FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Lisa Ranglin

Phone: 401-383-1179

Email: Lisa@ribba.org

Website: www.ribba.org

RIBBA Seeks Nominations for Annual Awards Gala

Nominations will be accepted until Monday, May 18, 2026

Providence, RI - Tuesday, April 14, 2026 - RIBBA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the wealth gap in Rhode Island through empowering individuals, strengthening businesses, and advancing economic opportunity, is now accepting nominations for its 2026 Annual Awards Gala! This year's gala is especially significant as RIBBA celebrates its Sweet 16. This celebration marks 16 years of impact, growth, and service to the community. 

This year's celebration will take place on Friday, August 28, 2026, at the beautiful Kirkbrae Country Club, with doors opening at 6 PM. In an exciting and innovative shift, this marks RIBBA's first-ever summer gala—bringing a fresh, vibrant energy to an already highly anticipated event and setting a new standard for celebrations of excellence in the region. The event attracts over 500 attendees each year, making it one of the most impactful and premier gatherings of business and community leaders. 

The Annual Awards Gala honors the extraordinary achievements of Rhode Island's most inspiring business owners, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. This is your opportunity to recognize those who are making a real difference.

Who is a change agent creating impact in our community? 

Who is leading, building, and uplifting others? 

Who deserves to be recognized on one of the biggest stages in Rhode Island?

Nominate them today and help us celebrate excellence, innovation, and leadership across our communities.

Nominations are being accepted in 9 categories:  

• George T. Downing Business Leadership Award: Recognizes an individual for outstanding leadership, vision, and excellence in business.  
• Outstanding Achievement in Leadership Award: Honors an individual who consistently goes above and beyond in leadership and impact.  
• Emerging Leader Award:  Celebrates rising leaders who are making meaningful contributions across Rhode Island.  
• Isaac Rice Entrepreneur of the Year Award: Recognizes exceptional entrepreneurial success, innovation, and community impact.  
• Christiana Bannister Civic Leadership Award:  Honors long-standing dedication and service to advancing communities.  
• Innovation & Impact Award: Recognizes an individual driving bold ideas and meaningful change.  
• Change Agent Award: Celebrates those using their platform to transform lives and inspire progress.  
• Partnership Award: Honors individuals or organizations building strong, collaborative partnerships to drive results. 
• Member of the Year Award: Recognizes outstanding contributions and leadership within the RIBBA network.  

Nominations will be accepted through May 18, 2026. 

This is more than an awards program—it’s a moment to shine a light on the leaders, visionaries, and changemakers who are shaping the future of Rhode Island. Don’t miss your chance to elevate their stories and celebrate their impact. 

For more information or to submit a nomination, please contact info@ribba.org or call 401-383-1179. 

About RIBBA: Founded in 2010, RIBBA is a non-profit organization, is committed to closing the wealth gap in Rhode Island by empowering all residents to thrive and fostering opportunities for future generations. Our innovative program model is built upon key pillars of success, including financial empowerment, workforce development, business development, contracting, learning series, capital pathways, advocacy, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

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