Black business professionals collaborating
Serving Rhode Island Since 2010

Empowering Black Business Leaders in Rhode Island

A community-driven association supporting entrepreneurs, innovators, and professionals through connection, advocacy, and opportunity.

500+
Businesses Supported
20+
Annual Events
1000+
Connections Made
Our Foundation

Building Stronger Businesses Together

Uniting entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders to create a thriving business ecosystem

Business collaboration
Business workshop
Community gathering
14+
Years Serving
Rhode Island

The Rhode Island Black Business Association brings together entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders to strengthen the local business ecosystem. Founded on principles of unity and empowerment, we have become a cornerstone of economic development in our state.

Our mission is to create opportunities, provide resources, and build powerful networks that support long-term business growth and economic empowerment. We believe that when Black businesses thrive, our entire community prospers.

Mission-Driven

Creating pathways to economic empowerment for Black entrepreneurs across Rhode Island.

Community First

Building lasting relationships that strengthen our local business ecosystem.

Growth Focused

Providing resources and mentorship that drive sustainable business success.

Inclusive Support

Welcoming all who believe in our mission of economic equity and opportunity.

What We Offer

Programs & Opportunities

Comprehensive resources designed to empower your business at every stage of growth

Business Mentorship

Connect with experienced entrepreneurs who provide guidance, share insights, and help you navigate challenges on your business journey.

Networking Events

Regular gatherings that bring together business owners, investors, and industry experts to foster meaningful professional relationships.

Entrepreneur Development

Structured programs designed to accelerate your business growth, from startup fundamentals to scaling strategies.

Funding Resources

Access to grants, loans, and investment opportunities specifically curated for Black-owned businesses in Rhode Island.

Community Partnerships

Strategic alliances with local organizations, corporations, and government entities that create mutual growth opportunities.

Leadership Workshops

Intensive sessions focused on developing essential leadership skills, business acumen, and personal brand building.

Ready to take your business to the next level?

Explore Membership Benefits
Our Reach

Impact in Our Community

Real numbers that reflect our commitment to empowering Black businesses in Rhode Island

0+

Business Owners Supported

0+

Annual Networking Events

0+

Community Connections Created

0+

Success Stories

“When Black businesses succeed, our entire community rises. Together, we're building generational wealth and lasting economic impact.”

Rhode Island Black Business Association

Success Stories

Voices from Our Network

Hear from business owners whose journeys have been transformed through our community

The RIBBA mentorship program completely transformed my approach to business. Within a year of joining, I doubled my revenue and expanded my team from 3 to 12 employees.
Marcus Johnson
Marcus Johnson
Founder, MJ Tech Solutions
The connections I made through RIBBA networking events opened doors I never knew existed. I secured my largest contract through a relationship built at one of their quarterly meetups.
Dr. Angela Williams
Dr. Angela Williams
CEO, Williams Healthcare Consulting
As a second-generation business owner, RIBBA helped me modernize our operations while honoring my father's legacy. Their funding resources made our expansion possible.
David Thompson
David Thompson
Owner, Thompson Construction
The leadership workshops gave me confidence to pitch to larger clients. RIBBA isn't just a membership – it's a family that genuinely wants to see you succeed.
Keisha Brooks
Keisha Brooks
Founder, Brooks Marketing Agency
Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about joining and benefiting from our community

Membership is open to all Black business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals in Rhode Island. We also welcome allies and supporters who share our mission of economic empowerment. Whether you're just starting out or have an established business, there's a place for you in our community.

New entrepreneurs have access to our comprehensive startup toolkit, including business plan templates, financial planning workshops, one-on-one mentorship matching, legal consultations, and access to our network of investors and funding opportunities. We also offer quarterly bootcamps specifically designed for early-stage businesses.

Yes! We host over 20 networking events annually, including monthly mixers, quarterly industry-specific meetups, an annual business summit, and special events featuring guest speakers and panels. These events are designed to foster meaningful connections that lead to real business opportunities.

Businesses can collaborate through sponsorship opportunities, participating in our vendor marketplace, joining our business-to-business referral network, or partnering on community initiatives. We also facilitate introductions between members for potential partnerships and joint ventures.

Consultations begin with a complimentary 30-minute discovery session where we learn about your business goals and challenges. Based on this conversation, we'll recommend specific programs, connect you with relevant mentors, and create a personalized roadmap for your growth within our community.

We offer tiered membership options to accommodate businesses at different stages. Our Standard membership starts at $150/year, Professional tier at $350/year with additional benefits, and Enterprise membership for larger organizations. Scholarships are available for qualifying early-stage entrepreneurs.

Still have questions? We're here to help!

Schedule a Free Consultation
Get Started

Let's Talk About Your Business Goals

Schedule a consultation with our team to learn how the Rhode Island Black Business Association can support your journey to success.

Flexible Scheduling

Choose a date and time that works best for your schedule

30-Minute Discovery Call

Free consultation to understand your business needs

Reach Out

Connect With Us

We're here to answer your questions and welcome you to our community

RHODE ISLAND BLACK BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Visit Us

100 Cathedral Ave

Providence, RI 02908

Get Directions

Office Hours

Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Saturday: By appointment

Sunday: Closed