Rhode Island Commerce, Amazon Host Small Business Summit; Spotlight Growth Opportunities in Digital-First Marketplace

Published on Monday, October 21, 2024

Summit highlighted local businesses that have found success selling on Amazon; provided educational information for those looking to start

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Rhode Island Commerce and Amazon welcomed small businesses from across the state this morning for a Small Business Summit focused on the economic benefits that come with successfully expanding a business’s digital footprint.

Held at Rhode Island College and attended by about 75 small business owners, Monday’s Summit featured conversations with locally based small businesses that are already selling products on a global scale via Amazon, as well an educational session targeted at business owners interested in getting started.

“The strength of our state’s economy depends on partnerships that fuel innovation and growth,” said Governor Dan McKee. “Collaborating with Amazon allows us to create quality jobs, invest in infrastructure, support small businesses, and ensure our communities thrive in a rapidly evolving marketplace.”

During Monday’s event, Providence native Toyin Omisore, founder of ROAM Loud, shared with attendees how she scaled her premium brand of activewear and athleisure apparel by selling on Amazon. Omisore is one of more than 1,000 small business owners in Rhode Island who have found success selling on Amazon.

“Small businesses are the foundation of Rhode Island’s economy, and we are committed to providing them with the connections, knowledge and tools they need to bring their products and services to a larger market,” said Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner. “Our growing partnership with Amazon will provide Rhode Island businesses with opportunities to grow and thrive in today’s digital marketplace.” 

"We were thrilled to see so many passionate Rhode Island small business owners come together to share their experiences and insights," said Amazon Senior Manager for Economic Development, Jonathan Greeley. "The Ocean State has been a key growth market for Amazon, and we remain committed to providing the resources and support local entrepreneurs need to succeed in our store and beyond."

Monday’s event was part of Amazon’s commitment to growing its presence in Rhode Island and its partnership with Rhode Island Commerce. Since 2010, Amazon has invested more than $1 billion in its Rhode Island operations as it advances toward opening its 3.8 million-square-foot Fulfillment Center in Johnston later this year. This project has generated roughly 1,500 construction jobs and, once complete and fully operational, will support more than 1,500 permanent jobs.

Amazon is also supporting Rhode Island Commerce’s Small Business Assistance Program (SBAP) through a five-year, $2.75 million commitment. The SBAP helps entrepreneurs and small businesses that are having difficulty obtaining adequate credit from traditional lending organizations. The program focuses on women- and minority-owned enterprises, as well as those in Rhode Island’s underserved communities. 

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