Mar 31, 2025 Join us in Celebrating 15 Years of Impact on 401Gives
We are thrilled to celebrate a significant milestone—RIBBA is turning 15! Over the past decade and a half, we have dedicated ourselves to empowering hardworking small business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals throughout Rhode Island, striving to eliminate economic disparities and build stronger communities.
As we reflect on our journey since 2010, we take great pride in reaching out to over 6,000 small businesses and providing essential services to more than 1,500 of them. We have empowered 50 M/WBE clients to thrive, contributing more than $27 million to the state’s economy and successfully securing $1.9 million in capital, fostering growth and opportunity throughout Rhode Island. These accomplishments highlight RIBBA’s crucial role in impacting the state’s economy, creating over 3,000 jobs, and changing real lives. Additionally, we report that participants in our Workforce Development Programs represent employees from over 60 employers, reinforcing our commitment to strengthening the workforce. With an impressive 98% graduation rate, over 215 individuals trained, and 1260 mentorship hours given, these programs directly address vital community issues such as reducing food insecurity, acquiring better-paying jobs, facilitating homeownership, and fostering financial security.
Our Impact
As we look forward to the important work ahead—especially during 401Gives on Tuesday, April 1st, and Wednesday, April 2nd,—we are reminded of the pressing challenges we face. Federal grants are essential for funding programs that train our workforce, support small businesses, and address critical economic disparities. Unfortunately, the current political climate has resulted in a lack of financial support, severely impacting our ability to serve those who need us most. We have already reduced our staff and are alarmingly close to a point where we may no longer be able to effectively carry out our mission-driven work. Despite the challenges, RIBBA remains dedicated to serving our community through robust programming in Small Business Development, Workforce Development, and Mentorship.
This situation is not just about RIBBA; it encompasses the need to safeguard opportunities, strengthen local economies, and ensure that underserved and marginalized communities receive the necessary support. A lack of sufficient resources puts our vital programs at risk. This forces organizations like RIBBA to navigate an increasingly challenging environment.
RIBBA is a grassroots organization that will increasingly need to rely on the generosity of people like you. People who believe in economic justice and equal opportunity. People who share our vision and see the value in the work that we do. Your contribution is not just a donation; it is an investment in opportunity and generational wealth-building for Rhode Island families. We also invite you to become a member of RIBBA. Membership in the association is open to everyone—not just business owners—who wish to empower themselves to succeed in their careers and contribute positively to their community.
Now, more than ever, Rhode Island cannot afford to lose RIBBA. We need you. With every dollar you give, you help us expand our programs. Your support is crucial as we work to close the wealth gap and ensure that all Rhode Islanders have the chance to thrive.
Please give today to help ensure that our doors remain open and our work continues. Mark your calendars for 401Gives on April 1st through the 2nd, and bookmark our giving link to donate on those days. Thank you for donating and for being an essential part of the change. Here’s to 15 years of RIBBA and to many more to come!
The RIBBA Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and serves as the charitable arm of RIBBA.