RIBBA

06/18/2026

✨ From introductions to impact — our LEAP Mentorship & Training Program participants are stepping into their next level!

During their first session, participants shared what they’re most looking forward to throughout this journey, and yesterday they put those goals into action through networking, building connections, and practicing how to confidently pitch themselves.

is creating space for our participants to grow, connect, and prepare for what’s next. We can’t wait to see how they continue to evolve! 🚀

➡️ Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis. Apply Today: ribba.org/leap-program

Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training

06/15/2026

As part of RIBBA's Learning Series, we are partnering with DEDI’s MBECO division and Bristol County Savings Bank to host an information session on Wednesday, June 17th, from 5 pm to 6:30 pm at Bristol County Savings Bank, 5 Exchange Street, Providence, RI 02903.

This event is open to all women, minority, disadvantaged, and veteran-owned businesses interested in obtaining certification.

The workshop will focus on:
🔹 Expanding opportunities for certified businesses
🔹 Connecting diverse small businesses to state procurement opportunities
🔹 Driving a more inclusive and thriving economy
🔹 Meet the MBECO team and learn how to enhance your business opportunities.

Bring your questions and discover resources to help your business grow! 🚀 Register: https://members.ribba.org/ap/Events/Register/lzF2Oo6FjC5Cw

➡️ This session is offered at no cost, but if you would like to support our programs, donations are appreciated at ribba.org/donate.

06/11/2026

📣 Business Owners! Gain visibility for your venture during RI Summer of Soccer. ⚽

More than 800,000 visitors from around the world will be coming to the Ocean State this summer. This is your chance to spotlight your business and connect with new customers as a vendor. 🌎

The PVD Fan Zone starts today, June 11 through July 19 (Apply: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdPGDJ-eVIllOXLPADC5PpwmIrDHi9tPa4ZpzEjP_vOqSN23A/viewform ) and the RI Small Business Shopping Village at Providence Place Mall is June through August. (Apply: https://bit.ly/ShoppingVillageApplication ) 🛍️

RIBBA clients and businesses who have worked with our partner organizations may be eligible for sponsorship assistance with vendor fees. Contact us with questions or if you are interested at ribba.org/contact or call 401-383-1179. 🚀

➡️Learn More: https://conta.cc/3S8x2l8

06/10/2026

✂️ Recently, the RIBBA team was happy to celebrate The Community Room and owner Samantha Vaughan on their grand opening, congratulations! 🥳

Their vibrant space in Hope Artiste Village in Pawtucket, RI is your go-to for coffee, creativity, connection, and good energy. We are proud to support your journey and can't wait to see you thrive. Here's to many amazing moments ahead! ✨️

Need business support? 🔗 Reach out to us: ribba.org/small-business-programs

06/08/2026

🚨 Reminder: The application deadline for our Young Adult Business Pitch is June 11th! Rhode Island entrepreneurs ages 18–30 — don’t miss your chance to pitch your business idea. 💡 Whether you have an established business or just an idea, this is your opportunity to connect with industry experts, gain feedback, and secure funding to bring your vision to life. 💼✨

📍 RIBBA Hub, 220 Smith St., Providence, RI
🎤 Showcase Event: Saturday, August 8, 2026

⏳ Hurry! Apply now before the deadline: ribba.org/business-pitch/apply

🚀 Calling all young entrepreneurs ages 18–30!

Apply for RIBBA's Young Adult Business Pitch Competition for a chance to pitch your business idea, connect with industry experts, and secure funding to grow your venture. 💼✨

📍 RIBBA Hub, 220 Smith St., Providence, RI
🎤 Showcase Event: Saturday, August 8, 2026
⏰ Application Deadline: Thursday, June 11th

➡️ Interested in pitching? Apply today: ribba.org/business-pitch/apply

06/05/2026

🎉 RIBBA proudly supports the grand opening of The Community Room, a new café and community space in Pawtucket! Founded by entrepreneur Samantha Vaughan, this space was launched with support from RIBBA's entrepreneurial programs, including mentorship, business advising, and startup funding.

Join us tomorrow, Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Hope Artiste Village, 1005 Main Street, for the ribbon cutting ✂ at 6:30 PM and celebrate local entrepreneurs making a difference in our community!

We’re officially opening and YOUR INVITED✨

Join me as we open the first BLACK WOMAN OWNED event space + café IN RHODE ISLAND —

The Community Room 🤍

Come celebrate the Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting (6pm), Small Bites, Curated Bar, DJ, and all the Good Vibes.

This space was built with so much intention, and I can’t wait for you to experience it 🫶🏽

🗓 Saturday, June 6th
⏰ 6–9PM
📍 Hope Artiste Village
1005 Main Street, Unit #8211
Pawtucket, RI

RSVP https://linktr.ee/thecommunityroom

Let’s celebrate something special together ✨

06/03/2026

We are excited to announce that tickets for our Annual Awards Gala are officially available! 🎉

You are invited to join us as we celebrate our "Sweet 16" and 16 years of empowering Rhode Island’s small businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals at our premier black-tie fundraising event. 🌟 Over 500 guests—including business owners, corporate leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders—will gather for an unforgettable night of networking, recognition, and giving back. 🤝

🎟 Buy Tickets: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/annual-awards-gala-5

📅 Date: Friday, August 28th, 2026
🕕 Time: 6 PM - 9:30 PM
📍 Location: Kirkbrae Country Club, Lincoln, RI

Early bird ticket sales end July 1st, be sure to secure your tickets soon! If you have any questions regarding tickets, donations, or partnerships, contact us at [email protected]. We look forward to celebrating with you. ✨

05/29/2026

As we close out Small Business Month, we're proud to celebrate another successful loan closing with one of our clients, Cristobal Rincon, founder and owner of Horizon Robotics Lab. 🎉

Cristobal shared that before connecting with RIBBA, he didn't have a clear plan for how to move his business forward. Through guidance, support, and resources from our team, he was able to create a pathway toward his goals and secure funding to continue growing his business.

The funds will be used to develop new products designed to guide and inspire individuals on their engineering journey. We're excited to see the continued impact Horizon Robotics will make!

At , we are dedicated to helping RI small businesses access the tools, knowledge, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Are you a small business owner looking for support? Visit ribba.org/small-business-programs to get started today! 🚀

05/28/2026

AFRICAN RESTAURANT WEEK IS ALMOST HERE! 🎉

We are excited to celebrate African Restaurant Week in honor of RI Summer of Soccer from June 1st–7th, 2026! Join us as we explore the rich culinary traditions of Africa while supporting the amazing local restaurants that bring culture, flavor, and community to Rhode Island. 🍽️

This is the perfect opportunity to visit, support, and discover the incredible African-owned restaurants right here in our community! Grab your friends, family, and fellow food lovers and make it a week full of great food, culture, and connection!

Participating Restaurants:
🔸Suya Joint – 320 Westminster St, Providence, RI 02903
🔸Village Restaurant – 200 Main St, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸JoRo – 114 Spruce St, Providence, RI 02903
🔸Deddeh's Kitchen – 418 Pine St, Providence, RI 02903
🔸Toyin African Restaurant – 45 Central St, Providence, RI 02907
🔸Kebbeh African Restaurant – 850 Admiral St, Providence, RI 02904
🔸Ten Rocks – 1091 Main St, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸Noobai – 434 Broadway, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸Auntie's House – 287 Pawtucket Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸Incredabowl Food Truck
🔸Tugas Restaurant – 110 Mineral Spring Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸Afrique_d_lounge – 126 Spruce Street Providence, RI 02903

🔗 Visit https://members.ribba.org/ap/Events/Register/register to learn more.

Make sure to tell them RIBBA's Rhode Island African Restaurant Week sent you when you visit! 👏