Helping entreprenuers launch and grow
throughout Rhode Island
Support for minority-owned businesses in Rhode Island
¡Hablamos español!
SERVICES
Helping minority and women entrepreneurs succeed through targeted education, mentoring, networking and funding support
RESOURCES
Support your entrepreneurial growth from startup to scaling up with the Urban Ventures Academy, program materials and business tools
NETWORK
Connect with local entrepreneurs, companies and organizations to explore strategic business partnerships and discover job opportunities
Trusted by hundreds of micro-business and small business owners in Rhode Island
550+
BUSINESSES SUPPORTED
Since 1999
900+
jobs created
*2014 - 2024
$20.9Mil
Revenue Growth
*2014 - 2024
November 2024 - February 2025
Industry Focused Workshop Series for Minority & Women-Owned Businesses
Interested in growing or starting a business in one of these industries?
Construction
For contractors offering services for residential and commercial properties, including construction, specialty trades (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), home improvement and renovations, landscaping and more...
Food
For business owners in the food & beverage industry from production to distribution and serving, including restaurants & food trucks, caterers, private chefs, specialty food producers, farmers and more...
Childcare
For childcare centers, in-home daycare providers, tutors and early education professionals. Topics include licensing, curriculum development, employee management, navigating regulations and more...
General Business
Workshops for all business types, providing essential skills in marketing, financial management, branding, legal compliance and more, helping business owners across industries prepare to launch and grow strong.
Don't miss out
Exclusive Events
Education Programs
Funding Opportunities
Tools & Resources
Legislative Updates
Coaching Sessions
Receive the UrbanVentures newsletter
Homepage Subscribe
Thank you for subscribing!
Oops, there was an error sending your message. Please refresh the page or contact us at info@urbanventuresri.org
1-on-1 Coaching
Personalized guidance from our experienced mentors to help you overcome challenges, refine your strategies and achieve your goals sustainably.
SUPPORT ECOSYSTEM
Connect with trusted volunteer advisors and service providers—including accountants, lawyers and marketers—to support you at every stage.
CAPITAL & FUNDING
Preparation for grant, investment and loan opportunities with expert guidance so you can secure financial resources to grow your business.
Supporting minority- and women-owned businesses at every stage of growth
We bring together passionate individuals and organizations dedicated to fostering growth and success in our diverse community by helping business owners at all stages. Here, honesty and equity aren’t just values; they are the core of everything we do.
STARTING YOUR ADVENTURE?
We have helped hundreds of local entrepreneurs with hands-on support to turn their ideas into reality. Start your journey with a strong support system and become part of our vibrant community!
Dollar for dollar, Urban Ventures is one of Rhode Island’s best investments for economic development.
Dr. Edward Mazze
Former Dean of the URI School of Business Administration
From the very first meeting, Urban Ventures understood my vision and has been instrumental in helping me think more deeply about my idea of communicating it than even I had first imagined. This support is tremendously beneficial to me as I launch my business.
Idania Abreu
Founder, Adoras Dream
Urban Ventures helped me to clarify the ideas I had for my business, enabling me to deliver the great value for my clients I had envisioned. After only a few sessions, I began earning revenue from the business model we designed. The experience has been truly transformational, empowering, and profitable.
Rosa DeCastillo
Founder, DIOS Digital Marketing
Urban Ventures is the guiding arm a small business needs in those first twelve months. Whether it's mapping out strategy to secure the next client, or the practical advice on interacting with a current client, Urban Ventures IS the reason for Ann Clanton Communications’ positive outcomes.
Ann Clanton
Founder, Ann Clanton Communications
Urban Ventures has been a blessing to my business and me. From helping me really understand and express my business’ mission to accompanying me in devising an effective monetization strategy, the organization has pushed my business forward in innumerable ways. Urban Ventures is a gift to entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial communities, as well as one of the most powerful business catalysts out there. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to grow a successful and purposeful business.
Solange Diallo Lopes
Founder, The Corporate Sister
Introducing
LaunchPad 2.0
Craft your company's new website for FREE using our simple and powerful platform and get discounted web design and marketing support from our trusted partners. No hidden costs and no long-term commitment.