Business Development

We offer programs and services aimed at helping small businesses grow, scale operations, build sustainable wealth, and create jobs that positively impact their communities.

Business Mentorship

Work with a business owner to gain the perspective and confidence needed to grow and sustain your business.

Business Growth Program

Our resources are designed to help businesses grow and scale. RIBBA is uniquely positioned to be the key to grow Rhode Island's economy.

Get Your Business Started

RIBBA is here to provide the mentorship, resources, and connections you need to start your business.

Apply Today

Our Business Development Services Include:

One-on-One Business Development Support

Work with a Small Business Specialist to navigate business challenges, increase business skills, receive technical assistance, and drive sales.

One-On-One Business Counseling

Take advantage of our personalized advisory service where an experienced mentor provides tailored support to business owners. This individualized guidance helps clients identify challenges, develop strategies, and enhance decision-making skills, empowering them to achieve their business goals and navigate operational complexities.

Business Certification Assistance

Interested in obtaining your MBE/ WBE Certification? Visit your online portal to get started. RIBBA also educates members on why certification with the state of Rhode Island can increase their contracting opportunities, and help increase their capacity to bid with larger-scale public and private contracts.

Business Mentorship

Work with a business owner to gain the perspective and confidence needed to grow and sustain your business.

Technical Assistance, Marketing & Social Media Support

Work with a RIBBA Small Business Consultant to take advantage of social media, e-mail and social networks—like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram—to market products and services, engage with existing customers, and reach new ones.

Financial Analysis

Work with a Small Business Specialist to evaluate the financial performance of your business. This involves analyzing financial statements, ratios, and other financial data to gain insights into your company’s financial health.

Workforce Development

RIBBA offers leadership, training and development for your employees, development that aim to maximize their job success and career pathway.

Trainings & Workshops

RIBBA offers quality educational opportunities including leadership and mentorship training programs aims to build capacity and develop necessary professional skills. We also offer business development resources that help our members manage and grow successful businesses.

Website Development

Work with a RIBBA Small Business Consultant to ensure your website is user-focused, easy to navigate, and SEO-friendly. This helps to reach more customers, boost sales, and increase revenue.

Business Pitch Competition

Every year, we proudly host our Young Adult Business Pitch Competition, where we empower and support the next generation of entrepreneurs right here in Rhode Island.

Legal Services

Work with a RIBBA Small Business Consultant to support you and your business and achieve your goals with expert advice and skilled representation. It is best to have law support on your side to help prevent issues before they arise.

Access to Working Capital

We offer micro-loan programs and grant opportunities.

Trusted by Our Clients:

"There’s strength in being curious and open to learning. No one has all the answers starting out, and that’s okay. What matters is the willingness to grow. That’s exactly what RIBBA offers: a safe, supportive, and value-driven space where minority entrepreneurs can learn, connect, and build without judgment."
Milen King, Owner of FAD Services Inc.
“If I could tell other entrepreneurs one thing, it’s this: don’t give up. Even when it feels impossible, keep pushing. Even when the progress is slow, keep showing up. Daybreak always comes”
Carla Donatien, Owner of HighClass Bookkeeping & Tax Services
“Don’t try to do it all alone. While it’s tempting to wear every hat in your business, true growth and sustainability come when you invite others into the journey. There are people, programs, and resources ready to help, you have to be willing to seek them out. “
Jessica Bankston, Owner of Virtual Oasis Solutions
“RIBBA has given me a platform to connect with my community and meet individuals who have been tremendous in the growth of my business.”
Charise Wilson, Owner of Workforce Ready Solutions LLC
"RIBBA has motivated me to continue to fight not just for myself but for my community and its future."
Crystal Cardones, Owner of Crystal Clear Marketing
"RIBBA is like a GPS tool for my business."
Vennicia Kingston, Owner of Eagle Eye Post Construction Services LLC
"This loan has helped my business Urban Thread tremendously... I was able to reach a wider audience through marketing and advertising my small business online and through local publications. Effective advertising, along with the right tools, helps to bring in the sales and target specific demographics. This loan also allowed me to make a few aesthetic improvements. These changes have brought better reviews and a returning clientele."
Mindy Britto, Owner of Urban Thread
"RIBBA gets the job done! The team understands our needs as a company and meets us where we at."
Elisabeth Borno, owner of Born-O-Uniforms