RIBBA RIBBA's services and programs are open to all Rhode Islanders. We are here to help! Membership is open to the public.

RIBBA is a non-profit organization committed to closing the wealth gap in RI by empowering all residents to thrive and fostering opportunities for future generations. RIBBA is a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to advancing vitality of businesses and career professionals in Rhode Island through contracting, business development resources, entrepreneur training, business advocacy, financ

ial empowerment, workforce development and access to capital. RIBBA is made up of individuals and businesses of all sizes, backgrounds, and ethnicities. The organization strives to build a purpose-driven Association where people unite and take actions to create lasting change. RIBBA values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people of all backgrounds, regardless of ethnicity, race, gender, abilities, socioeconomic status, culture, sexual orientation, and gender identity. RIBBA leverages the region’s core assets to find solutions in the area that matter most to its members and the underserved community: contract opportunities, wealth generation, access to capital, quality jobs, growth and quality of life.

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! 🚀

AFRICAN RESTAURANT WEEK IS ALMOST HERE! 🎉We are excited to celebrate African Restaurant Week in honor of RI Summer of So...
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
🔸The Village – 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
🔸10 Rocks Tapas – 1091 Main St, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸Noobai – 434 Broadway, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸Auntie's House – 287 Pawtucket Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860
🔸Incredibowl – Food Truck
🔸Tugas – 110 Mineral Spring Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860

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

Tag the restaurant you’re most excited to visit below 👇

You are Invited to Rhode Island African Restaurant Week! 🎉Celebrate the RI Summer of Soccer from June 1st to 7th, 2026! ...
05/22/2026

You are Invited to Rhode Island African Restaurant Week! 🎉

Celebrate the RI Summer of Soccer from June 1st to 7th, 2026! Join us in exploring the rich culinary traditions of Africa and supporting local businesses. Experience vibrant flavors, culture, and community while celebrating this exciting global event! ⚽

🔗 Register to learn more and receive updates on participating restaurants: ribba.org/subscribe

Stay tuned for more information coming soon!

This week, we proudly launched our LEAP Mentorship & Training Program! 🎉Ten young leaders are now on a   to gain essenti...
05/21/2026

This week, we proudly launched our LEAP Mentorship & Training Program! 🎉

Ten young leaders are now on a to gain essential tools, guidance, and confidence to elevate their careers and set the stage for future success. ✨

Our first session, led by Sterling Spellman and Renzo Arteta from Leadership Rhode Island, introduced participants to CliftonStrengths and explored how individual strengths can drive success in professional settings, everyday life, and academics. 💼

Early career development is crucial for building a strong foundation for long-term achievement. This cohort-based program is designed to empower young talent with the skills, mentorship, and resources to navigate challenges and unlock new opportunities. 💪

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

Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training

All are invited to join us tomorrow, Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Rhode Island State House Library for the ...
05/20/2026

All are invited to join us tomorrow, Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 3:00 PM at the Rhode Island State House Library for the RI Voter Rights Act Lobby Day with Common Cause Rhode Island and 20+ community organizations.

The Rhode Island Voting Rights Act (HB-8334 & SB-3143) protects:
🔵 Equal voting rights for all
🔵 The freedom to vote without harassment or intimidation
🔵 Fair representation for communities of color during redistricting
🔵 The right to challenge discriminatory voting practices

Stand with us for fair and accessible voting rights in Rhode Island. 🤝

➡️ RSVP: https://act.commoncause.org/events/lobby-day-for-the-rhode-island-voting-rights-act

On Thursday, as part of our Learning Series, we hosted our "How to Start a Food Business" workshop for Rhode Island   re...
05/18/2026

On Thursday, as part of our Learning Series, we hosted our "How to Start a Food Business" workshop for Rhode Island ready to launch or grow their food ventures. 🍴

✨ Led by Martha Perez-Barton, Director of Incubation at Hope & Main, the session provided a space for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs to ask questions, connect with like-minded individuals, and gain valuable insights into the food industry and resources available to them. Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Are you a business owner ready to take the next step? Or have an idea but don’t know where to start? 👉 Visit ribba.org/small-business-programs or stop by the Hub to learn more. 🚀

🍽️ In honor of Small Business Month, join us for an evening designed to support Rhode Island food entrepreneurs and busi...
05/12/2026

🍽️ In honor of Small Business Month, join us for an evening designed to support Rhode Island food entrepreneurs and business owners at RIBBA's Learning Series: What Does It Take to Start a Food Business? in-person session.

📅 Thursday, May 14th
🕠 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 RIBBA's Hub | 220 Smith Street, Providence, RI 02908

Presented by Martha Perez-Barton, Director of Incubation at Hope & Main.

Whether you are just starting out, looking to grow, expand, or revive your food business, this event is for you. No matter where you are in your journey.

➡️ Register: https://members.ribba.org/ap/Events/Register/lzF241lsjC5Cw

✅ Free resources
✅ Learn & ask questions
✅ Connect with fellow entrepreneurs
✅ Discover support for your business success

All services are offered free of charge. We look forward to seeing you there!

🚀 Calling all young entrepreneurs ages 18–30!Apply for RIBBA's Young Adult Business Pitch Competition for a chance to pi...
05/08/2026

🚀 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

Address

220 Smith Street
Providence, RI
02908

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

(401) 383-1179

Website

https://ribba.org/connect

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