
About Us
What is SupplyRI?
SupplyRI is a program within Rhode Island Commerce that connects some of Rhode Island’s largest buyers (our Anchors) with capable, small local businesses from all sectors (our Suppliers), empowering them to grow and thrive. Through targeted resources and strategic partnerships, we champion local procurement and work to create a more resilient supply chain.
Rhode Island suppliers can join the SupplyRI community at no cost.
Why Work with SupplyRI?

Benefits for Anchors
SupplyRI collaborates with Anchors to identify specific procurement needs and challenges. We leverage our network of vetted local businesses to match these needs with qualified suppliers. We offer a project-based service model, providing targeted support and solutions when and where needed.
Benefits for Suppliers
SupplyRI partners with resource partners to provide tailored support for small businesses looking to grow. We facilitate connections with Anchor institutions based on identified needs and capabilities. We focus on helping businesses develop the capacity to meet the demands of larger clients.

Value to Anchors
An Anchor is a leading institution or company in the state that leverages its significant purchasing power to actively support local businesses.
We understand that Anchors seek to
- Diversify Supply Chains: Reduce reliance on single or distant suppliers to enhance resilience and mitigate risk.
- Foster Innovation: Access specialized skills and creative solutions offered by local businesses.
- Streamline Local Sourcing: Efficiently identify and vet qualified local suppliers, optimizing time and resources.
- Demonstrate Community Impact: Showcase a tangible commitment to local economic development and positive social impact.
SupplyRI supports Anchors with project-specific needs, strategic sourcing initiatives and supplier discovery.

Value to Suppliers
A supplier is any small or medium business in Rhode Island that aims to grow, discover new opportunities, and scale effectively.
SupplyRI offers valuable resources to help small businesses navigate challenges such as:
- Uncertainty in Corporate Engagement: Understanding the often complex requirements and processes of working with large corporations.
- Resource and Connection Gaps for Expansion: Feeling unprepared to scale due to a lack of necessary resources and industry connections.
- Networking Limitations: Struggling to effectively connect and build relationships within the Rhode Island business ecosystem.
SupplyRI provides growing small businesses with the practical support they need, connecting them to resources, expert guidance, and strategic partnerships with buyers and stakeholders.
Join SupplyRI to Grow and thrive
Register Your Business
Ready to join the SupplyRI community? Start by registering on our platform to build your business profile. We will reach out to schedule a brief introductory call to learn more about your business and explore how SupplyRI can support your growth goals.
Access Training and Events
Become a SupplyRI member and gain access to Rhode Island’s supplier training, workshops, and events. Explore opportunities to participate in matchmaking, master your company pitch and learn how to procure with large corporations. Discover upcoming events statewide.
Our Anchors
Case Study
Be Moore Interpreting and CVS Health
CVS Health's 10th Annual Executive Learning Series Summit, held in Rhode Island, partnered with Roger Williams University to empower diverse suppliers nationwide. SupplyRI nominated eight Rhode Island businesses, including Be Moore Interpreting, whose owner found the program transformative for leadership and business growth.
EC Power Inc. and KSA Marketing
EC Power is gaining traction in the U.S. through a strategic partnership with Rhode Island-based KSA Marketing, which has enhanced their messaging and broadened their reach. This collaboration, facilitated by SupplyRI, has led to stronger branding and more effective outreach for EC Power's innovative CHP systems.
Wrights Dairy Farm & Bakery
Wright's Dairy Farm & Bakery, a Rhode Island institution since 1914, has expanded its reach after upgrading production equipment and participating in the annual Farm to Institution Procurement Gathering. Their expansion and connections facilitated by SupplyRI resulted in their dairy products now being available at Roch’s Fresh Foods and Dave’s Fresh Marketplace.
What Our Community is Saying
"We have benefitted from the collaborative environment that Supply RI has fostered among the other Anchors within the program; the ability to share mutual challenges, insights, and best practices proves to be invaluable as we honor our commitment to work with local businesses from Rhode Island." – Monette Knapick, Executive Director, Enterprise Procurement Supplier Engagement
"The SupplyRI team is doing the necessary and noble work of creating the conditions to maximize business transactions within Rhode Island’s economic ecosystem. Through the Anchor Partner Board Quarterly Meetings, SupplyRI assembles the largest buyers in the State to continuously understand their organizations’ strategic purchasing needs. With these insights, SupplyRI works to build out a robust network of capable and diverse suppliers in order to meet the needs of major buyers." – Greg Garvin, VP and Director of Global Purchasing at Gilbane Construction
"When my WBENC renewal was caught in a significant backlog, threatening client contracts, SupplyRI and an anchor partner advocated on my behalf to expedite the process. In 2024, SupplyRI introduced KSA to a global business that opened an office in Rhode Island. This connection resulted in EC Power becoming both a client and a valued partner." – Katie Schibler Conn, KSA Marketing CEO and Founder
"Being a part of the Supply RI network has been instrumental in gaining new business. We have successfully opened new accounts for hand sanitizers, infection control products, and paper goods during the pandemic. We have been busy sourcing new products to help companies transition back to work." – David Spencer, CEO, Atlantic Paper & Supply
Get In Touch
Contact Us Today
Connect with Rhode Island Commerce
Your Business is Our Business
SupplyRI is a program within Rhode Island Commerce, the state’s economic development agency focused on fostering business growth, attracting new investments, creating jobs and strengthening the state’s economy.
We provide businesses with the resources they need to land, grow and flourish in Rhode Island. Our suite of support includes grants, loans, tax incentives, regulatory streamlining and tailored business assistance.
Contact a Rhode Island Commerce business advisor today to learn more about our programs and services.
(401) 521-HELP
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