1. RIMA: 250 - Annual Breakfast and Meeting | |
2. Advocacy in Action
- RIMA and Rhode Island Business Leaders Alliance testify against "Millionaire Tax"
- 2025 State of Manufacturing Rhode Island Report - Powered by Polaris
- Manufacturing Community Applauds Advancement of Rhode Island License Plate Legislation
- Business Leaders Alliance Backs Tax Amnesty and License Reinstatement Bills
- 28-Year OSHA Veteran delivers critical testimony against unnecessary and costly labor mandates
- RIMA President joins the CEO Council of Rhode Island - 2026 Navigating the Future
- C-PACE - Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank Seminar
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3. State and Federal Action Impacting Rhode Island Manufacturers
- SBA Announces New Loan Program for Manufacturers
- Polaris Tech Bridge
- Governor McKee Commits to Nuclear Power - Mitigating Consumers Energy Costs
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4. Events & Education: Manufacturing Your
Success
- Lunch & Learn: ISO 9001: 2026 Updates
- Connecting Women in New England’s International Trade Community: High Tea at the Chinese Tea House
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RIMA: 250 - Save the Date
Celebrating Manufacturing in Rhode Island
with the Largest Event in RIMA History
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RIMA proudly presents RIMA:250, our largest event in organization history. Aligning with our countries 250 anniversary, RIMA will celebrate manufacturing in Rhode Island.
In years past, Rhode Island was a leader in textiles and manufacturing. Through the depth of manufacturing talent and investment in our industry, we will bring Rhode Island back to is manufacturing greatness. All this begins at RIMA: 250.
Join us at the Omni in Providence on June 2nd, as we honor our past, celebrate our present, and shape our future.
Don't miss a special keynote from Siemens Digital and technology and AI leaders from around the world.
Sponsorships are still available. Follow the link below to register.
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RIMA and Rhode Island Business Leaders Alliance
Testify Against "Millionaire Tax"
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The Rhode Island Manufacturers Association (RIMA) testified in opposition of the proposed “Millionaires Tax,” arguing that Rhode Island’s fiscal challenges stem from rising state spending rather than a lack of revenue. RIMA emphasized that many of the taxpayers affected are small-business owners whose income is reinvested into jobs, equipment, and business growth. The testimony warned that the proposal could discourage investment and harm Rhode Island’s competitiveness, particularly for manufacturers and other small businesses.
Instead, RIMA called for structural spending reforms, greater government efficiency, and increased investment in workforce development, technology, and AI training to strengthen the state’s long-term economy.
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2025 State of Manufacturing Rhode Island Report - Powered by Polaris
A MUST-READ FOR ALL RIMA MEMBERS
All RIMA members are encouraged to review this important update on Rhode Island’s manufacturing sector. This in-depth report draws from data from a variety of reputable and reliable sources.
Polaris also designed a comprehensive “Voice of Manufacturers” survey, gathering insights from approximately 200 manufacturers, conducting key informant interviews with industry leaders and partners, and vetting findings to ensure relevance and meaningful industry impact.
| | | Manufacturing Community Applauds Advancement of Rhode Island License Plate Legislation | |
As part of the ongoing RIMA 250 Celebration, the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association is pleased to share that legislation creating a first-in-the-nation Manufacturing Industry designed license plate has passed the Senate Committee on Special Legislation and Veterans Affairs.
The bill, Senate Bill S2746, directs the Division of Motor Vehicles to create a special license plate recognizing Rhode Island’s manufacturing community and the vital role it plays in the state’s economy.
The legislation was championed by Leonidas Raptakis, Vice Chairman of the committee and a longtime advocate for manufacturing, with a companion bill introduced in the House by Stephen Casey.
RIMA thanks Senator Raptakis, Representative Casey, and all those who supported this important step in honoring Rhode Island manufacturing.
| |  | RIMA AND RI Business Leaders Alliance Back Important Tax Legislation | |
House Bill H7810 would reform Rhode Island tax policy by capping interest rates on delinquent taxes at 12 percent beginning in 2027. The bill would also bring the state’s audit “look back” period more in line with federal IRS standards by generally prohibiting audits more than three years after a return is filed, extending that period to seven years in cases involving fraud, and establishing an absolute maximum limit of 10 years.
The legislation is intended to create a fairer, more predictable system for taxpayers and small businesses. Under current law, Rhode Island can pursue audits and collections for longer periods, while also imposing the highest tax penalty interest rate in the country. The current system creates unnecessary hardship, particularly for small businesses.
By reducing interest rates and establishing reasonable time limits for audits, H7810 would provide taxpayers with greater certainty, encourage compliance, and align Rhode Island with the practices used by most other states and the federal government.
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28-Year OSHA Veteran Delivers Critical Testimony Against Unnecessary and Costly Labor Mandates
This month, RIMA members saw firsthand why advocacy at the State House is more important than ever. At a recent hearing before the Rhode Island House Labor Committee, business groups—including the Rhode Island Business Leaders Alliance and the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association—mobilized to oppose two proposed “extreme temperature” bills that would have imposed costly new mandates on employers, including required rest breaks, equipment, training, and other workplace requirements.
RIMA joined a coordinated effort led by attorney-lobbyist Ryan J. Holt and labor law experts from Littler, including Peter Vassalo, whose testimony challenged the rationale behind the legislation and highlighted the lack of evidence supporting the proposed mandates.
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This type of work is made possible by RIMA member dues. Those dues fund the advocacy, lobbying, legal expertise, coalition-building, and day-to-day monitoring required to protect manufacturers from costly and burdensome legislation.
While this effort appears to have helped stop the House bills, work continues in the Senate. The hearing served as a powerful reminder that proposals affecting manufacturers are introduced every session—and that RIMA’s ability to respond quickly and effectively depends on the continued support of its members.
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RIMA President Joins the CEO Council of Rhode Island -
2026 Navigating the Future
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The 2026 Rhode Island CEO Summit, hosted by the CEO Council of Rhode Island, brought together business leaders from across the state to examine the challenges and opportunities shaping the year ahead. Centered on the theme, “Navigating an Ever-Changing Business Environment,” the summit provided an important forum for discussion, collaboration, and forward-looking leadership.
A featured fireside chat with Stefan Pryor focused on economic growth, workforce development, and initiatives designed to support Rhode Island businesses. The conversation underscored the importance of maintaining a strong, competitive business climate while continuing to invest in the industries that drive the state’s economy.
The summit also featured a panel on 2026 economic expectations, moderated by Michelle Carr. While panelists expressed optimism about Rhode Island’s future, they also addressed the significant challenges many organizations continue to face, including rising energy costs, workforce pressures, and the need to lead effectively through ongoing uncertainty. The discussion included insights from Cortney Nicolato of United Way of Rhode Island, Greg Cornett of Rhode Island Energy, and Paul Oliveira of KLR, each of whom offered valuable perspectives on the evolving economic landscape.
The summit also highlighted the growing voice of manufacturing within Rhode Island’s broader business community. Melissa Travis, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association, was recently appointed to the CEO Council of Rhode Island. Her appointment ensures that manufacturers have a seat at the table and that the priorities of Rhode Island’s manufacturing sector are represented at the highest levels of business leadership and policy discussion.
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RIMA and Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank Highlight How
C-PACE Can Help Manufacturers Cut Costs and Invest in Growth
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For manufacturers grappling with rising energy costs and aging facilities, Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) offers a practical, cost-effective way to modernize operations without draining valuable working capital. Through long-term, fixed-rate financing repaid through a property tax assessment, manufacturers can finance up to 100 percent of eligible project costs—including HVAC upgrades, lighting, solar installations, roofing, insulation, and other energy-saving improvements. Terms often extend 20 to 30 years, frequently at a lower cost than traditional mezzanine financing or equity.
Perhaps most importantly, many projects generate enough energy savings to offset—or even exceed—the annual financing payments, allowing manufacturers to improve their facilities, reduce operating expenses, and strengthen long-term competitiveness without creating additional strain on cash flow.
Manufacturers across Rhode Island are already seeing those benefits. One example is the Fulford Manufacturing Building in Riverside, which used C-PACE financing to complete a rooftop solar installation and critical roof repairs. The value of the program was highlighted during yesterday’s seminar hosted by the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank and presented by Jim Braz, which gave manufacturers a practical overview of how the program works and how it can be used to support long-term investment and growth.
The seminar also underscored why the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association continues to advocate for greater awareness and broader use of this powerful financing tool. For manufacturers looking to reduce costs, improve facilities, and remain competitive, C-PACE represents a significant opportunity.
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ATTENTION MANUFACTURERS:
SBA Announces New “Made in America Loan Guarantee” to Restore Manufacturing Dominance
The U.S. Small Business Administration announced that beginning May 1, small manufacturers will become eligible for expanded support through the SBA’s International Trade Loan program, which now offers a 90 percent federal loan guarantee—up from the standard 75 percent—to help businesses access financing with greater ease.
The enhanced program will allow manufacturers to expand facilities, modernize equipment, hire workers, increase production, strengthen inventories, pursue acquisitions, and shift supply chains back to the United States. The program, which now includes all manufacturers in NAICS sectors 31–33 as well as parts of the food supply chain, is part of a broader federal effort to strengthen domestic manufacturing through financing, tax incentives, and reshoring initiatives. Link to full release below.
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Polaris Tech Bridge Releases Working Draft of the Southern New England Defense and Dual-Use Technology Ecosystem Report
Polaris Tech Bridge, formerly known as 401 Tech Bridge, helps Rhode Island companies move new technologies from concept to commercialization, particularly in defense, dual-use, and blue economy industries. As part of the newly created parent organization, Polaris, Polaris Tech Bridge connects startups, manufacturers, universities, government agencies, and investors to accelerate product development, testing, and market entry. The organization focuses on helping companies access research resources, makerspaces, prototype funding, strategic partners, and government contracting opportunities, while also strengthening Rhode Island’s manufacturing and maritime defense ecosystem.
Click on the picture to the left to review the working draft.
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Governor McKeee Commits to Exploring Nuclear Energy
Governor McKee joined a coalition of New England governors in announcing a regional commitment to strengthen energy reliability and affordability through continued support for existing nuclear power facilities and exploration of advanced nuclear technologies.
Joining governors from Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont, the group directed state energy agencies to examine ways to preserve the region’s existing nuclear generation while also evaluating next-generation nuclear technologies, including potential financing options, federal support, public-private partnerships, and regulatory frameworks.
The announcement comes as electricity demand across New England is expected to rise more than 40 percent over the next two decades, with winter peak demand projected to double by 2045.
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Rhode Island has already taken steps in this direction: last year, Governor McKee signed legislation expanding nuclear energy as an eligible resource under the Affordable Clean Energy Security Act. Rhode Island is now participating with several neighboring states in a regional procurement process for existing nuclear generation, which could help diversify the state’s energy mix, improve winter reliability, and support long-term emissions reduction goals.
The read the Governor's news release in its entirety by clicking the link below.
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Lunch & Learn: ISO 9001: 2026 Updates
An Overview of the Upcoming ISO 9001 Revision
Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm
Location: 315 Iron Horse Way, Providence, RI 02908
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This Lunch & Learn provides a high-level overview of the changes included in the Final Draft International Standard for ISO 9001:2026. Participants will gain insight into the intent behind the revisions and how the updated standard reflects emerging priorities in quality management.
This session is designed to help manufacturers and quality professionals stay informed about the upcoming revision and understand the broader direction of the ISO 9001 standard.
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Connecting Women in New England’s International Trade Community: High Tea at the Chinese Tea House
Date: Friday, May 15, 2026
Time: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: The Chinese Tea House at Marble House, Newport, Rhode Island
Join Women in World Trade New England for a memorable afternoon of connection, conversation, and culture in Newport, Rhode Island! Network with fellow women working in international trade while enjoying a traditional High Tea at one of Newport’s most iconic and historic venues.
Space is limited, Secure your space today. Cost is $70.
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Senesco Marine Launches and Christens New Casco Bay Lines Electric Ferry
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Congratulations to Senesco Marine on the successful launch and christening of Battery Steele, a groundbreaking 164-foot, double-ended ferry built at the company’s shipyard in North Kingstown for Casco Bay Lines.
Designed by Elliott Bay Design Group, Battery Steele will provide year-round service between Portland and Peaks Island, carrying up to 599 passengers and 15 vehicles. The vessel represents an extraordinary achievement in innovation and craftsmanship, featuring a battery-powered propulsion system from ABB with backup power supplied by two Caterpillar C18 generators.
As the first electrically propelled ferry ever built in New England, Battery Steele is a remarkable milestone for Senesco Marine and a proud example of the world-class manufacturing taking place in Rhode Island.
| | | Congratulations to Walco's Fred Ewing for 30 Years of Service! | |
Rhode Island Manufacturers Association proudly extends its heartfelt congratulations to Fred Ewing on an extraordinary milestone—30 years of dedicated service with Walco Electric.
Three decades of commitment, hard work, and loyalty is a remarkable achievement and a reflection of the kind of person Fred is. Reaching 30 years with one company speaks not only to his professionalism and dedication, but also to the relationships, trust, and impact he has built over the course of his career.
RIMA congratulates both Fred and Walco Electric on this impressive accomplishment and thanks them for the example they set for Rhode Island’s manufacturing community.
| | | Cooley/Group to Celebrate Centennial | |
Rhode Island Manufacturers Association proudly congratulates Cooley Group as the company prepares to celebrate an extraordinary milestone in 2026—100 years in business.
A century of success is an achievement few companies attain. Reaching 100 years reflects not only the strength of Cooley Group’s products and services, but also the vision, leadership, innovation, and commitment that have guided the company through generations of change and growth. From its roots in Pawtucket to its continued leadership in the manufacturing industry, Cooley Group has built a legacy of excellence that has made a lasting impact on Rhode Island and beyond.
RIMA extends its sincere congratulations to the entire Cooley Group team on reaching this incredible milestone and wishes the company continued success for the next 100 years.
| | | RIMA Awardees to be Honored at the State House | |
On Thursday, April 16, the 2026 award winners of the Rhode Island Manufacturers Association will be welcomed to the Rhode Island State House, where they will be formally recognized by both the House and Senate chambers for their outstanding accomplishments.
These honorees represent the very best of Rhode Island’s manufacturing community. Through innovation, leadership, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, they exemplify the strength and vitality of the manufacturing sector across the Ocean State. Their achievements are a powerful reflection of the exceptional business environment and talented workforce that make Rhode Island manufacturing so strong.
RIMA proudly congratulates this year’s winners on this well-deserved recognition and looks forward to celebrating alongside them on Thursday.
| | | Thank You to our 2026 Sponsors! | | | | |
