RIEDC

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News - RIEDC

• Rhode Island Science & Technology Advisory Council Announces Appointments

  06/14/2013 - 12:23

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee appoints three new members and Senate President Teresa Paiva Weed appoints one new member to STAC.

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Announces Six Teams to Share $810,000 in 2013 Collaborative Research Grant Awards

  06/13/2013 - 12:08

  Focused on Rhode Island’s unique ocean assets, Governor Chafee recognized 18 scientists from five research institutions, whose work in marine biology will preserve the state’s waters for the future.

• URI scientists, with GreenFins, developing techniques to launch tuna aquaculture industry

  05/24/2013 - 13:23

  The RIEDC has been working with GreenFins, LLC, since its inception three years ago and brokered the relationship between the company and University of Rhode Island scientists.

• Marcel A. Valois, Governor Chafee’s Nominee to Lead RIEDC, Unanimously Confirmed by Rhode Island Senate

  05/22/2013 - 08:59

  Valois brings a broad range of management experience in the private, public and non-profit sectors.

• Rhode Island Manufacturing Renaissance Project Releases Initial Findings of ‘Manufacturing 1000’ Survey

  05/21/2013 - 15:31

  The vast majority of companies are looking to expand their workforce in next two or three years. The accompanying report provides recommendations for manufacturing renewal and growth.

• RIEDC Board Approves FY 2012 Annual Performance Report with FY 2013 Highlights

  05/21/2013 - 09:59

  Under Governor Chafee’s leadership, the report reveals a refocused and re-energized agency positioned to help Rhode Island businesses grow and succeed.

• RIEDC Board Approves $78,170 in Renewable Energy Funding

  05/21/2013 - 09:51

  Rhode Island Department of Education and Narragansett Bay Commission receive Renewable Energy Fund awards for solar energy projects.

• Local firm selected to create statewide plans as part of Sustainable Communities Initiative

  04/24/2013 - 11:26

  Governor Chafee announces the next action step in the development of an integrated plan to mobilize state and community assets for a better Rhode Island.

• Governor Chafee, RIDOT announce transfer of former I-195 land for development

  04/24/2013 - 10:14

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) today announced the completion of the land transfer process between the State and the I-195 Redevelopment Commission. The transfer will provide $38.4 million to be used to fund the remaining contracts of the Iway (I-195 Relocation) Project and will pave the way for redevelopment of 27 acres of property in the heart of Providence.

• RIEDC Board approves more than $184,000 in Renewable Energy grants to seven companies

  04/23/2013 - 09:06

  Renewable Energy Fund grants will support the renewable energy industry with the installation of solar energy systems that contribute to greener homes and businesses.

• Governor Chafee names three nominees for the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation board

  04/11/2013 - 12:30

  The nominees reflect Governor Chafee’s commitment to having key Rhode Island industries represented on the RIEDC board.

• RIEDC tourism manager honored by NTA as Volunteer of the Year

  04/09/2013 - 15:37

  Katrina White was named as Volunteer of the Year by the National Tour Association, leading association for travel professionals, for her outstanding contributions to the travel industry.

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee nominates Marcel A. Valois to lead the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation

  04/08/2013 - 12:22

  Valois brings a broad range of management experience in the private, public and non-profit sectors to the RIEDC.

• Small Business Loan Fund Corporation reduces interest rate to help Rhode Island businesses grow and succeed

  04/04/2013 - 11:01

  The SBLFC reduces its interest rate to 5.75 percent for small business loans.

• Governor Chafee names five nominees for the R.I. Economic Development Corporation Board

  03/07/2013 - 16:17

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today announced five nominees for the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Board of Directors: Shannon Brawley, Dr. Nancy Carriuolo, Roland Fiore, Jason Kelly and George Nee.

• Governor Chafee joins Sustainable Rhode Island Consortium

  02/20/2013 - 15:27

  Reports released on state's economic development data and conditions of social equality. Data gathering and analysis is a critical action step in the development of an integrated plan to mobilize state and community assets for a better Rhode Island.

• William J. Parsons withdraws from consideration as RIEDC Executive Director

  02/14/2013 - 15:31

  Citing recent health issues, William J. Parsons, the longtime Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) official whom Governor Chafee had nominated to lead the agency, today asked the Governor to be withdrawn from consideration for that position.

• Governor Chafee, State Leadership, Sail Newport and Volvo Ocean Race CEO announce Newport stop for 2014 – 2015 race

  02/06/2013 - 10:24

  Public and private collaboration continues to help secure world-class sailing event in Rhode Island.

• RIEDC releases Large Marine Events Benefits Assessment Report

  02/01/2013 - 11:43

  Planning Decisions, Inc. and Charles Colgan, Ph.D., University of Southern Maine, deliver positive and constructive report on America’s Cup event to the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation.

• Governor Chafee, Mayor Avedisian and key partners announce next steps in developing Warwick Station

  01/31/2013 - 11:41

  The BETA Group, Inc., and (add)ventures selected to conduct market analysis and develop marketing plan for the 95-acre, mixed-use development connecting airport, train, bus and car rental services along I-95.

• Public-private collaboration results in valuable business database

  01/30/2013 - 15:48

  The RIEDC and RIPEC, along with the Rhode Island Senate and Rhode Island House of Representatives, joined resources to build a legislative database as a resource for the state’s businesses.

• Gov. Chafee announces RI Higher Education Research Collaborative

  01/15/2013 - 13:18

  Partnership to leverage higher education resources to produce research supporting strategic economic development policy.

• Gov. Chafee announces new Transparency & Accountability Initiative

  01/15/2013 - 13:10

  In his continuing efforts to promote open and honest government in the State of Rhode Island, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today announced a new Transparency and Accountability Initiative. The goal of the Initiative is to provide the public with an increased level of information regarding the operation and management of government, as well as ensuring the most efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

• Governor Chafee, RIEDC, Acting on RIPEC Recommendation, Announce John R. Pagliarini as RIEDC Chief of Staff

  12/18/2012 - 16:26

  Following the recommendations of the Rhode Island Public Expenditure Council (RIPEC) and others to form stronger ties between the Governor’s office and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and RIEDC Managing Director of Business & Community Development William Parsons announced today that John R. (J.R.) Pagliarini has been appointed as the agency’s Chief of Staff. Pagliarini brings nearly 30 years of experience in strategic planning, organizational development, government relations, policy development, marketing communications, program evaluation and performance management. The new role was developed to establish a liaison between the Governor and the agency with the long-term objective of making the RIEDC as effective as possible in its mission to help existing Rhode Island businesses grow. The selection came after discussions and interviews with potential candidates.

• Rhode Island Showcases Economic Assets to Visiting Group of National Site Location Consultants

  06/29/2012 - 11:19

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation concluded a two-day, state-wide familiarization tour this week for key site location consultants from across the country.  The tour was organized by the RIEDC in partnership with the Governor’s Office, area mayors, municipalities, Chambers of Commerce, state agencies, and businesses. 

• Governor Chafee, RIEDC Board Support Infrastructure Development and Growth for the I-195 Commission and Quonset/Davisville

  06/25/2012 - 11:29

  With infrastructure development as a key driver of economic development and job growth, RIEDC Chairperson Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and the Board of Directors approved up to $42 million in a bond for the purchase and development of the I-195 surplus land to act as a catalyst for knowledge-based industries and jobs.

• Governor Chafee Announces $1.4 Million in Research Grants to Foster Business Development and Innovation

  05/10/2012 - 09:37

  With the goal to encourage entrepreneurship and new company creation by bringing new technologies and discoveries into the marketplace, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and the Rhode Island Science & Technology Advisory Council (STAC) today announced the recipients of the 2012 Rhode Island Research Alliance Collaborative Research Grants.

• Governor Chafee and Federal Delegation Announce Grant Funds to Help Keep Manufacturing Company in Rhode Island

  05/08/2012 - 14:45

  In 2011, Rhode Island was awarded $13.1 million in federal funds to help finance small businesses through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). Today, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representative David Cicilline joined local officials, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), company management and employees to celebrate SSBCI financing which helped keep North Smithfield-based National Marker Company (NMC) and 58 manufacturing jobs in Rhode Island. The company recently received a $250,000 SSBCI loan through the RIEDC’s Small Business Loan Fund.

• Governor Chafee and the RIEDC Board Move to Provide Better Access to Capital and Improve Regulatory Processes for Businesses

  03/27/2012 - 09:19

  Focusing on two key job growth priorities, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Board of Directors, led by Governor Lincoln D. Chafee, today voted to adopt focused yet flexible work plans aimed at helping Rhode Island businesses gain better access to financing and streamlining state and local regulatory processes to save companies time and money.

• Governor Lincoln Chafee Announces Finalized Agreements with SBLF, BetaSpring and Slater Technology

  02/28/2012 - 17:14

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Executive Director Keith Stokes today announced that the RIEDC has finalized Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with the Small Business Loan Fund Corporation, BetaSpring and Slater Technology Fund to deploy the first tranche of the $13.1 million in federal grant funds Rhode Island has been awarded through the U.S. Treasury Department’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI).

• Governor Chafee, State Officials Join Business Community to Celebrate Groundbreaking of Wide World of Indoor Sports Complex

  02/16/2012 - 16:11

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee joined with state officials and local business leaders today to celebrated the beginning of construction of a new Wide World of Indoor Sports facility in the Quonset Business Park in North Kingstown, RI. The new multi-use health and wellness sports complex is expected to create approximately 85 new full- and part-time jobs when completed.

• RIEDC Board Approves Loan to Help Energy Technology Company Relocate to Rhode Island

  02/07/2012 - 10:13

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors today approved a $500,000 Renewable Energy Fund (REF) loan to provide Spokane, Wash.-based Utilidata, Inc. with the flexible growth capital the energy technology company needs to continue to expand and to secure its relocation to Rhode Island.

• Governor Lincoln Chafee Announces $250,000 Grant for 195 Redevelopment Commission to Expedite Next Phase of Work

  01/24/2012 - 10:40

  Governor Lincoln Chafee announced today that he is making a $250,000 grant available to the 195 Redevelopment Commission through the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation. The grant will provide the Commission with the necessary operating funds to begin the next stages of its work, including engineering planning and environmental impact analysis.

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Hosts Community Business Outreach Forums in Pawtucket, West Warwick, and Cranston

  01/17/2012 - 11:43

  In his continuing effort to address the fiscal challenges of Rhode Island’s cities and towns and revitalize Rhode Island’s economy, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee hosted three packed community forums this week in Pawtucket, West Warwick, and Cranston to hear from dozens of local small business owners and discuss ways to help them succeed, grow the economy, and create jobs for Rhode Islanders.

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Announces America’s Cup World Series Host Committee

  01/16/2012 - 21:04

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today announced the thirty-eight members of the America’s Cup World Series Host Committee. The Committee, established when Governor Chafee signed Executive Order 11-11 last month, will coordinate Rhode Island’s efforts to ensure a successful event. Brad Read, Executive Director of Sail Newport, will serve as Chairman.

• Chafee Administration Delegation to Get First-Hand Look at America’s Cup World Series Event in San Diego

  11/15/2011 - 16:12

  Rhode Island officials will be traveling to San Diego, CA this week to gain a first-hand perspective on what the state will need to do to prepare for hosting the final stop of the new America’s Cup World Series taking place in Newport from June 23 to July 1, 2012.

• Senator Dennis L. Algiere and the RIEDC Celebrate the Start of the Westerly-Pawcatuck YMCA Branch Renovation Project

  10/28/2011 - 10:58

  Senator Dennis L. Algiere, the RIEDC Managing Director of Finance Earl Queenan, Ocean Community YMCA President/CEO Maureen Fitzgerald and other key stakeholders joined together today to celebrate the start of the Westerly-Pawcatuck YMCA branch renovation project.

• Governor Chafee and RIEDC Executive Director Keith Stokes Announce $2.7 Million in Renewable Energy Grants

  10/27/2011 - 09:35

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Keith Stokes today announced $2.7 million in new grants through the RIEDC’s Renewable Energy Fund (REF) that will help accelerate 16 renewable energy projects with combined private and public investments totaling $5.7 million. 

• RIEDC Board Approves Financing to Help Rhode Island Technology Company Expand and Create 45 New Jobs

  10/24/2011 - 21:11

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Board of Directors today approved financing that will help an established, knowledge- and technology-driven small business continue to grow and create high-wage jobs in Rhode Island.

• RIEDC Receives Five Awards for Marketing and Promotion Excellence from Northeastern Economic Developers Association

  10/24/2011 - 15:31

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced that the agency has received five awards for marketing and promotional excellence from the Northeastern Economic Developers Association’s (NEDA). This is the fourth consecutive year that the RIEDC has been recognized for its marketing and promotions efforts.

• Governor Chafee, Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation and Community Leaders Announce $13.1 Million in New Investment Capital

  10/04/2011 - 09:32

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee joined U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representative David Cicilline, Pawtucket Mayor Donald Grebien and Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Executive Director Keith Stokes today to announce that Rhode Island has been awarded $13.1 million in federal funds to help finance small businesses through the U.S. Treasury Department’s State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). The program was established by the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 and will provide much needed new capital to Rhode Island small businesses and entrepreneurs to help them grow and create quality jobs in the state.

• STAC Announces URI’s Peter Alfonso as New Co-Chair, Amgen Executive Anthony Pankau as New Council Addition

  09/19/2011 - 16:03

  The Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC or Council) announced two changes to Council membership at their September meeting today, discussed trends in federal research and development funding and received an update from a 2010 STAC grant recipient.

• RIEDC Announces Paul Harden as Executive Director of America’s Cup Rhode Island 2012

  09/15/2011 - 09:30

  Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Executive Director Keith Stokes today announced that he has named Paul C. Harden as Executive Director of the America’s Cup Rhode Island 2012.

• Secretary of State Mollis and the R.I. Economic Development Corporation Team Up to Cut Red Tape for Small Business

  09/07/2011 - 03:00

  The two state agencies charged with making it easier to do business in Rhode Island are offering companies a unique opportunity to talk face-to-face with federal, state and local government officials.

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Announces $500,000 RIEDC Loan Fund to Support Local Businesses Affected by Tropical Storm Irene

  09/01/2011 - 09:23

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced today the establishment of a $500,000 loan fund to assist Rhode Island businesses that have been affected by Tropical Storm Irene. The loans are being made available through the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s (RIEDC) Small Business Loan Fund.

• Governor Chafee, Legislative Leaders Join with Toray Plastics CEO to Announce $11.5-Million, 28-Job Expansion in Rhode Island

  08/25/2011 - 11:57

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today joined with House Speaker Gordon Fox, Senate President Paiva Weed, Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Executive Director Keith Stokes, and Toray Plastics President and CEO Richard R. Schloesser to announce and celebrate the company’s planned $11.5-million expansion in Rhode Island, which will create 28 new jobs in the state.

• RIEDC Announces Request for Proposals for Renewable Energy Projects to be Funded Through the Agency’s Renewable Energy Fund

  08/25/2011 - 10:53

  The RIEDC announced an RFP for the development of non-utility scale renewable energy projects in Rhode Island. The projects will be supported by $2.5 million in federal stimulus funds to be disbursed by the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources through the state’s ARRA-State Energy Program and managed by the RIEDC’s Renewable Energy Fund.

• RIEDC Board Approves Renewable Energy and Small Business Financing to Help Lower Costs and Expand State’s Knowledge Economy

  08/23/2011 - 09:20

  The RIEDC Board of Directors approved two projects that will help leading advanced manufacturers reduce their utility costs and provide a growing knowledge-based small business with financing.

• Governor Chafee Announce Partnership Between RI Office of Energy Resources and RIEDC to Deploy $6.5 Million in Federal Funding

  08/18/2011 - 09:33

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced today that a total of $6.5 million in federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds will be used to further the state’s leadership in advancing renewable energy development and to support energy efficiency programs to help businesses operate more cost effectively.

• RIEDC Announces Resumption of Job Creation Guaranty Program after Board Approval of Changes Proposed by Governor Chafee

  08/17/2011 - 13:08

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced today that it has resumed the state’s Job Creation Guaranty Program.

• Governor Chafee Joins Race Officials to Announce America’s Cup World Series to be Held in Newport, RI

  08/15/2011 - 09:22

  Joined by America’s Cup officials, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced that Newport will be the final stop of the 2011-2012 AC World Series, which promises to be a dramatic finish to the first season of the new AC45 professional circuit. The nine-day event will take place June 23 – July 1, 2012 with multiple international race teams to be based at Fort Adams State Park.

• RIEDC Board Approves Bond Financing Aimed at Creating 38 New Jobs and Expanding Community-based YMCA Programs

  07/26/2011 - 09:18

  The RIEDC Board of Directors today gave final approval to bond financing aimed at creating 38 new full-time jobs and expanding community-based YMCA programs in Rhode Island. The RIEDC will issue of up to $5 million in tax-exempt bonds to help finance the construction of a new year-round, indoor facility at the YMCA of Pawtucket’s (YMCA) MacColl field site in Lincoln, RI. The RIEDC Board granted preliminary approval to the project this past April.

• Governor Chafee Joins Hasbro, Mayor Taveras, Legislative Leaders to Announce Company’s Job-Generating Expansion in Providence

  07/18/2011 - 20:14

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Joins Hasbro, Mayor Taveras, Legislative Leaders to announce and celebrate the company’s job-generating expansion in Providence. Hasbro’s expansion at 15 LaSalle Square will bolster the city’s growing knowledge economy and create 284 new jobs.

• RIEDC Small Business Loan Fund Approves $2.4 million in Loans to Rhode Island Companies

  07/14/2011 - 14:24

  Ten Rhode Island small businesses recently received approval for $2.4 million in financing through the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s (RIEDC) Small Business Loan Fund. The funding is expected to create and sustain nearly 200 jobs in Rhode Island.

• Rhode Island's Continued Economic Transformation through Strategic Investments and Collaborations Top June STAC Meeting Agenda

  06/09/2011 - 09:10

  As part of Governor Chafee’s focus on best practices in science and technology-based economic development, the recent meeting of the Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council featured a look at the revitalization of Pittsburgh, Pa. as an example of how a region can rejuvenate its economy after the decline of a traditional industrial base.

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee to Lead Rhode Island Economic Trade Mission to Israel in November

  06/06/2011 - 13:22

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced that he will lead an official Rhode Island economic trade mission to Israel in November, the first Rhode Island business mission to that country in recent memory.

• Governor Chafee, RI Tourism Honor Individuals and Organizations that Positively Impact State's Tourism Industry

  05/11/2011 - 09:33

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, the Rhode Island Tourism Division and other state tourism leaders today honored individuals and organizations throughout Rhode Island at the 26th Anniversary Tourism Unity Luncheon and Travel Exchange. All honorees were chosen based on their collaboration and partnership, which has positively impacted the Rhode Island tourism industry.

• Governor Chafee Visits with Small Businesses in Providence to Discuss Their Needs and Focus on ‘Main Street’ Development

  04/26/2011 - 09:37

  In an ongoing series of visits with small businesses in the state’s urban core communities, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and Keith Stokes, Executive Director of the RIEDC, joined Mayor Angel Taveras and State Representative Grace Diaz this morning to meet with a number of business owners on Broad Street in Providence.

• Governor Chafee Announces Approval of Program to Aid Expansion of Hasbro and Creation of 284 Jobs in Rhode Island

  04/26/2011 - 09:32

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors today approved a measure aimed at helping one of the state’s key employers create at least 284 full-time jobs in Rhode Island as part of an estimated $24 million expansion plan.

• RIEDC Board Approves Governor Chafee’s Changes to Job Creation Guaranty Program

  04/26/2011 - 09:24

  The RIEDC Board of Directors today approved new rules and regulations for the state’s Job Creation Guaranty Program that will provide greater access to capital and credit for small businesses in the state. The Board also approved financing measures for two projects aimed at expanding community YMCA programs and growing Rhode Island’s Green Economy.

• Governor Lincoln Chafee and RIEDC Executive Director Keith Stokes Announce Company Relocation

  04/20/2011 - 03:00

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Keith Stokes joined company management and other officials today to announce the relocation of Yardney Technical Products, Inc. from Pawcatuck, Conn. to East Greenwich, Rhode Island. The move will bring at least 165 advanced manufacturing jobs to the state. 

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Announces RIEDC Funding for East Providence Solar Farm Project

  03/29/2011 - 15:01

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced that the RIEDC has approved a grant to fund a sizeable portion of predevelopment expenses for the City of East Providence’s proposed 10 to 15 megawatt solar farm at the site of the former Forbes Street landfill.

• RIEDC Board Approves Measures to Expand Green Economy, Increase Energy Cost Savings for Local Small Business and City Government

  03/28/2011 - 22:50

  The RIEDC Board of Directors today approved two Renewable Energy Fund (REF) financing awards totaling $325,310.

• RIEDC Board Approves Measure Aimed at Creating 164 Full-Time Financial Services Jobs

  02/28/2011 - 11:09

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors approved a measure on Thursday aimed at creating at least 164 new full-time financial services jobs in the state.

• Governor Chafee’s Choice for Next RIEDC Board Vice-Chair, Helena Foulkes, Outlines Administration’s Economic Development Focus

  02/25/2011 - 13:18

  As one of the Governor’s five key economic development priorities, a strategic plan to grow Rhode Island’s tourism industry also topped the RIEDC Board meeting agenda.

• First Major Step Taken in Digital Infrastructure Build-Out Efforts in Rhode Island, Across Nation

  02/17/2011 - 16:41

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation today announced that its Broadband Rhode Island (BBRI) initiative has achieved its first major step as part of a national effort to expand the availability and use of high-speed Internet service in the state and across the country. 

• Governor Chafee Will Lead a Delegation to Houston, Texas - Explore City’s Medical & Life-Sciences Hub as Model for Providence

  02/15/2011 - 16:55

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced plans to travel to Houston, Texas later this month to examine the Texas Medical Center as a potential model for a medical, life-sciences, and research hub in Providence.

• Governor Chafee Congratulates Collaborative Research Grant Recipients, Treasurer Raimondo Tops Agenda at at First STAC Meeting

  02/03/2011 - 16:48

  The Rhode Island Science & Technology Advisory Council announced the winners of the 2011 Rhode Island Research Alliance Collaborative Research Grants, the fifth round of awards aimed at facilitating collaborative research in Rhode Island.  The awards, totaling $1,435,822, will support eight projects, representing 23 scientists from 13 educational institutions, hospitals and private companies.

• Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Announces Keith W. Stokes to Lead Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation

  01/10/2011 - 13:05

  Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced today that Keith W. Stokes, the Executive Director of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), is his choice to continue to lead the state’s official economic development organization.

• RIEDC Board of Directors Meeting Results in Updated Details on Rhode Island’s Bid for America’s Cup and Measures to Create Jobs

  12/21/2010 - 10:45

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors meeting highlighted America’s Cup news as well as approvals of financing and tax incentive measures for three Rhode Island small businesses that are expected to create 167 direct jobs and more than 148 indirect jobs in the state.

• BMW Oracle Officials Requests Meeting with the RIEDC to Discuss America’s Cup Event Final

  12/13/2010 - 15:13

  The RIEDC is set to hold face-to-face preliminary discussions early this week at the request of BMW-Oracle officials. The meeting comes after BMW officials announced concern with hosting the final event in San Francisco and RIEDC formally submitted its proposal on Wednesday December 8 to hold either the qualifying Challenger Series competitions or the Championship Finals for the 34th America’s Cup.

• Rhode Island Launches Powerful Website Designed to Attract Business, Create Jobs

  11/23/2010 - 22:54

  RIEDC, the Economic Development Foundation of Rhode Island (EDFRI), the Rhode Island State Planning Office and GIS Planning Inc. announced the launch of a website, http://www.RISiteLocator.com that provides free, comprehensive and accurate information to businesses looking to relocate or expand in the Ocean State.

• RIEDC Board Approves Measures Aimed at Creating 286 Jobs by Boosting Innovation-based Small Businesses

  11/22/2010 - 17:07

  The RIEDC Board of Directors approved financing and tax incentive measures for three Rhode Island small businesses that are expected to create 286 jobs in the state.

• Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation and State Leaders Host Northeast Offshore Wind Summit

  11/15/2010 - 12:47

  RIEDC and state leaders hosted the region’s leading green companies, developers and coastal experts at this week’s Northeast Offshore Wind Summit.

  
  

   

   

• Bond Sale Closing Paves Way For 38 Studios to Bring 450 Jobs to Rhode Island

  11/03/2010 - 07:42

  RIEDC announced today the closing of its Job Creation Guaranty Program financing package that supports 38 Studios’ expansion and relocation to Rhode Island, which will bring 450 high-wage, high-skilled jobs to the state. Wells Fargo Securities Capital and Barclays co-underwrote the bonds, which were purchased in a private placement on November 2, 2010 by a group of investors that includes insurance companies, asset managers, money managers and a community bank.

• RIEDC Financing Aimed at Small Rhode Island Businesses Creating, Retaining 275 Jobs in Rhode Island

  11/01/2010 - 03:00

  The RIEDC has helped 13 Rhode Island businesses obtain $23.2 million in financing since June 2010 with the goal to create or retain at least 275 jobs.

• RIEDC Board Helps Pave Way for 209 New Jobs, Green Economy Growth

  10/25/2010 - 19:49

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Board of Directors today approved financing and tax incentive measures for two critical projects aimed at creating at least 209 jobs. The Board also approved funding that will allow one of the state’s largest manufacturers to install a solar energy system to significantly reduce energy use and lower its business costs in Rhode Island.

• RIEDC, SENEDIA and Newport Chamber of Commerce Host 1st Annual Rhode Island Defense Expo

  10/20/2010 - 13:09

  Prominent leaders from U.S. Department of Defense, Naval War College and private sector businesses speak on future of defense industry

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, the Southeastern New England Defense-Industry Alliance and the Newport Chamber of Commerce this week hosted the Rhode Island Defense Expo, featuring Rhode Island’s congressional delegation, Governor Donald L. Carcieri and RIEDC Executive Director Keith W. Stokes

• RI Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Recognized as “Program of the Year” by NEDA

  10/18/2010 - 13:39

  NEDA Honors RIEDC with five awards for marketing and promotion excellence

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced that the Rhode Island Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (RI-CIE) received the Program of the Year Award at the Northeastern Economic Developers Association’s (NEDA) 54th Annual Conference in Providence today.

• Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC) Funds Research Fellowship in Honor of Governor Carcieri

  10/14/2010 - 15:34

  STAC announced that it will fund a $6,500 Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF) in honor of Governor Donald L. Carcieri and his commitment to strengthening student training and engagement in the sciences.

• Senior CVS Caremark Executive Named to Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council

  10/14/2010 - 09:47

  The Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council, as part of the RIEDC, announced that Stuart M. McGuigan, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer for CVS Caremark, has joined the Council.

• RIEDC’s Broadband Rhode Island Initiative Receives Additional $3.02 Million Federal Grant

  10/05/2010 - 10:46

  RIEDC's Broadband Rhode Island initiative (BBRI) has received additional federal funding that will help strengthen digital literacy and increase broadband usage across the state.

• RIEDC Renewable Energy Fund Continues to Foster Green Economy Growth

  10/04/2010 - 14:26

  RIEDC’s Board of Directors have unanimously approved two Renewable Energy Fund awards which include a $335,000 grant to the East Bay Energy Consortium and $130,589 to Milhaus LLC for the installation of a 38kW solar PV system.

• Rating Agencies Give Favorable Scores to 38 Studios Investment

  09/24/2010 - 07:49

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation announced that rating agencies Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s issued favorable ratings on bonds for the state’s loan guarantee agreement with 38 Studios.  The strong ratings will ensure that the interest rates on the bonds will be within the interest rate cap approved by the RIEDC Board of Directors for 38 Studios.

• Secretary of State Mollis and RIEDC Team Up to Help Rhode Island Businesses Start, Grow and Expand

  08/31/2010 - 14:58

  The RIEDC and Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis will join together again to assist businesses in development, growth and expansion through the We Mean Business Expo on Wednesday, Sept. 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick.

• 38 Studios is About Jobs and Industry Growth

  08/12/2010 - 22:15

  By Keith Stokes, RIEDC Executive Director

  On July 26, the RI Economic Development Corporation board approved a $75-million loan guarantee to help Massachusetts-based 38 Studios relocate and expand its interactive entertainment business in Rhode Island. The state's backing will help the company obtain private financing to bring 450 high-wage, highly skilled jobs and millions of dollars in income tax revenue to the Ocean State.

• RIEDC Board Authorizes First Use of New Jobs Creation Program

  07/27/2010 - 09:22

  In the first use of a new $125-million program to create jobs in the Ocean State, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Board of Directors today approved a Final Authorizing Resolution to provide video game developer 38 Studios a loan guarantee to help the company expand its business and relocate to Rhode Island.

• Rhode Island Takes Steps to Prepare State’s Workforce for High-Paying Jobs in Knowledge Economy

  07/13/2010 - 10:47

  Governor Carcieri and the General Assembly implement the recommendations of CCRI 21st Century Workforce Commission in order to strengthen Rhode Island’s workforce development capacity

• Rhode Island Given Top Priority to Host America’s Cup Pre-Regattas

  07/08/2010 - 12:07

  Newport named as top-priority site to host America’s Cup 34 pre-regattas

• America's Cup Trophy Takes Center Stage in Newport

  07/06/2010 - 14:12

  New England's sailing community, Rhode Island officials and visitors rallied today in Newport to celebrate the return of the America's Cup trophy to its traditional home and to congratulate the first U.S. team to win the world's premiere sailing competition since 1992.

• Event Details Announced for America’s Cup Trophy Celebration in Newport

  06/23/2010 - 10:08

  Visitors From All Over New England Will Gather to See the America’s Cup Trophy
  and Enjoy a Day of Family-Friendly Festivities 

• RIEDC's Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) Reports Record Year for RI Businesses

  06/21/2010 - 10:07

  RIEDC reports that PTAC clients were awarded more than $245 million in government contracts in 2009, a more than 5 percent increase from the previous program year.

• America’s Cup Trophy Returns to Newport

  06/07/2010 - 11:06

  BMW ORACLE Racing, winner in February of the 33rd America’s Cup, will return the oldest trophy in international sport to Newport, Rhode Island, on Thursday, July 1, 2010.

• RIEDC Board Helps Pave Way for 450 New Jobs at Quonset Point

  05/25/2010 - 14:52

  The RIEDC Board of Directors yesterday approved a tax incentive measure, ‘Project Status,’ that will help submarine builder Electric Boat create at least 450 new jobs as part of the company’s $55 million expansion at its Quonset Point facility in North Kingstown.

• Keith Stokes, Claudia Cardozo-Tarullo Recipients of 2010 Small Business Awards

  05/17/2010 - 14:43

  Two representatives of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) are among the eight 2010 Rhode Island small business award winners announced last week by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

• Rhode Island Science and Technology (STAC) Advisors Focus on Education

  05/06/2010 - 14:20

  Federal education reform funding, science and technology standards topped STAC's May 6 meeting agenda which also emphasized the vital link between education and workforce development in the state’s growing innovation economy.

• Governor Carcieri, State Leaders Unveil Executive Order and Legislative Package Making it Easier to do Business in Rhode Island

  05/04/2010 - 14:04

  Governor Carcieri, House Speaker Gordon Fox, and President of the Senate M. Teresa Paiva Weed today joined the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) and the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce to unveil an Executive Order and package of legislation aimed at making it easy to do business in Rhode Island by cutting government red tape and removing barriers to the establishment and growth of small business.

• RIEDC Board Unanimously Approves Action Plan To Promote Economic Growth

  04/29/2010 - 16:34

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) Board of Directors unanimously voted, during Monday’s board meeting, to approve a plan that prioritizes the organization’s efforts to effectively address the state’s economic development needs.  The plan is the result of ideas generated in two strategy sessions involving board members and senior RIEDC staff and incorporates recommendations made by the Governor’s Economic Development Corporation Review Panel.

• RIEDC’s Every Company Counts Hosts Informational Forum for Pawtucket Businesses

  04/26/2010 - 14:47

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s (RIEDC) small business initiative, Every Company Counts (ECC), along with other city, state and federal agencies, will hold an informational forum on Wednesday, April 28, 2010 for Pawtucket business owners on how they can take advantage of available resources to help them move forward in the current economy.

• Governor Carcieri, House & Senate Leadership Release Report Outlining Recommendations of CCRI 21st Century Workforce Commission

  04/14/2010 - 13:27

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri, Speaker Gordon D. Fox, Senate President M. Teresa Paiva Weed, the RIEDC, and the CCRI 21st Century Workforce Commission gathered to outline the Commission’s recommendations for strengthening CCRI’s position as a critical resource to educate workers for high-wage jobs in the state’s 21st century knowledge economy.

• Governor Carcieri and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Announce Flood Funding for Small Businesses

  03/31/2010 - 13:58

  Governor Carcieri and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announce the terms and conditions for the RIEDC Small Business Loan Fund’s (SBLF) Emergency Flood Fund.

• Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Engages Cities and Towns at a Statewide “Listening Tour”

  03/24/2010 - 13:33

  Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Keith Stokes today launched a statewide “Listening Tour” with Rhode Island communities, local businesses and chambers of commerce.

• Governor Carcieri and RIEDC Executive Director to Tour R.I's Emerging Information, Manufacturing and Green Energy Companies

  03/03/2010 - 14:32

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri and the RIEDC today announced several planned tours of Rhode Island-based small businesses operating in the state’s emerging growth sectors: information technology, advanced manufacturing and green energy.

• Every Company Counts Hosts Office Hours at Local Chambers of Commerce

  03/02/2010 - 15:14

  Every Company Counts (ECC), the small business initiative of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, today announced it will hold regular office hours at Rhode Island’s Chambers of Commerce, bringing ECC’s services to the Ocean State’s local communities.

• Rhode Island Receives $22.3 Million Stimulus Grant to Support Improvements at Quonset

  02/18/2010 - 17:11

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri today announced that the Quonset Development Corporation (QDC), a subsidiary of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (EDC) was awarded a $22.3 million Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) grant from the US Department of Transportation. 

• Senate Confirms RIEDC Executive Director Keith Stokes, New RIEDC Board Members

  02/12/2010 - 14:04

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation announced that Keith W. Stokes was unanimously confirmed as the agency’s executive director by the Senate. The Senate also confirmed Carcieri’s 12 nominees to RIEDC’s Board of Directors.

• Education Conference to Bring Global Exposure, Economic Boost to the Ocean State

  02/03/2010 - 14:58

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced that the Rhode Island Tourism Division, Regional Tourism organization and the Rhode Island Airport Corporation will welcome the Educational Travel Community’s Educational Travel Conference (ETC) to Providence from February 3-6 at the Rhode Island Convention Center.

• 18 Scientists, Eight Institutions Receive More Than $1 Million for Collaborative Research Projects

  02/03/2010 - 13:48

  The Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC) today announced the awardees of the 2010 Collaborative Research Awards program.  The awards will support six projects, representing 18 scientists from eight organizations throughout Rhode Island.

• RIEDC Awards $10,000 Small Business Loan to Spirare Surfboards

  02/02/2010 - 12:39

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation today announced that its Small Business Loan Fund has awarded start-up company Spirare Surfboards a $10,000 micro-business loan. The loan will help the newly established surfboard company, which produces surfboards with a fine-art design, a high degree of functionality and eco-friendly materials, expand its business.

• Governor Carcieri Appoints Members to RIEDC Board of Directors

  01/27/2010 - 10:57

  Governor Carcieri announced appointments to the RIEDC Board of Directors. The appointments are subject to the review and consent of the Rhode Island State Senate. The board was expanded from nine to thirteen members.

• Office of Energy Resources Offers Renewable Energy Grants to Rhode Islanders through Recovery Act

  01/11/2010 - 16:39

  The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources today announced that the Office is accepting grant applications for non-utility scale renewable energy projects in Rhode Island.  The grants, totaling $8,395,000, are funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) and are available to Rhode Island residents, businesses, municipalities, non-profit organizations, academic institutions.  The grants are designed to help pay for up to 25 percent of the up front costs of renewable energy projects. 

• Governor Carcieri Names Keith Stokes Executive Director of Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation

  01/05/2010 - 14:03

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri today appointed Keith Stokes as Executive Director for the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RI EDC).  Under the terms of the agreement, Stokes, 51, will serve in the position for one year, pending advice and consent of the Rhode Island State Senate. 

• Governor Carcieri Appoints Ioanna T. Morfessis as Executive Director of RIEDC

  12/11/2009 - 12:01

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri today appointed Ioanna T. Morfessis as Executive Director of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation.  As Rhode Island’s chief operating officer for economic development, the EDC Executive Director guides the state’s efforts to provide assistance to businesses, municipalities, chambers of commerce, academic institutions, and professional and civic associations.  The position is subject to the advice and consent of the Rhode Island State Senate.

• Deepwater Wind and National Grid Sign 20-Year Power-Purchase Agreement for Offshore Wind Energy

  12/10/2009 - 17:04

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri today announced that Deepwater Wind and National Grid have signed a 20-year, power-purchase agreement, marking a significant milestone in Rhode Island’s path toward developing the nation’s first offshore wind farm and establishing a green-collar industry. The agreement marks only the nation’s second such power-purchase agreement for renewable, offshore wind energy. 

• RIEDC Board of Directors Approve Funding for Three Renewable Energy Projects

  11/30/2009 - 13:20

  On November 23, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s Board of Directors voted in favor to partially fund three projects put forth by the Renewable Energy Fund (REF). The funding will support the installation of two solar systems and a wind turbine.

• Governor Carcieri and RIEDC Unveil Statewide Strategic Plan for Office and Industrial Site Development

  11/23/2009 - 17:10

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation today announced the release of the “Statewide Strategic Plan for Office and Industrial Site Development.” The plan proposes general site development recommendations as well as more specific recommendations based on geographic area that will position Rhode Island to compete for new economic opportunities.

• RIEDC Awards $225,000 Small Business Loan Fund to Nationwide Diesel Technologies, Inc.

  11/17/2009 - 16:31

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced that Nationwide Diesel Technologies, Inc (NDT) has been awarded a $225,000 loan by the agency’s Small Business Loan Fund. The financing will enable NDT, which operates a technical training facility in Smithfield, to open the Trades Training Center of Rhode Island, a new training center in Quonset/Davisville on February 15 and hire 15 additional employees.

• Rhode Island Ranks in Top 10 for Energy Efficiency

  10/26/2009 - 14:30

  Rhode Island is now ranked the 9th most energy efficient state for 2009, according to a survey conducted by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy.  This is up from its rank of 11 in 2008. 

• Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Releases 2009 Economic Growth Plan Review and Report

  10/06/2009 - 14:46

  The RIEDC has completed a comprehensive review of its activities since the initial release of its 2009 Economic Growth Plan. Central to this review are details surrounding the ongoing efforts of the plan and new initiatives to get Rhode Island Working Again.

• RIEDC Approves $1.2 Million in Renewable Energy Funding

  09/22/2009 - 14:42

  The RIEDC's Board of Directors and Interim Executive Director approved over $1.2 million in funding from the Corporation’s Renewable Energy Fund for eight renewable energy projects. The awards will create an estimated 21 full and 100 part-time positions.

• RIEDC Recognized for Marketing and Promotion Excellence

  09/22/2009 - 13:44

  The RIEDC is the recipient of four marketing and promotional awards from the Northeastern Economic Developers Association’s (NEDA) 2009 Literature and Promotion Awards.

• RIEDC Funds $250K Small Business Loan to Material Sampling Technologies, LLC

  09/17/2009 - 09:53

  The RIEDC announced the funding of a $250,000 Small Business Loan to Material Sampling Technologies, LLC (MST). MST is a new company which recently located its business in North Smithfield, Rhode Island.

• RIEDC Celebrates REF Grant Recipients

  09/03/2009 - 23:15

  The Renewable Energy Fund recently awarded 17 grants to Rhode Island communities, organizations and businesses that will fund renewable energy development projects or feasibility studies. To highlight the diverse array of renewable energy projects, the RIEDC has been hosting local events where community members, business owners, government affiliates and media have been in attendance.

• Mayor Cicilline Joins State Officials in Announcing Alteris Renewables Offices Locating in Providence

  08/05/2009 - 15:03

  Mayor David N. Cicilline, along with state economic development officials, announced the opening of the new offices of Alteris Renewables, Inc. - the largest renewable energy systems installer in the Northeast – in Providence. 

• Slater-Backed Cardiorobotics Closes $11.6 Million Series A Financing

  08/05/2009 - 12:57

  The Slater Technology Fund announced today that one of its portfolio companies, Cardiorobotics, Inc., has closed on an $11.6-million Series A financing. Slater participated in the financing round, which was led by Eagle Ventures.

• CVS Caremark Partners with State and Local Agencies to Recruit and Train Pharmacy Techs for New Customer Care Center

  07/16/2009 - 10:41

  CVS Caremark announced today that it is partnering with several state and local agencies in Rhode Island to recruit and train certified pharmacy technicians for jobs at its new Pharmacy Customer Care Center in Cumberland, RI. 

• Providence Business News Selects RIEDC’s Julian Dash as 40 Under Forty Winner

  07/01/2009 - 11:44

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation today announced that the Providence Business News has named the agency’s director of the Renewable Energy Fund, Julian Dash, as a 40 under Forty winner.

   

• Governor Carcieri Hails Deepwater Wind Rhode Island Lease Agreement at Quonset Business Park

  06/30/2009 - 09:09

  Governor Carcieri today hailed the Quonset Development Corporation Board of Directors’ approval of a development agreement to lease 117 acres to Deepwater Wind Rhode Island, LLC in the Quonset Business Park for the development of the company’s regional manufacturing facility and its regional development headquarters.

• Rhode Island Leaders Collaborate on Roadmap for the State’s Green Economy

  06/26/2009 - 09:17

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri, House Speaker William J. Murphy, Senate President M. Teresa Paiva Weed and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation hosted the Green Economy Roundtable, aimed at identifying the state’s unique green economic opportunities and accelerating green-sector job growth. The event was held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel at the Crossings in Warwick, Rhode Island.

• Renewable Energy Fund Awards Grants to 17 Local Alternative Energy Projects

  06/23/2009 - 09:00

  RIEDC's Renewable Energy Fund (REF) has awarded a total of $681,875 in grants to 17 local projects that will stimulate job growth in the green technology and green energy sectors of Rhode Island’s economy.

• Rhode Island Innovation Network Holds Kick-Off Event

  06/18/2009 - 13:54

  A half-day workshop was the kickoff event for the Rhode Island Innovation Network and Business Development Program.

• STAC Appoints New Co-Chair, Members

  06/17/2009 - 12:04

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri today announced the appointment of David M. Farmer, PhD, FRS, FRSC, Dean of the Graduate School of Oceanography at the University of Rhode Island, as co-chair of the Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council.

• Rhode Island Dubbed "Biotech Hub" in BioWorld Report

  06/10/2009 - 10:32

  BioWorld's Summer 2009 Expansion and Relocation report has named Rhode Island one of the top six biotech hotspots in North America.

• Live demonstration of defense and homeland security technologies scheduled for June 11 at Naval Station Newport

  06/10/2009 - 10:04

  The Undersea Perimeter Security Integrated Defense Environment (UPSIDE) project aims to provide a harbor and port security system for ships at dockside as well as pier side critical energy infrastructure

• Rhode Island Companies Seek to Expand Composite Technology Expertise at 2009 SAMPE Show

  05/28/2009 - 09:39

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with Rhode Island organizations such as Goetz Custom Technologies, Resolute Racing Shells, Vulcan Catalytic Systems and the New England Institute of Technology showcased their composite technology capabilities and explored new market opportunities at the Society for Advancement of Material and Process Engineering (SAMPE) 2009 in Baltimore.

• RIEDC Holds Fourth Annual Defense and Oceans Day

  05/26/2009 - 08:30

  Leaders from the Naval War College, the Naval Undersea Warfare Center,  URI’s Center for Ocean Exploration and Deepwater Wind discuss visions for the future.

• Governor, State Tourism Officials Celebrate “Tourism Works for Rhode Island,” at 24th Annual Industry Tourism Luncheon

  05/14/2009 - 13:02

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri, state tourism officials and more than 300 members of the tourism and hospitality industry gathered for the 24th Annual Tourism Unity Luncheon at the Westin Hotel in Providence. The theme of this year’s luncheon, “Tourism Works for Rhode Island,” celebrates the tourism industry’s tremendous economic impact on the state.

• Officials from Lakeland Community College, Virginia Community College System to Present “Best Practices” to CCRI Commission

  05/14/2009 - 09:53

  The second meeting of the Community College of Rhode Island 21st Century Workforce Commission will be held on May 15 at the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s Providence office and will focus on career pathways.

• Quonset’s Port of Davisville Pursuing Marine Highway Corridor Program

  05/06/2009 - 09:29

  The Quonset Development Corporation is moving to have the Port of Davisville included in the federal Marine Highway Corridor Program.  The program establishes marine corridors to transport freight and passengers via ship, barge or ferry as an alternative to utilizing congested highway infrastructure. 

• RIEDC Awards Small Business Loan Funds to Three Local Companies

  05/05/2009 - 14:01

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation has awarded a total of $420,000 in loans from the Small Business Loan Fund to support job growth at three local companies.

• RI-CIE Launches in Providence as Resource for Entrepreneurs

  04/28/2009 - 09:59

  The Rhode Island Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship will formally open its headquarters at One Davol Square on Tuesday, April 28, 2009. RI-CIE is a cooperative effort among Providence, the state, Brown University, and business and economic development officials.

• Governor’s Workforce Board Awards $320,000 in Grants to Local Companies

  04/27/2009 - 11:45

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), in conjunction with the Governor’s Workforce Board, today announced that four local Rhode Island companies qualified to receive more than $320,000 in workforce training grants.

• RIEDC is now on Twitter

  04/15/2009 - 10:47

  Stay on top of the latest economic development news and events. Follow RIEDC on Twitter:

  www.twitter.com/RIEDC

   

   

   

   

• Rhode Island to be Represented at 2009 BIO International Convention

  04/15/2009 - 03:00

  The Tech Collective, Rhode Island’s Information Technology and Bioscience Industry Association, will be partnering with the New England Biotech Association (NEBA) to represent the state’s Bioscience industry at the 2009 BIO International Convention on May 17-21, 2009 in Atlanta, GA.

• RIEDC Awarded $1.4 million to Expand Narragansett Bay Port Security Network

  04/10/2009 - 09:03

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation has received a $1,402,549 Port Security Grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to support expansion of the state’s Port Security Communications Network in and around Narragansett Bay.

• STAC Launches Comprehensive Searchable Database for Federal Funding Opportunities

  04/06/2009 - 13:23

  The Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council has expanded its website to assist science and technology researchers and enterprises in pursuing stimulus funding opportunities.

• BusinessWeek Cites Providence as a “Best Small City” for Startups

  04/01/2009 - 12:49

  Business Week magazine has selected Providence as one of the best small cities in the country for startup companies. The magazine credited the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s small business support and funding that helps the state’s small businesses expand and grow.

• Rhode Island Division of Tourism Releases Official 2009 Travel Guide

  03/30/2009 - 09:43

  The Official 2009 Rhode Island Travel Guide is now available, providing visitors from far and near extensive details about vacation opportunities in the Ocean State. The Travel Guide, which has been updated with new images and event information, provides recommended itineraries and features a comprehensive listing of cultural and recreational activities, events, transportation options and lodging for each region of the state.

• RIEDC Announces New Public/Private Partnership to Foster Entrepreneurial Activity in Ocean State

  03/24/2009 - 13:50

  RIEDC and Brown University announced plans for a new center designed to train and develop Rhode Island's entrepreneurs who will help to strengthen the state's economy and create more high-wage jobs.

• RIEDC 2009 Economic Growth Plan: Rhode Island, Working Again

  03/24/2009 - 10:28

  RIEDC’s 2009 Economic Growth Plan proposes 10 concrete action items to accelerate the pace of job growth in our state.

• New International Yacht Restoration School Marine Systems Training Facility Being Launched

  03/17/2009 - 14:01

  The latest in a development of commercial facilities on Franklin Street in Bristol isn’t just another new building.  Scheduled for its Official Opening on March 28, the building at the corner of Franklin and Buttonwood Streets “represents the culmination of an idea to bring the marine trades and related educational programs together”, according to Andy Tyska, Developer of the Franklin Street Marine Corridor.
   

• Quonset’s Port of Davisville is North America’s 5th Largest Auto Importer

  03/16/2009 - 15:27

  Quonset’s Port of Davisville now ranks as the fifth busiest auto importer in North America, according to new statistics compiled by PIERS Maritime Research Services and the Quonset Development Corporation (QDC).

• Customized Training Funding Available From Workforce Partnership of Greater R.I. and Workforce Solutions

  03/16/2009 - 15:10

  Rhode Island's two local workforce investment boards, the Workforce Partnership of Greater Rhode Island and Workforce Solutions of Providence/Cranston, are releasing up to $500,000 to Rhode Island businesses in order to finance customized training programs for new hires.

• Coty Inc. Signs Lease at Cumberland Commerce Center

  03/16/2009 - 14:53

  The Economic Development Foundation of Rhode Island, Inc. (“EDFRI”) announced that Coty Inc. has signed a lease for 5,500 square feet in Cumberland Commerce Center, Building II, Highland Corporate Park, Cumberland, Rhode Island.

• Rhode Island Business Owner Writes Letter of Support for RIEDC’s Innovation Tax Credit and Workforce Training Services

  03/16/2009 - 14:40

  In a recent letter to the Providence Journal, Bernie Lambrese, CEO of Infusion Resource, called the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s Innovation Tax Credit and workforce training grants critical to supporting and creating jobs.

• State, Aquidneck Island Communities to Collaborate on Redevelopment of Former Navy Land for Economic Development Opportunity

  03/09/2009 - 11:14

  With the support of Governor Donald L. Carcieri, RIEDC, the towns of Portsmouth and Middletown and the city of Newport have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to maximize this important opportunity for economic growth.

• InQuest Technologies Celebrates the Relocation of its International Headquarters from Massachusetts to Rhode Island

  02/11/2009 - 04:00

  InQuest Technologies, Inc., held a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the grand opening of their new corporate headquarters in Providence, RI.

• Every Company Counts Launches New Website

  02/10/2009 - 11:10

  Every Company Counts (ECC), the small business initiative of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), today announced the launch of its redesigned and streamlined website —EveryCompanyCounts.com.

• Renewable Energy Takes Center Stage as Massive Wind Turbine Transported by Barge across Narragansett Bay

  02/06/2009 - 15:07

  Illustrating Quonset’s potential as a Center for the emerging renewable energy industry and Governor Carcieri’s commitment to developing the state as a major hub in the renewable energy field a massive wind turbine was loaded onto a barge for transportation across Narragansett Bay today.

• STAC Releases 2009 Report and Recommendations, Urges Support for RI Research Alliance and Entrepreneurship Center

  01/28/2009 - 11:17

  STAC presented Governor Donald L. Carcieri and the Rhode Island General Assembly with a set of recommendations calling for timely, targeted and transformative investments to support discovery and innovation and its transfer into the marketplace.

• STAC Awards 23 Scientists, 10 Institutions Funding for Collaborative Projects

  01/28/2009 - 10:33

  The Rhode Island Science and Technology Advisory Council (STAC) today announced the awardees of the 2009 Collaborative Research Award program.  The awards will support seven projects, representing 23 scientists from 10 organizations throughout Rhode Island.

• RIEDC Calls on General Assembly to Approve Small Business Loan Guarantee Authority

  01/26/2009 - 14:07

  RIEDC Interim Executive Director J. Michael Saul called on the Rhode Island legislature January 21 to approve a guarantee authority from the state of Rhode Island to help small businesses access much needed capital.

• URI Opens Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences

  01/26/2009 - 04:00

  The University of Rhode Island officially opened the doors today to the Center for Biotechnology and Life Sciences, the largest classroom and research building project in its history, with a grand celebration attended by numerous public officials, industry executives, and hundreds of URI faculty, staff and students.

• RIEDC’s Renewable Energy Fund Awards First Municipal Grant

  01/21/2009 - 08:20

  RIEDC’s Renewable Energy Fund (REF) Awards First Municipal Grant Town of Jamestown receives $30,000 for wind energy feasibility study.

• Rhode Island Receives "International Star Diamond Award" in Tourism

  01/08/2009 - 14:30

  Rhode Island becomes the first state to receive the "International Star Diamond Award" by the American Academy of Hospitality Services for excellence in tourism.

• Rhode Island Tourism Website Named Third Best by Build !nternet

  01/08/2009 - 12:45

  The Rhode Island state tourism website was recently rated third best in the nation by Build !nternet in its “finest of the bunch” category.

• Mike Saul: Rhode Island Continues Foray Into Idea Making

  12/29/2008 - 11:12

  Over the last few decades Rhode Island’s economy has changed in fundamental ways. Like the rest of the nation, the state’s economy has shifted from a reliance on machinery and equipment to “knowledge workers” who generate ideas and information. The state must now compete in an economy where innovation and knowledge are the primary drivers of economic growth. 

• Rhode Island Companies Attend World's Largest Medical Trade Fair

  12/22/2008 - 15:10

  In November 2008, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation partnered with the U.S. Commercial Service, a federal trade promotion unit of the International Trade Administration, to help four leading Rhode Island medical companies participate in the “Best of New England Pavilion” at MEDICA 2008 in Dusseldorf, Germany.

• RIEDC Releases Renewable Energy Fund Application

  12/18/2008 - 11:57

  RIEDC now accepting financing applications for renewable energy projects that have the potential to make electricity in a cleaner, more sustainable manner and stimulate job growth for the state

• Governor, RIEDC, SBA Launch $200M Small Business Stimulus Package

  12/11/2008 - 13:02

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri joined members of the local banking community, the Small Business Administration and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation at a press conference to unveil details of the Small Business Stimulus Package. The six point package included an infusion of capital into the State’s Small Business Loan Fund (SBLF), a state-backed loan guarantee program to encourage lending to small business, and a pledge from the local banking community to invest more than $165 million into small and mid-sized Rhode Island businesses over the next two years, and an additional pledge of $5 million in gap financing from the Business Development Company of Rhode Island.

• Rhode Island Dubbed Marine-Business Friendly by Trade Only Today

  12/04/2008 - 12:15

  Trade Only Today, a daily trade magazine for marine professionals, recently cited Rhode Island’s small geographic footprint, with more than 400 miles of coastline, as a major advantage to the marine industry by offering easy and efficient access to a vast network to many of the best ocean technology companies and customers in the world.

• Rhode Island Ranks Fifth in Technology in Annual State Competitiveness Report

  12/04/2008 - 11:52

  Rhode Island now ranks fifth overall in technology according to the Beacon Hill Institute (BHI) at Suffolk University's "State Competitiveness Report 2008." The technology sub index category measures a state's R&D capacity, inhabitants with science and engineering degrees, the number of patents per 100,000 residents and National Institutes of Health support to institutions per capita.

• RIEDC Launches Small Business Survival Series

  11/25/2008 - 14:24

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation announced it will a host series of five seminars in December designed to help Rhode Island’s small businesses survive and thrive in tough economic times — RIEDC’s Small Business Survival Series.

• Report Names Rhode Island Top Performer in the 2008 State New Economy Index

  11/18/2008 - 11:42

  Rhode Island was cited as a top performer in the 2008 State New Economy Index, a report published by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation (ITIF). Released today, the 2008 Index ranked Rhode Island 11th in the nation in a state-by-state analysis of how state economies are transitioning to economic development strategies that focus on the creation and retention of high-wage jobs in growth industries. Rhode Island has moved up four places from its 2007 Index position, and has moved up from 29th when the Index was first issued in 1999.

• Atrion Networking Corporation Expands Operations in Rhode Island

  11/12/2008 - 16:30

  Atrion Networking Corporation has expanded its Rhode Island operations with the creation of its new Customer Interface Division. Utilizing Atrion’s cutting-edge business solution technologies, the CID allows businesses of all sizes a state-of-the-art approach to meeting current and future client demands.

• RIEDC Partners with Alternative Lenders and Growth Capital Experts to Help Rhode Island Businesses Find New Sources of Capital

  11/10/2008 - 12:14

  RIEDC will host two financing educational seminars this month targeting the state’s small business community: “Navigating the Credit Crunch: Alternative Lending Sources” on Wednesday, November 19 at noon and “Financing Fast Growth” on Tuesday, November 25 at 10 a.m.

• RIEDC Designates CVS Caremark Expansion a Critical Economic Project

  10/30/2008 - 09:01

  A $30-million expansion project proposed by CVS Caremark Corporation that would add more than 200 new jobs over the next two years has been assigned expedited permitting status by the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) board of directors.

• Support from RIMES Yields Increased Profits and Jobs for Local Manufacturers

  10/29/2008 - 11:07

  The Rhode Island Manufacturing Extension Services, a non-profit organization providing complete manufacturing solutions to Rhode Island's small and medium-sized manufacturers, announced that it has yielded a positive return of a $450,256 investment by the National Institute of Standards and Technology of 42 to 1 for the Rhode Island economy.

• RIDOT Opens New Route 403 to Highway Traffic

  10/22/2008 - 15:48

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri joined the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) in a ceremony on the North Kingstown/East Greenwich line to preview the new Route 403 Relocation Project.

• Portsmouth Firm A2B Tracking Solutions Wins GSA Contract Award

  10/22/2008 - 13:44

  Portsmouth-based A2B Tracking Solutions Inc. has been awarded a U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) contract, in support of the U.S. Air Force, under the Department of Defense’s Unique Identification (UID) program.

• Collaborative Innovation Summit Draws Sold-Out Crowd to Providence

  10/21/2008 - 11:39

  On October 15-16, 2008 at Trinity Rep in Providence, Rhode Island, the Business Innovation Factory's BIF-4 Collaborative Innovation Summit brought together many of today's most compelling innovators, business model renegades and true transformers to reveal the secrets of innovation success through personal storytelling.

• RIEDC Announces Results of Pilot Teacher Externship in Industry Program

  10/21/2008 - 11:25

  In an effort to encourage year-long teacher professional learning opportunities that connect student learning in STEM subjects to applications in Rhode Island’s innovation economy, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation  announced initial results of the Teacher Externship in Industry pilot program.

• Neurotech Announces the Opening of Its GMP Manufacturing Facility in Cumberland, Rhode Island

  10/21/2008 - 08:55

  Neurotech Pharmaceuticals, a privately-held biotechnology company focused on the development of sight-saving therapeutics for chronic retinal diseases, announced today the opening of its new 27,000-square-foot GMP manufacturing facility in Cumberland, Rhode Island.

• Governor Carcieri, RIEDC, Rhode Island Commodores Partner to Bolster Economic Development Effort

  09/30/2008 - 13:32

  RIEDC attraction campaign kicks off next phase with series of regional dinners for industry executives in target sectors; seven Massachusetts companies participate in first of a regional dinner series.

• Firm Selected to Conduct Assessment of I-195 Surplus Property

  09/30/2008 - 08:59

  A selection committee comprised of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Saul Kaplan, Rhode Island Department of Transportation Executive Director Michael Lewis, and Thomas Deller, Director of Planning for the city of Providence announced today that they have chosen Cambridge-based Chan Krieger Sieniewicz to perform a redevelopment and marketing analysis of the land that will become available for redevelopment as a result of the relocation of Interstate Route 195.

• RIEDC Recognized by Northeastern Economic Developer’s Association for Marketing and Promotion Excellence

  09/26/2008 - 15:57

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced it is the recipient of three awards from the Northeastern Economic Developers Association’s (NEDA) 2008 Literature and Promotion Awards.

• URI, RIC awarded $12.5 million federal grant to boost science and math teaching, learning across state

  09/26/2008 - 11:01

  The University of Rhode Island, in partnership with Rhode Island College, has been awarded a five-year, $12.5 million National Science Foundation grant to transform the quality of science and mathematics teaching and learning at all Rhode Island middle and high schools, Governor Donald L. Carcieri announced.

• Carcieri Names Deepwater Wind as Developer for Rhode Island’s Off-Shore Wind Farm

  09/26/2008 - 09:41

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri announced that Deepwater Wind was chosen as the successful developer to construct a wind energy project off the shores of Rhode Island that will provide 1.3 million megawatt hours per year of renewable energy – 15 percent of all electricity used in the state.

• RI Nexus Kicks Off the ‘RI Nexus College Tour’ at JWU

  09/24/2008 - 08:47

  RI Nexus to visit Rhode Island colleges to raise awareness among students about internships, employment and entrepreneurial opportunities within the state's burgeoning info-tech and digital sector.

• Director of Tourism for State of Rhode Island, David C. DePetrillo, Announces Retirement

  09/23/2008 - 11:02

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation announced today that David C. DePetrillo, Director of Tourism for the State of Rhode Island, will retire from his position effective September 30, 2008. Concurrently, Mark Brodeur, Director of Tourism Operations, will be promoted to Director of Tourism for the State of Rhode Island.

• RIEDC, Providence Business News Honor 2008 Innovation Award Winners

  09/11/2008 - 14:55

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) and the Providence Business News (PBN) honored the winners of this year’s 2008 Rhode Island Innovation Awards at a gala event on September 18 at the Kirkbrae Country Club. Launched in 2006, the Innovation Awards celebrate Rhode Island companies, organizations and individuals that have made innovation central to their work.

• RIEDC Awarded Special Achievement in GIS Award from ESRI

  08/14/2008 - 14:18

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation has received the Special Achievement in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Award for Leadership with Geospatial Technology from the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI) at the organization’s annual International User Conference in San Diego.

• RIEDC's Saul Kaplan Discusses R.I.'s Economy with WADK's Robert Bailey

  08/13/2008 - 11:14

  Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Executive Director Saul Kaplan talks with WADK's Robert Bailey about Rhode Island's "secret sauce:" its size, on the station's Marketing and Money segment.

• RIEDC, Cox Communications, Raytheon, Rite-Solutions and Teknor Apex Launch Summer Teacher Training Initiative

  08/12/2008 - 10:57

  In an effort to encourage yearlong teacher professional learning opportunities in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced the creation of Leadership Initiatives for Teaching and Technology (LIFT2) - Rhode Island, a statewide pilot program that allows teachers to work for a summer at a company where they explore real world industry applications of STEM.

• Nine Firms to Compete for Opportunity to Conduct Assessment of I-195 Surplus Property

  08/07/2008 - 09:19

  In June 2008, the RIEDC issued a request for proposals seeking a vendor to perform a professional redevelopment and marketing analysis for the I-195 surplus property. The analysis will evaluate land use solutions that maximize the economic and tax values of the relocation parcels and enhance the public use and enjoyment of the surrounding areas.

• Time is Running Out to Apply for the 2008 Rhode Island Innovation Awards

  08/06/2008 - 13:48

  The Innovation Awards, presented by the Providence Business News in partnership with the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation and Tech Collective, and sponsored by Cox Business, are designed to honor Rhode Island-based companies, organizations and individuals that constantly replace existing methods, models and products with better ones.
  A short application form is due by August 20. Apply Now!

• Rhode Island Receives Top Marks in Two Economic Development Studies

  08/01/2008 - 12:40

  Two reports, measuring business cost and economic development climate, gave Rhode Island and Providence high marks in categories such as research and development, education climate and environmental efforts.

• RIEDC Financing Program to Create 90 New Jobs in Rhode Island

  07/30/2008 - 08:48

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Loan Fund (SBLF) has provided expansion capital loans totaling $1.75 million, enabling four Rhode Island businesses to create more than 90 new jobs.

• InQuest Technologies Announces Corporate Relocation to Rhode Island

  07/28/2008 - 13:51

  InQuest Technologies, the developer of IQ9, the leading platform for delivering web-based enterprise business applications, today announced that the company will relocate its headquarters from Southborough, Massachusetts to Providence, Rhode Island in September 2008. InQuest will relocate approximately 20 employees when doors at the new office open this fall with plans to hire aggressively and grow this location to 50 employees.

• Steven King Named New Managing Director of QDC

  07/24/2008 - 09:57

  Steven J. King, P.E. has been named Managing Director of the Quonset Development Corporation. King, a Professional Engineer, has worked at Quonset since 1998. At its board meeting on Monday, July 21, 2008, the QDC Board of Directors unanimously concurred with Kaplan’s appointment of King.

• Aspen Aerogels Opens $30-million Facility in East Providence

  07/17/2008 - 14:39

  Aspen Aerogels, a manufacturer of energy-efficient, aerogel-based insulation solutions, opened a $30-million, 150,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in East Providence Monday. The company’s expansion brings dozens of jobs to Rhode Island, with plans to add 60 more over the next three years.

• CVS Caremark Announces Expansion of its Rhode Island Operations

  07/17/2008 - 14:16

  CVS Caremark Corporation, the largest provider of prescriptions in the United States, today announced expansion plans for its Rhode Island operations over the next two years.  The company plans to build two new 150,000-square-foot office facilities in the Highland Corporate Park in Cumberland, R.I. The new facilities are designed to support the company’s continuing growth and current hiring expectation of more than 200 new positions on its corporate campus. 

• A note from RIEDC Executive Director Saul Kaplan

  06/27/2008 - 11:50

  Last week, the Milken Institute’s State Technology and Science Index confirmed that Rhode Island has made progress in its effort to become a regional and national hub for science, technology and innovation.  Milken’s Index uses a variety of indicators to measure how well each state is performing in today’s global knowledge-based economy.

• Strong Showing for Providence in 'Cybercities' Report

  06/25/2008 - 14:25

  The American Electronics Association's 2008 Cybercities report ranked the Providence-Fall River-New Bedford area as one of the nation's top cities in several areas measuring the technology industry.

• Rhode Island Breaks Into Top 10 of Science and Technology Report

  06/20/2008 - 10:10

  Rhode Island has moved up to 10th place in the 2008 State Science and Technology Index, released by California-based Milken Institute. The report uses a host of indicators to paint a comprehensive picture of how well states are performing in today’s highly competitive knowledge-based economy.

• Rhode Island to Host First Ever Supply Chain Management Summit

  06/13/2008 - 16:47

  On Friday, June 20, 2008, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), Rhode Island Manufacturing Extension Services (RIMES), Bryant University’s Chafee Center for International Business and Banneker Industries, Inc. will be hosting the first ever RI Supply Chain Management (SCM) Summit. The RI-SCM Summit will bring together both the public and private sectors to promote best practices of SCM within the state as well as highlight the expertise and resources available in SCM to RI institutions. The event will be held from 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at the George E. Bello Center for Information Technology at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI.

• RI Nexus Expands Activities, Announces New Collaboration with Providence Geeks

  06/10/2008 - 11:59

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation has announced the next phase of activity for RI Nexus, the RIEDC program dedicated to information sharing and community building in the state's info-tech and digital media (ITDM) sector. Activities will include improvements to the RINexus.com online hub, an expanded line-up of events and activities and a deepened partnership with Providence Geeks, the group co-founded by RI Nexus program director Jack Templin.

• Chaffee Industrial Roofing Celebrates 100th Anniversary

  06/02/2008 - 13:46

  East Providence’s Chaffee Industrial Roofing today celebrated 100 years in business. The firm, established in 1908 by Thomas K. Chaffee, installs and services roofs on industrial and commercial buildings throughout New England.

• Governor Carcieri to Convene Economic Policy Council

  05/20/2008 - 13:56

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri will host a meeting of the Economic Policy Council on May 21, 2008 and lead business and civic leaders in a discussion of the state’s economic development plan and priorities.  This is the first meeting of the EPC since the council was consolidated into the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC).

• Legislation Seeks Growth Capital Program to Support Rhode Island Businesses

  05/15/2008 - 11:20

  Legislation to create a $20-million Growth Capital Guarantee Program has been introduced to the Senate and House of Representatives of the Rhode Island General Assembly. The legislation seeks to reposition existing guarantee authority currently in the Rhode Island Industrial-Recreational Building Authority (IRBA) program to help companies well positioned to create new high-wage jobs obtain growth capital from private sector lenders using assets other than real estate, machinery and equipment.

• RIEDC to Sponsor Supply Chain Management Summit

  05/13/2008 - 11:37

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), along with Bryant University, Banneker and the Rhode Island Manufacturing Extension Services (RIMES), is sponsoring the 2008 Rhode Island Supply Chain Management Summit.

• APC to Keep Corporate Headquarters in Rhode Island

  05/12/2008 - 14:28

  American Power Conversion, the global leader in integrated critical power and cooling, announced that the company will remain at its current location in South Kingstown on Fairgrounds Road. APC had been reviewing other location possibilities, but decided that the South Kingstown, Rhode Island facility best suited the company’s needs.

• RIEDC Financing Programs Create, Retain More than 400 Jobs in 12 Month Period

  05/12/2008 - 09:49

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation’s Small Business Loan Fund (SBLF) and Micro Loan program have helped create and/or retain more than 400 jobs in the last year.  Since June 2007, 12 loans totaling $2.6 million were awarded to both small and mid-sized businesses located in communities throughout the state.

• Governor Carcieri, APC and RIEDC to Host Dpt. of Commerce Officials Visit to R.I. as Part of “Invest in America” Week Activities

  05/08/2008 - 08:45

  U.S. Department of Commerce officials plan to visit Rhode Island today to highlight the benefits of foreign investments made in the U.S. as part of the agency’s Invest in America Week activities. Invest in America Week will be held May 5-9, 2008, featuring events spanning the United States. These events will highlight the importance of foreign direct investment (FDI) for jobs and economic growth through a series of site visits to foreign investor-owned facilities in states across the country. West Kingston, R.I.-based APC, a global leader in integrated critical power and cooling services, will serve as host site for Rhode Island’s Invest in America Week activities on May 8. APC is owned by France-based Schneider Electronic, a $25 billion global specialist in energy management.

• RIEDC Announces Changes to State’s Expedited Permitting Program

  04/29/2008 - 09:07

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced changes to the agency’s expedited permitting process, known as Certificate of Critical Economic Concern (CCEC).  The changes are designed to make the program a more useful tool in the state’s effort to expedite high priority economic development projects and to accelerate the creation of higher wage job opportunities for Rhode Islanders.

• Forensic Risk Alliance Leases Full Floor in Providence's iBuilding

  04/22/2008 - 08:54

  Forensic Risk Alliance (FRA), a leading international provider of forensic investigation and litigation support services with offices in New York and London, has entered into a lease agreement to relocate their US Headquarters to the “iBuilding” at 170 Westminster Street in Downtown Providence during the summer of 2008.

• RIEDC Expands Small Business Support Effort

  04/21/2008 - 10:42

  The RIEDC has announced the expansion of the Regulatory Flexibility (RegFlex) program, an effort to reduce the regulatory burden on small businesses. RegFlex is administered by the agency’s Every Company Counts small business service unit. RegFlex expansion will increase RIEDC’s outreach with both small businesses and state agencies to better understand the impact of state regulations and to suggest improvements that will lessen the regulatory burden on small business.

• Concordia Expands Medical Manufacturing Operation in Rhode Island

  04/17/2008 - 13:22

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced today that Concordia Manufacturing, LLC has received a $500,000 loan from the Small Business Loan Fund to assist in its plans to expand its medical manufacturing operations.

• Kelly Space & Technology Opens East Coast Operation in Rhode Island

  04/15/2008 - 08:53

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced that Kelly Space & Technology, Inc., a San Bernardino-based California company focusing on aerospace, energy and homeland security technologies, is establishing an East Coast operation in Rhode Island. As production commences over the next year, Kelly estimates its Rhode Island facility will house approximately 50 employees.

• RIEDC Partners in Regional Defense Industry Partnership

  04/09/2008 - 16:14

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced the agency’s participation in the Defense Technology Initiative (DTI), a new six-state network that will work to grow the region’s premier defense technology cluster. DTI’s mission is to create jobs, strengthen the regional workforce and increase the New England-area defense community’s political presence with the Pentagon and on Capitol Hill.

• RIEDC, City of Providence and Rhode Island Department of Transportation Partner for Redevelopment of I-195 Surplus Land

  04/02/2008 - 09:54

  The new landscape created by the relocation of I-195, better known as the IWay, in Providence, which will make approximately 19.2 acres of land available for redevelopment, represents one of the most important economic development opportunities in Rhode Island’s recent history. The redevelopment has the potential to change the skyline of the capital city, add significant office and commercial space to the area and create a new hub of high-wage job growth.

• An Open Letter to the R.I. General Assembly from RIEDC Executive Director Saul Kaplan on Proposed Tax Legislation

  03/31/2008 - 16:12

  Business and tax climate have a powerful effect on our efforts to reposition Rhode Island’s economy and create more high-wage jobs for our state’s citizens. We must continue to improve Rhode Island’s tax competitiveness and hold the line on the progress we have made. Two bills recently introduced to the Rhode Island House of Representatives (H7950 and H7343) seek to increase personal and business income taxes and raise capital gains taxes. These changes to our tax structure will increase the tax burden faced by our state’s residents and businesses and jeopardize progress we have made in improving our regional and national competitiveness.

• RIEDC’s Saul Kaplan Discusses Rhode Island’s Growth Plan with BioRegion News

  03/19/2008 - 15:53

  RIEDC Executive Director Saul Kaplan recently sat down for a Q&A session with a reporter from BioRegion News to discuss Rhode Island’s economic growth plan and the state’s bid to grow a high wage innovation economy.

• RIEDC, CCRI Partner to Recommend CCRI Workforce Commission

  03/13/2008 - 09:26

  The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced today that legislation to create the CCRI 21st Century Workforce Commission has been submitted to the Rhode Island General Assembly (H7889, S2450). The legislation is sponsored by Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Paiva Weed and House Majority Leader Gordon Fox. The commission will recommend specific actions to strengthen CCRI’s position as a key institution in Rhode Island’s effort to create a 21st century workforce well prepared for the high-wage job opportunities created by knowledge economy companies.

• Governor Carcieri Announces Consolidation of Economic Policy Council into the Economic Development Corporation

  03/11/2008 - 14:30

  Governor Donald L. Carcieri today announced his decision to consolidate the Economic Policy Council (EPC) into an advisory council for the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC). The advisory Council will remain in place and the Board will be chaired by Governor Carcieri. RIEDC Executive Director Saul Kaplan will continue as an EPC member and will assume responsibility for providing staff support to the Council. Consolidating EPC and RIEDC will ensure closer alignment around a single economic development strategy, sharpen the state’s focus on priority programs and will save the state money.

• Saul Kaplan in ProJo Editorial: Difficult Economic Times Call for Decisive Action

  03/10/2008 - 12:57

  Rhode Island is at a tipping point and we must work together to manage a difficult state budget, improve our tax competitiveness, and provide businesses with the tools they need to grow. We must become a knowledge economy that produces better jobs for all Rhode Islanders. Recent employment numbers only increase our resolve to accelerate the transition.

• Cutting-Edge Composites Training Program is Launched in R.I.

  03/07/2008 - 04:00

  The Rhode Island Economic Development (RIEDC) in conjunction with the New England Institute of Technology announced today open enrollment in a federally funded workforce development program targeting the marine trades industry in the Ocean State. The Composite Repair & Boat Construction Training program is an intensive 12-week program aimed at increasing the number of qualified employees who have an expertise working with composite materials.

• RIEDC, Rhode Island Commodores Partner to Launch Attraction Campaign in High-wage Sector

  02/26/2008 - 15:51

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced the launch of Opportunity: Rhode Island, a regional attraction campaign aimed at identifying expansion and relocation opportunities initially focused in the Financial Services, Information Technology and Digital Media, and Health and Life Sciences sectors. The campaign, funded in part by the Rhode Island Commodores, will use direct marketing, industry events and peer outreach to generate new business development leads.

• RIEDC 2008 Economic Growth Plan: Creating Higher Wage Job Opportunities for All Rhode Islanders

  02/26/2008 - 15:45

  Over the last few decades Rhode Island's economy has changed in fundamental ways. Like the rest of the nation, our economy has shifted away from a reliance on machinery and equipment to "knowledge workers" who generate ideas and information. We must now compete in an economy where innovation and knowledge are the primary drivers of economic growth. Though daunting, the transition to a new global innovation economy offers Rhode Island an opportunity to achieve greater prosperity now and in the years to come.

• RIEDC Launches New Alliance with Two Area Business Development Companies

  02/26/2008 - 12:57

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced a new strategic alliance with the Business Development Company of Rhode Island (BDCRI) and the Business Development Company of New England (BDCNE). RIEDC joins with the BDCs in a partnership to bring the financing tools of two of the most recognized business development organizations in the United States to an expanded number of Rhode Island businesses with more that $200 million in growth capital products available to invest.

• RIEDC Announces New Finance Program to Assist Rhode Island Growth Companies

  02/26/2008 - 12:48

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation announced legislation sponsored by House Majority Leader Gordon Fox and Senator William Walaska, Chairman, Senate Corporations Committee that seeks to increase available growth capital for Rhode Island companies well positioned to grow and create new high-wage jobs.

• RIEDC Aids Goetz Custom Boats with Workforce Development, Financing

  01/22/2008 - 10:11

  Bristol’s Goetz Custom Boats was recently awarded a Governor’s Workforce Board grant of $68,000 to train 20 new employees as well as financing that helped the company build a 43,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Bristol. The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation assisted Goetz in obtaining both the workforce grant and financing for their new facility.

• Neurotech Pharmaceuticals Announces Rhode Island Expansion Plan

  01/16/2008 - 14:34

  Biotechnology company focused on sight-saving technologies is aided by state in developing new office and manufacturing facility

• Two EDC Initiatives Cited as PBN 2007 Stories of the Year

  01/07/2008 - 17:20

  RI Nexus, the EDC's online hub for the state's info-tech and digital media community, and the agency's quick response to expedite the permitting process for Johnston’s FM Global - ensuring the company stayed in Rhode Island, were named two of the top 10 stories of the year by the Providence Business News.

• RIEDC Proposes Expedited Review Process to Assist High-Priority Economic Development Prospects

  12/19/2007 - 17:18

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) today announced it will propose new rules to strengthen the agency's expedited permitting process, Certificate of Critical Economic Concern (CCEC). The agency cited the recent decision by commercial property insurer FM Global, Rhode Island's largest private company, to build a new $60 million, 340,000 square-foot headquarters in Johnston, as a model of how expedited review of high priority economic development projects can improve the state's business climate and retain and create high wage jobs in Rhode Island.

• MEDICA Trade Fair Spawns Leads for R.I. Firms

  12/17/2007 - 11:07

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation partnered with other state agencies across New England to attend MEDICA 2007 in Dusseldorf, Germany from November 14–17.

• Innovation Tax Credit Stimulates Investment in Rhode Island Companies

  11/27/2007 - 04:00

  The RIEDC Board of Directors has pre-approved six companies to pursue investments that will be eligible for the state's new Innovation Tax Credit program. The credit will offer investors up to a 50 percent credit on eligible investments, with a maximum credit of $100,000. Proposed by STAC and enacted into law by Governor Donald Carcieri and the General Assembly in 2006, the Innovation Tax Credit is designed to attract and retain serial entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth in high-wage, high-growth industries.

• PBN, RIEDC Honor 2007 Innovation Award Winners

  09/20/2007 - 17:29

  Providence Business News and the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation are thrilled to announce the winners of this year's 2007 Rhode Island Innovation Awards. Launched in 2006, the Rhode Island Innovation Awards honor individuals and organizations that are making innovation central to their activities or have gone beyond the call of duty to help others innovate.

• Matchmaker Event Spurs Success Story

  08/06/2007 - 16:30

  In June, the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation and the Rhode Island Procurement Technical Assistance Center, as members of the Department of Defense Northeast Regional Small Business Council, hosted a three-day spring matchmaker event at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick, where 577 small businesses and 63 prime contractors and federal agencies attended.

• RIEDC Surpasses Governor Carcieri's Goal of 20,000 New Jobs

  07/31/2007 - 03:00

  With the June numbers in from the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Governor Donald L. Carcieri has announced that the state has reached his goal of 20,000 new jobs by 2007. In fact, the state surpassed Carcieri's goal by 100 jobs, with 20,100 new jobs, thanks to a record-high job count in June of 499,100 non-farm jobs.

• RIEDC, Tech Collective and the PBN partner to host 2007 Rhode Island Innovation Awards and Tech Laureates Night

  07/26/2007 - 12:46

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), Providence Business News (PBN) and the Tech Collective are now accepting applications for the annual Rhode Island Innovation Awards program. Awards will be presented at the 2007 Innovation Awards and Tech Laureates Night, a gala celebration of the state's innovators and technology leaders, will be held on September 20, 2007 at Hasbro's world headquarters in Pawtucket, RI.

• Quonset Development Corporation Announces Management Change

  07/13/2007 - 03:00

  Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) executive director and Quonset Development Corporation (QDC) board chairman Saul Kaplan today announced the departure of QDC CEO Geoff Grout. Grout's departure will be effective immediately. "Geoff Grout is a great real estate professional. He made an important contribution to the growth of QDC during his service and I appreciate his work," said Kaplan.

• RIEDC Names J. Michael Saul New Managing Director of Finance Programs

  07/12/2007 - 03:00

  J. Michael Saul has accepted a permanent position at the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) as Managing Director of Finance Programs. Saul will manage the agency's portfolio of financing programs and, after completing a comprehensive review of the state's current financing tools, recommend a plan for updating the platform to better match the needs of Rhode Island companies.

• RIEDC, RIMES Forge New Alliance to Promote Growth in Manufacturing

  05/22/2007 - 03:00

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) and the Rhode Island Manufacturing Extension Service (RIMES) today announced a new alliance aimed at strengthening the state's manufacturing sector. Created in 1996, RIMES provides comprehensive manufacturing solutions to Rhode Island's small and medium-size manufacturers, helping them solve business problems and raise their level of competitiveness and profitability. As part of the collaboration, RIMES will co-locate with RIEDC at the corporation's Valley Street offices.

• Urban Revitalization Fund, RIEDC Form Alliance to Promote Synergy Across Rhode Island's Finance Programs

  01/24/2007 - 04:00

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) and The Urban Revitalization Fund (TURF) announced a new alliance that will strengthen and better align the financing programs offered by both organizations. Through the alliance, TURF will co-locate with RIEDC at the corporation's new offices in the American Locomotive Works Development. In addition, TURF Executive Director Michael Saul will lead a comprehensive review of RIEDC's current financing programs and recommend a plan for updating the platform to better match the needs of Rhode Island companies.

• Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation Moves into American Locomotive Works Development

  01/11/2007 - 04:00

  The Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC) announced that its plans to relocate its offices into the American Locomotive Works (ALCO) development site will occur on January 16.

• Ruby Slippers II

  07/31/2006 - 17:16

  ON MAY 14, 2004, I asserted on this op-ed page that Rhode Island has a bright economic future ("Rhode Island wears ruby slippers"). I claimed that Rhode Island is wearing ruby slippers but that many of us don't realize it.

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