MIDDLETOWN, RI (June 9, 2026) |
Small Business Collective (SBC) is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $75,000 Innovation Network Matching Grant from the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation.
The award will support SBC's efforts to strengthen Rhode Island's entrepreneurial ecosystem by creating opportunities for small business owners to connect, collaborate, learn, and grow together. The funding comes as SBC continues to build momentum ahead of the opening of its physical hub in Middletown and the expansion of its programming.
Founded on the belief that entrepreneurs thrive when they are connected to one another, Small Business Collective is building a new model for small business support—one centered on community, relationships, and shared success. "Entrepreneurs often feel like they have to figure things out on their own," said Mollie Frazer Williams, Executive Director of Small Business Collective. "At SBC, we believe that the strongest businesses are built in community. This grant helps us continue creating spaces where entrepreneurs can learn from one another, share resources, solve challenges together, and build meaningful relationships that strengthen both their businesses and our local economy."
“Congratulations to Small Business Collective on receiving an Innovation Network Matching Grant,” said Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor. “This program was established to strengthen the supports and resources available to Rhode Island’s small and growing companies. Through technical assistance, flexible coworking space, and opportunities for learning and collaboration, Small Business Collective is helping advance that mission.”
SBC's programming includes initiatives such as Open Table Dinners, Community Meetups, Collective Roundtables, educational workshops, and partnerships with organizations across the region that provide expertise, mentorship, and business support services.
The organization is also developing a physical home for entrepreneurs at its 12,000-square-foot facility in Middletown, which will offer coworking space, private offices, meeting rooms, events, and a welcoming environment designed to foster collaboration across industries and business stages.
The Innovation Network Matching Grant will help SBC expand programming, strengthen operational infrastructure, increase access to resources for entrepreneurs, and continue building a connected network of business owners and support organizations throughout Southern New England.
"We are incredibly grateful to Rhode Island Commerce for its support and confidence in the vision of Small Business Collective," Williams said. "This investment is ultimately an investment in Rhode Island’s small business community and the entrepreneurs who work every day to create jobs, solve problems, and contribute to vibrant local economies."
Since launching in 2025, SBC has attracted a growing network of members, Impact Partners, educational institutions, and community organizations committed to supporting entrepreneurship through collaboration rather than competition.
For more information about Small Business Collective and engagement opportunities, visit: https://sbc-ri.org