We are working to build a strong organization, a strong business community and a strong Rhode Island. Your membership will add to the strength of a collective body that will create the kind of business community, which will help us to sustain and attract other businesses.
As a member, you will receive the benefit of an organization whose leadership is working to create opportunity and build community.
Networking Opportunities: RIBBA hosts various networking events, seminars, and forums where business professionals can gather and expand their customers and contact base. Such events include Mix and Mingle Networking event, Economic Summit, and Candidates Forum. In addition, RIBBA hosts a well -attended Annual Business Awards Gala. Event sponsorship opportunities are available at these events.
Mass Mailings: All RIBBA members have an opportunity to submit event information that can be emailed to more than 5000 recipients. This email blast keeps members up to date on not only current and upcoming events, but also RIBBA news, and membership information.
Social Media: The Association maintains a very active Facebook page and Twitter. These social media outlets inform members of the latest in RIBBA news and events. These sites are updated frequently and provide great exposure for the Association members.
Web Page Advertising Opportunities: RIBBA members can take out ad space on this website for minimum costs and have maximum exposure of their products and services. Contact Lisa Ranglin at the Association to find out more.
Media and Publicity: RIBBA has strong working relationships with local media outlets and will work with you to publicize newsworthy business items and stories, as well as to help orchestrate grand openings or special events, visited by elected officials.
RIBBA Referral Program: Every day, the Association is asked to make referrals for a wide range of products and services. It is our policy to only refer RIBBA members!
RIBBA Directory: In 2015, RIBBA will publish an annual business directory. This directory will be distributed to RIBBA member businesses, who are encouraged to engage with fellow members on their products and services. The directory will also be distributed to the public. RIBBA members also receive a reduced rate to purchase advertising in the directory.
Business Advocacy: If you need an advocate on your side at City Hall or with state agencies, we will guide you through the governmental bureaucracy and speak on your behalf at agency meetings and hearings. Rhode Island is a targeted investment community and certain companies may be eligible for Enterprise Zone benefits, tax abatements and other financial incentives.
Small Business Counseling: Business counseling is available for FREE to new, growing and/or start-up businesses. RIBBA offers this service in conjunction with SBA – Small Business Administration and the SCORE program - Senior Corp of Retired Executives.
Academic - Speed Reading, and a Creative Writing Course.
RIBBA Purchasing Policy: RIBBA only does business with RIBBA members. As a member, you will be added to our vendor list and given an opportunity to submit bids for relevant products and services; and/or be assured that RIBBA will beseech your business when applicable.
Insurance: The Association offers small business owners a variety of competitively priced plans through our local member insurance agents. Such products include but are not limited to: Life insurance, Medicare Advantage Plans, Health Savings Account, Cobra Administration, Worksite Homeowners & Auto, Dental Insurance and much more. The Association will get you in contact with local area agents who insure RIBBA Members so you can find the plan that works for you!
Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: RIBBA will have your opening or ceremony photographed and sent to the Providence Journal for newspaper publication. In addition, RIBBA will distribute your invitation to City/State officials, RIBBA Board of Directors and RIBBA members.
Quarterly E-Newsletter: All RIBBA members will receive the RIBBA newsletter directly to their email inbox on a quarterly basis.
Opportunity to Serve on Standing Committees: RIBBA currently has the following committees in place. You are encouraged to join any of these committees so we may continue to have a shared vision and targeted approach: Advocacy and Policy, Event Planning/Fund Development, Budget and Finance Planning, Marketing and Communications, Training and Development, Membership, Administrative, and Technology, Website and Social Media.