1-401-278-9100
Get Business Assistance Now
1-401-278-9100
Get Business Assistance Now

Why Rhode Island?

Discover a Business-Friendly Environment

Rhode Island is more than a location. It is a partner in your business growth.

The state offers targeted incentives, tax credits, and grant programs designed to support business expansion, job creation, and long-term investment. Rhode Island Commerce works directly with companies to help identify programs, navigate requirements, and structure strategies that support sustainable growth.

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Our Mission

We help businesses launch, grow, and expand in Rhode Island.

The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation works with public, private, and nonprofit partners to strengthen the state’s economy by supporting businesses across all sectors. We provide business assistance, access to funding, workforce initiatives, and regulatory support that helps companies operate, invest, and create jobs in Rhode Island.

Advantages

Rhode Island supports economic growth through statewide initiatives focused on workforce development, small business support, and industry innovation. These programs help employers access skilled talent, support entrepreneurship, and prepare students for in-demand careers, creating a strong foundation for long-term economic stability.

Land and Expand in Rhode Island

Be Where the Action Is

Rhode Island offers strategic access to major Northeast markets while maintaining a compact, business-efficient footprint. From Providence’s innovation economy to Newport’s maritime and defense assets, businesses benefit from proximity to talent, infrastructure, universities, and transportation networks across New England.

Map - RI between NY and Boston


 

Rhode Island sits within the Northeast’s $4.1 trillion regional economy, offering efficient access to Boston and New York markets while operating within a smaller, highly connected state environment.


 

Gateway to New England

Rhode Island provides businesses with efficient regional connectivity across New England and the Northeast through air, rail, marine, and multimodal transportation infrastructure.

Air Travel

Rhode Island businesses benefit from access to Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) for national and international travel.

TF Green Airport in Warwick, RI

Rail Service

Rhode Island’s rail network connects businesses to Boston and New York markets through Amtrak and MBTA commuter service, supporting efficient regional travel for employees, partners, and clients.

Train

Marine Transportation

Rhode Island’s ports, including ProvPort and the Port of Davisville, provide deep-water access for a wide range of cargo and support regional and international trade.

POD Wind Turbine Blades

Statewide Public Transit

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) supports statewide workforce mobility through bus service connecting communities and employment centers.

RIPTA bus stop sign

Access to Talent

Rhode Island offers access to a dense and highly educated talent pipeline supported by regional colleges and universities.

  • 148 colleges and universities within a 60-mile commute of Providence
  • Rhode Island has the highest student density per square mile in the U.S.
  • 250,000+ certificates and degrees awarded annually by colleges and universities.
  • Growing emphasis on STEM, creative, and gaming-related disciplines

Access to Talent - Map of RI

Life in the Ocean State: Where Culture Meets Coastline

With RI's 400 miles (643.74 km) of coastline, no Rhode Islander is ever more than 30 minutes from the shore.

Something for Everyone

Rhode Island 2024 Travel Guide

Lower Cost of Living

Rhode Island offers a lower cost of living compared to major Northeast metro areas, including Boston, helping employers manage labor costs while maintaining regional market access.Average cost of living in RI is 24% lower than in Boston

SOURCE: C2ER Cost of Living Index