About Us
Behind every small business is a story worth knowing...
The
Rhode Island Small Business HUB (HUB) wants to know your story. And together, we will make small business ownership a pathway for economic empowerment for all Rhode Islanders.
Our Mission
Empowering Small Businesses to Fuel our Rhode Island Economy
About Us
We understand how challenging it can be to start, grow or scale a small business. Often, small business owners need to be the CEO, accountant, marketing specialist, IT expert, and many more roles. The Rhode Island Small Business HUB (HUB) is here to help.
The HUB offers a wide range of resources and services to help entrepreneurs start and grow successful businesses. Our services are free to all qualified small businesses in Rhode Island.
Our Funders
The HUB is managed by Skills for Rhode Island’s Future, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit economic development organization, funded by the US Congress, the US Economic Development Administration, and the State of Rhode Island.
HUB Team
The HUB has expert advisors to help you with your business planning and operation needs. We provide customized solutions for starting, growing or scaling your small businesses. And the best part, our services are free to all qualified small businesses in Rhode Island.
Nina | Executive Director
As the proud daughter of immigrant parents who achieved economic success through small business ownership, I have witnessed firsthand how small businesses can shape a person, a family, and a community. Our HUB team feels privileged and honored to support your small business dreams!
risbHUB@skillsforri.com
English
Melba | VP of Economic Development
As the daughter of a shoemaker, I grew up appreciating and understanding the opportunities and impact of small business ownership. I really love everything small businesses represent to our local communities. Small businesses are truly the backbone of our economy and a path to economic success for many. I want to ensure our HUB provides the tools you need to succeed and thrive in small business ownership.
mdepenaaffigne@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
Inglés - Español
Tania | Hub Director
As a wife and mother of small business owners, I am amazed at how important it is to have good background knowledge regarding the process of opening a small business. New business owners want to thrive, be self-sustainable, and become successful. However, unforeseen challenges arise, and it can be difficult to navigate unknown systems. Therefore, having a small business HUB will be instrumental for all Small Businesses.
tquezada@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
Inglés - Español
Sanjay | Legal Advisor
As a Rhode Island small business owner for 30 years, I have gained experience in all facets of running a business. I understand the demands small business owners face on a daily basis while having to plan for the future. Let me help you navigate the start-up, planning, and growth of your small business.
spande@skillsforri.com
English
Akilah | Legal Services Manager
For over 13 years, I’ve helped small business owners protect, optimize, and monetize their assets. As a legal professional and nine-year business owner, I understand entrepreneurs' challenges. I work closely with my clients to ensure they have the correct legal structures, contracts, and protections, empowering them to mitigate risks and build sustainable, profitable businesses. Whether securing intellectual property, structuring agreements, or navigating compliance, I aim to simplify the legal complexities so they can focus on growth and success.
aphillip@skillsforri.com
English
James | Accounting Specialist
As a resident of Rhode Island for 23 years, I have seen businesses start and grow over the years. As a small business owner myself, I know of the tremendous challenges that exist in the day-to-day management of that business. I am excited to use the lessons that I have learned over the past many years to help small businesses thrive.
jcogswell@skillsforri.com
English
Dasiel | Program Coordinator
I am proud to be part of a team that supports people’s dreams in authentic, palpable, and substantial ways while being sensitive and aware of the needs of Small Businesses and the people who own them. What better way to hold up my community than to be part of an agency that is driven by impact.
Allow me to be part of your Dream.
drondon@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
Inglés - Español
Anthony | Program Operations Specialist
With over a decade in government, I’m passionate about fostering connections and collaboration. My experience in municipal government, event coordination, and business development enables me to help organizations create impactful, growth-driven initiatives.
aaquino@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
Olinda | Small Business Services Administrator
For over 20 years, I’ve been passionate about empowering communities across New England by helping individuals, families, and businesses access the resources they need to grow and build generational wealth. It’s my privilege to share my experience and expertise to guide business owners in scaling their enterprises and reaching the next level of success.
Ana | Program Coordinator
It fills me with pride to know that I am part of this great team where I can help navigate and collaborate with small business owners and help their businesses flourish.
avelez@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
Inglés - Español
Rose | Program Coordinator
Growing up, I worked in my family's small business. On a personal level, I truly appreciate how important the impact a successful small business can have. From cashier to management, my years of experience can help your business prosper.
rlefevre@skillsforri.com
English - Haitian Creole
Sreypich | Program Coordinator
I understand small business owners' challenges—from navigating resources to managing growth. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, I’ve seen firsthand how the right support helps businesses thrive, even in tough times.
Every small business starts with a dream, and it’s an honor to help entrepreneurs turn their visions into reality. Our HUB is here to provide the tools and support you need to succeed, grow, and inspire others.
smckoy@skillsforri.com
English - Khmer
Merrie | Program Coordinator
As a lifelong Rhode Islander, I love the close-knit, community-driven spirit that defines our state. Rhode Island’s small business landscape is built on innovation, creativity, and resilience—qualities that inspire me every day in my role at the RI Small Business HUB.
I’m proud to support entrepreneurs at every stage, whether they're just starting out or looking to grow. Our team is here to guide and empower them on their journey.
mbautista@skillsforri.com
English
Angel | Systems Project Coordinator
I believe that information is something that needs to be accessible to everyone. Small businesses are entities that struggle a lot with accessing crucial information. These businesses play a pivotal role in any community's economic and social fabric. They are essential engines of innovation, job creation, and economic growth. That is why I feel so passionate about adding my part in making these small businesses strive, grow, and better support our economy and community.
aguzman@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
Inglés - Español
Giancarlo | Business Support Intern
From an early age, I’ve embraced leadership through service at Emanuel PVD, where I continue to grow in responsibility, teamwork, and faith. In both church and professional roles, I strive to lead with purpose and passion, always working to make a positive and lasting impact.
gguzman@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
Inglés - Español
Karen | Americorps Fellow
I’m passionate about helping others and thrive on providing the support and resources people need. Being part of a collaborative, growth-oriented team inspires me every day.
As someone who aspires to own a business, I value the skills and experience I gain. Whether supporting my colleagues or delivering excellent service, I’m always driven to learn, grow, and make a difference.
ksaint-hilaire@skillsforri.com
English - Spanish
HUB FAQS
-
What is the Rhode Island Small Business HUB?
The Rhode Island Small Business HUB (HUB) is a one-stop-shop for entrepreneurs and small business owners to access helpful information, advice, and assistance on various topics, such as business planning, financing, marketing, legal, and more. The HUB is designed to be user-friendly and easy to navigate, allowing users to quickly find the information they need to help them achieve their business goals. The HUB is managed by Skills for Rhode Island’s Future.
-
What is the HUB advantage?
The HUB is designed specifically to help start, grow, and scale small businesses in Rhode Island. We have a network of partners you can access, plus the HUB provides consultative services to assist your business in critical services such as legal, bookkeeping, marketing, technology, and human resources. A full list of services can be found on our website www.risbHUB.com. By taking advantage of these resources, small business owners can increase their chances of success and achieve their goals more quickly and effectively.
-
If I receive support/services from the HUB, do I have to pay for it?
No, you don’t have to pay for our services; our services are free to all qualified RI small businesses. To see if you qualify for the HUB services, we encourage you to connect with our team. Call us at 401-BIZ-2222 (401-249-2222).
-
I have not yet started my business, but I would like support to launch my business. Can the HUB help me?
Yes, we have on-site staff and resources available to help you get started. We provide free one-on-one business counseling and can help you with registering your business, financial analysis, business planning, market research, and more.
-
How do you define a small business?
A small business is generally defined as a privately operated business that has a relatively small number of employees and generates modest annual revenues. However, the specific definition of a small business may vary depending on our funding requirements or the programs we offer. Since our definition of a small business may vary, we encourage you to call us at
401-BIZ-2222 (401-249-2222) to inquire about services available to your small business.
-
My small business is a nonprofit organization, do I qualify?
Yes, the HUB believes Rhode Island nonprofit organizations are small businesses and provide critical employment and economic opportunities for our local and state communities. All services available to small businesses also include nonprofit organizations.
-
How would I know if I qualify for your services?
To receive support from the HUB, you must be or plan to be an established small business in Rhode Island, which means you are either registered in Rhode Island or plan to launch your business in Rhode Island. If you have an e-commerce business that is based in Rhode Island, this qualifies as having a “physical presence.”
-
Can the HUB assist small businesses in languages other than English?
Yes, our services are linguistically and culturally relevant, additionally the HUB has team members that are multi-lingual. All materials and resources for HUB services and programs will be immediately available in English and Spanish, plus other languages upon request. The HUB may use third party translation services for languages other than English and Spanish.
-
Do you provide accommodation for business owners with disabilities?
Yes, we provide accommodation for business owners with disabilities. We encourage you to contact a program coordinator by calling 401-BIZ-2222 (401-249-2222) to discuss your needs.
-
Can the HUB help me with access to capital funding or other funding opportunities?
Yes, the HUB provides capital readiness services and once you are ready, we can connect you with trusted lenders with whom we work closely. Currently, our capital funding partners offer loans that may be used for a variety of business operations.
The HUB also operates different programs which may include grant funding opportunities. The grant funding opportunities are not always available, and funding may not be guaranteed. To learn more about current grant funding opportunities, please contact a member of our HUB team by calling 401-BIZ-2222 (401-249-2222).
-
How do I access services from the HUB?
You can complete a contact request form online at https://www.risbHUB.com/contact or call us at 401-BIZ-2222 (401-249-2222). If you contact us online, a HUB team member will follow-up to schedule a time to discuss your ideas and needs.
-
What if I need services that are not advertised or provided by the HUB?
If the services you need are outside of the list of services advertised, we encourage you to contact us. Our HUB team will work with you to see if there may be services available to you with one of our program partners or other agencies in Rhode Island supporting small businesses.
If you have additional questions that may not have been answered under this FAQ, please contact a HUB team member by calling 401-BIZ-2222 (401-249-2222) or email us risbHUB@skillsforri.com.
