saying "Hard Work Pays Off”. Her wealth of knowledge, generosity, and compassionate personality are hallmarks of the success of her business,” said nominator Jennifer Boulanger, Assistant Vice President of CRDC.
Karen Jenovese attributes her success to the help of others along the way, including her long-time partner Kevin, her three children, Tyler, Elden, and Angelo, two full-time staff members, Peyton and Anthony, 18 dedicated part-time staff, as well as many community members. Through their efforts, the team at Swim NH has inspired individuals to become lifeguards and CPR-certified professionals.
“Karen Jenovese’s remarkable journey with Swim NH is a testament to her vision of creating a sustainable water safety and swimming instruction business,” said Amy Bassett, NH SBA district director. “We are fortunate to be able to help many women entrepreneurs like Karen achieve their dreams. Women-owned businesses comprise nearly 40% of businesses in New Hampshire, contributing substantial revenue and employment opportunities.”