Rhode Island Commerce

Rhode Islanders know great food. 🍝 Home to a nearly $12 billion food economy centered around food manufacturers, dining establishments, commercial fishing and aquaculture, and research and development. That's why today we teamed up with Governor Dan McKee to announce new and existing resources for food manufacturers in Rhode Island. The event included presentations from Rhode Island Commerce, and our partners at Rhode Island Department of Health, Rhode Island Department of State - Business Services Division, RI Small Business Development Center Learn More:  https://lnkd.in/esCyZb_e

NEW: Last night, our Board of Directors voted to approve new investments in housing, venture capital, and broadband infrastructure.

Do you have the perfect business idea, but aren't sure how to get started? The Business Assistant is an interactive tool, developed in partnership with the Rhode Island Department of State, to help guide you through the ins and outs of getting your business off the ground. Take the first step to making your dream a reality with support. Get Started here: https://lnkd.in/eTQTMNsU

ICYMI: We launched a new grant program to help defray the cost of purchasing equipment or machinery for manufacturers in Rhode Island. The Manufacturing Equipment Grant reimburses eligible manufacturers up to 50% of a recent cash purchase or 50% of a down payment for a recent financed purchase, with a cap of $25,000. 📅 Apply by Thursday, March 24, 2025 For more information: To review eligibility requirements and apply: https://lnkd.in/ehwMhbjQ

⏰ There's still time: We are accepting new applications for our Main Street RI Streetscape Improvement Fund 🛣️ Grants are awarded on a competitive basis to the state’s municipalities and EDOs for projects that improve the appearance, accessibility, and overall appeal of “Main Street” areas. Projects can include: - New sidewalks - Street lighting - Landscaping - Wayfinding signage - Accessibility improvements 🗓 Apply by Friday, March 28 📩 MainStreet@commerceri.com For more information: https://lnkd.in/eJreGVcf

Did you know the Wavemaker Fellowship provides tax credits up to $6,000/year for qualified Rhode Islanders who choose to live in work in the Ocean State? The fellowship includes careers in: 🧪 Science 🖥️ Technology ⚙️ Engineering ➗ Mathematics 🎨 Design 🏥 Healthcare 🏫 Education. Learn more about this opportunity and apply here. https://lnkd.in/dBTuSJJ Applications close March 8th

Last week, Ocean Economy leaders from around the world met in Newport for the Blue Innovation Symposium. Learn more via WPRI-TV

NEW: We just launched a new workforce grant program to prepare RI students for future learning and careers in our Ocean Tech Hub industries.

It’s #NationalEntrepreneurshipWeek! Check out a few of the ways we’re working to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs that help turn big ideas into fundable businesses in Rhode Island.

Earlier this week Secretary Tanner met with Lord Dominic Johnson CBE in Boston for a roundtable discussion on economic collaboration between the US and UK involving areas such as defense, energy, AI, and advanced technology.