Innovation Network Matching Grants
Forecasted
Innovation Network Matching Grants support organizations providing Rhode Island small businesses with technical assistance, flexible space, or access to capital to help them innovate, grow, and compete.
Funder: Rhode Island Commerce Corporation
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2027 (application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Minimum $50,000; typically $50,000–$125,000, with no maximum; projects typically run one year
Summary: Grants support organizations helping Rhode Island small businesses innovate through technical assistance, flexible space, or access to capital.
Key Information: Applicants must provide a cash or in-kind match.
Description
Rhode Island Commerce Corporation runs this program as part of its Innovation Initiatives Portfolio. It funds organizations that help small businesses grow and compete by providing technical assistance, space on flexible terms, access to capital, or a combination of these services. Support may also help businesses evaluate a transition to employee ownership.
The program targets small and underserved businesses and businesses in fields including life sciences, the ocean economy, defense, food and agriculture, financial empowerment, technology commercialization, and critical technologies such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology. Its goal is to strengthen the networks and resources available to Rhode Island small businesses.
