Exciting news for Rhode Island’s creative community as DESIGNxRI, the nonprofit economic development organization dedicated to fostering growth within Rhode Island’s design sector, is thrilled to announce the launch of its inaugural Fall Design Catalyst program at Innovate Newport. Designed to empower creative and design-based businesses, this innovative program offers a competitive, milestones-based grant opportunity, alongside comprehensive support and resources. Past participants have been a range of businesses, which include: furniture design, photography, videography, perfume design, cast iron cookware, lighting design, a community ceramic studio, a community glass workshop and more.
For the first time, the Fall Design Catalyst program will be hosted at Innovate Newport, amplifying accessibility and nurturing a vibrant ecosystem for creative entrepreneurship on Aquidneck Island.
The deadline for the Fall Design Catalyst program application has been extended exclusively to Aquidneck Island residents till Sunday at Midnight, May 19th 2024. This unique opportunity presents local creatives with the chance to access seed capital up to $15,000, business mentorship, professional development training, and peer-to-peer networking.
Key program components include:
Business Mentorship: Each business will be paired with a dedicated mentor, providing tailored guidance to achieve specific growth goals.
Professional Development Intensives: Participants will engage in a curriculum of development and skill-building intensives throughout the program.
Peer-to-Peer Networking: Businesses will have the opportunity to connect with and learn from their peers, fostering collaboration and community.
Seed Capital: Grants ranging from $1,500 to $15,000 will be awarded to selected businesses, contingent upon meeting program requirements.
Financial Coaching: Businesses will benefit from scheduled meetings with Catalyst’s financial advisor, offering crucial insights on financial management.
Access to Innovate Newport Co-Working Space: Participants will have access to Innovate Newport’s state-of-the-art co-working space throughout the program.
“The debut of the Fall Design Catalyst program at Innovate Newport marks a significant milestone for DESIGNxRI,” said Berit Lavender, Co-Director of DESIGNxRI. “We’re thrilled to offer local residents the opportunity to grow their businesses and contribute to the vibrant creative economy of Rhode Island.”
Applications for the Fall Design Catalyst program have been extended for Aquideneck Island Residents until Sunday, May 19th 2024. Aquidneck Island residents interested in applying can visit https://www.designxri.com/programs-and-events/fall-design-catalyst/ for eligibility criteria and application details.
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