PROVIDENCE, RI – Governor Dan McKee announced the opening of the first phase of applications for the RI Rebounds Technical Assistance Program, managed by the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation and implemented by Skills for Rhode Island’s Future.

The first phase of applications is open to professionals who wish to serve as technical assistance vendors. The program is seeking vendors to support small businesses in the following areas:

    Accounting & Bookkeeping
    Legal Advice & Services
    Marketing, Communications, Branding & Public Relations
    Customer Data & User Experience Analytics
    Strategic & Business Planning
    Human Resources & Payroll Services
    Information & Computer Technology (IT)
    Website Development Support
    Business Funding Pitch & Grant Writing
    Supply Chain & Procurement
    E-Commerce

“Rhode Island’s recovery from COVID-19 has been strong, and now we’re thinking about our future. The Technical Assistance Program will give small businesses the tools they need to come out of these pandemic years more resilient than ever,” said Governor Dan McKee. “I encourage our state’s business service organizations and business community at-large to review the application and consider getting involved.”

“One of Rhode Island’s great economic advantages is how tight-knit and cooperative our small business community is. The Technical Assistance Program leans in to that by connecting entrepreneurs facing challenges with other local businesses who can help,” said Lt. Governor Sabina Matos. “I encourage anyone with a passion for helping their fellow small business owners succeed to consider this opportunity.”

“The Technical Assistance Program is one of the most flexible resources we’ve offered to date. Many of our small business owners have really been looking for this individually curated support.” said Liz Tanner, Secretary of Commerce. “As we solicit vendor applications, we are looking for strong partners to help us meet the unique needs of Rhode Island’s small business community.”

Small businesses may receive up to $10,000 in technical assistance services. The maximum allowable amount any vendor can receive through contracted work in this program is $100,000. Additional information about the program and eligibility can be found at: https://commerceri.com/ri-rebounds/technical-assistance-program.

“At SkillsRI, we know the key to a strong economic recovery in Rhode Island starts with our small businesses,” said Nina Pande, Executive Director at Skills for Rhode Island’s Future. “We are honored to partner with Governor McKee and Rhode Island Commerce on this critical initiative and together, we look forward to strengthening our small business community.”

The application for vendors is available now at https://skillsri.submittable.com/submit/5f2b634a-7493-43e8-8db9-97ef77accc1c/ri-rebounds-technical-assistance-vendor-request-for-qualifications-rfq.

Applications for small businesses seeking technical assistance will open in mid-April.