Guidance and Events for Entrepreneurs

September 28, 2026

Something is BREWING in RI!

Greetings!

No matter how you slice it, we are now in the fall season and for beer lovers that means OKTOBERFEST! The official one (in Germany) started September 19th and ends October 4th but in the US, we usually keep it going for the whole month of October (hey, October IS in the name, after all!).

This OKTOBERFEST, at least in Rhode Island, we are kicking off something special for those who like beer and networking. Tonight, we officially start our new monthly networking gathering called BREW WORK. Each month we will visit a different Rhode Island craft brewery and try some beer and do some networking.

The first one is tonight at 5:30pm (at Phantom Farms Brewery in Cumberland RI) and our first BREW WORK tour will last 13 months, and we'll be exploring 13 different breweries. If you want to be a 13-month member, you can join when you sign up for tonight (just pick the member option).

Also, if you want to do a quick review of what it takes to be a great networker, check out this week's article (below) on the 3 most common networking mistakes.

And, as they say in Germany............

PROST!

“The best conversations happen over a cold beer.”

-Anonymus

The Mission of MOMENTUM

is to support the local small business community and entrepreneurs by encouraging them to:

ENGAGE (get out to seminars, networking and other events);

EDUCATE (commit to lifelong learning);

ENJOY (if you cannot laugh and have a little fun, then you are not doing it right!).

See you out there!

P.S. Here is the upcoming schedule for the new BREW WORK NETWORKING events:

P.P.S. This fall certainly started on an up note as we had one of the best MARKETING CAMPS we have ever had. And it could not have taken flight were it not for generous backing of our sponsors. If you have any needs for any of the services that the below sponsors offer, reach out to me and I will be glad to connect you. Every one of our sponsors comes highly recommended and every one of them supports and cares about the small business industry in Rhode Island and local Massachusetts. Their sponsorship money allowed many attendees to attend the conference at a much lower price of admission than would normally be possible. So, to our sponsors we again say loud and clear:

THANK YOU!

3 Common Networking Mistakes

-by Bob Salvas

Why do people network? If I had to answer that with one word, that word would be OPPORTUNITIES. People are looking for opportunities when they network. Now that can mean different things to different people. It could be they are looking for a promotion; it could be they are looking for a new job; it could be that they are looking to start a new business; or it could be they are looking for referrals for the business that they are already in.

Whatever your endgame is for networking, you will NOT be successful at it if you do it incorrectly. Here are three very common networking mistakes I have seen many new networkers make over the years:

1- NOT NETWORKING ENOUGH

2- SELLING INSTEAD OF NETWORKING

3- FAILING TO FOLLOW-UP

Let’s look at all three mistakes and I’ll share three things to help in overcoming each one...

Upcoming Events

TONIGHT!

In-Person Networking:

BREW WORK is coming!

at Phantom Farms Brewing, Cumberland RI

September 28, 2026

5:30pm-7:30pm

There is a BRAND-NEW networking series of events coming starting in September of 2026. If you love local craft beer (or at least love to support local brewery businesses) and you love casual business networking, then you are going to want to jump on board.

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking

(real estate)

at T's Restaurant,

East Greenwich RI

September 29, 2026

8am-9am

At Trust Networking - East Greenwich, you'll have the chance to expand your professional network, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or simply looking to meet new people, this event is perfect for anyone interested in fostering meaningful connections.

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking Newport (Real Estate)

at Wyndham Hotel, Newport RI

September 29, 2026

8:30am-9:30am

Trust Networking - Newport, RI

Join us at our newest chapter: Trust Networking - Newport Real Estate. This new Real Estate focused group will meet on Tuesdays from 8:30AM - 9:30AM at Johnny's Restaurant @ Wyndham Hotel. This in-person gathering is a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals in the Real Estate related world.

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking

at Englund Studio, North Kingstown RI

September 30, 2026

12pm-1pm

At Trust Networking - North Kingstown, you'll have the chance to expand your professional network, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or simply looking to meet new people, this event is perfect for anyone interested in fostering meaningful connections.

In-Person Event :

Know Your Numbers (for Nonprofits)

with Jeremiah Price and others

September 30, 2026

12:30pm-1:30pm

A casual conversation about the powerful reasons to build systems to manage your financial information to help you raise more money.

In-Person Networking:

Cigar Networking

with Sal and Uncle Jay

September 30, 2026 4pm-6:30pm

Regency Cigar Emporium

752 Main Street, East Greenwich, RI

Join us at the Regency in East Greenwich for a little casual business-to-business networking.

Sit back and relax, enjoy a cigar and adult beverage.

Discuss the issues of the day and unwind from the grind.

In-Person Event:

Music in the Galleries

at RISD Museum, Providence RI

October 1, 2026 5pm-8pm

The Rhode Island Civic Chorale & Orchestra (RICCO) and the RISD Museum will transform an evening at the museum into an immersive experience of music and art on Thursday, October 1, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

As part of the museum’s Free Thursday program, visitors are invited to wander through the galleries, discovering live performances inspired by the artwork that surrounds them. Admission to this event is free and open to the public. The RISD Museum is located at 20 North Main Street in Providence RI.

In-Person Networking:

Non-Profit Connections RI

at the Working Man Distillers, Pawtucket RI

October 1, 2026

5:30pm-7:30pm

After a short hiatus, the NONPROFIT CONNECTIONS RI is BACK! Lots of new stuff happening (new dates -first Thursday of each month and new home base- Working Man Distillery!) and each month will feature a different sponsor.

Our October meet up is sponsored by Carliegh Gordon of Colonial Life!

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking Mansfield

at DataPay Payroll, Mansfield MA

October 2, 2026 9am-10am

Trust Networking - Mansfield

Join us for referral networking at the Mansfield, MA chapter.

In-Person Networking:

Trust Networking

October 2, 2026

noon-1pm

Trust Networking's first B2B group is the B2B CUMBERLAND TRUST GROUP and it is in a brand new location at Phantom Farms Brewing Co in Cumberland RI. Come for a visit and see what the excitement is all about.

The Walk to end Alzheimer's

RI walks

October 3, 2026- Block Island

October 4, 2026-Westerly

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Event:

The New England Patriots at the Buffalo Bills

at Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, NY

October 4, 2026 1pm

The Patriots travel to Buffalo to play the rival Bills at the new stadium in Orchard Park, NY. If you cannot attend the game in Buffalo, consider coming to one of two local watch parties which are both raising money for good causes (see below). GO PATS!

In-Person Networking:

Cigar Networking

at the White Ash Cigar Lounge, Pawtucket RI

October 5, 2026

5:30pm-8:30pm

Kamil Sarji is celebrating his 10th year of hosting Cigar Networking.

Ten years ago, a small group of business owners and professionals sat down, lit up, and started talking. That first Monday in May 2016 turned into a monthly tradition — and this year, we’re celebrating 10 years of Cigar Business Networking.

If you’ve never been, here’s the idea: every first Monday of the month (unless that falls on a holiday), we gather at White Ash Cigar Lounge in Pawtucket for a relaxed evening of real business conversation. No stiff name tags, no forced small talk — just good people, good cigars, and genuine connections.

You don’t have to smoke to belong here. What brings people back month after month is the room itself — entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners who actually want to grow and help others do the same.

NOTE: The White Ash Cigar Lounge is now an official CIGARS FOR WARRIOR donation station. As a military veteran (and cigar lover)....THANK YOU WHITE ASH!

In-Person Event:

Shining a Light a Grief Vol 3 Book Launch

at The Guild Brewing Co, Pawtucket RI

October 7, 2026

6pm-8pm

Rhode Island author, editor, and Certified Master Grief Coach Susan Lataille will celebrate the release of Shining a Light on Grief, Volume Three with a book launch and signing on Wednesday, October 7, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at The Guild in Pawtucket.

Shining a Light on Grief is a collaborative book series that gives individuals an opportunity to honor someone they love by sharing their personal stories of love, loss, grief, healing, and hope. In Volume Three, eight contributing authors open their hearts and offer an intimate look at the people they have loved, the losses that changed their lives, and the ways they have learned to carry that love forward.

The event will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at The Guild, 461 Main St., Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Admission is free.

For more information about Shining a Light on Grief or the October 7 book launch, contact Susan Lataille at s usan@susanlataille.com.

Happy National Chess Day!

October 10, 2026

In-Person Event:

Autumnfest

at the World War II Veterans Memorial Park, Woonsocket RI

October 10-12, 2026

8am-9:45am

Autumnfest is the largest festival in northern Rhode Island. Always a great time with music, food and beer. It takes place on the Columbus Day weekend (Oct 10-12) in Woonsocket RI. Plan ahead to attend this year's event which will also celebrate the fall season and the 250th anniversary of our country!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Event:

The Las Vegas Raiders at the New England Patriots

at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro MA

October 11, 2026

1pm

The Patriots return to Gillette to face the silver and black Las Vegas Raiders! GO PATS!

Happy Columbus Day!

October 12, 2026

In-Person Event:

Lights On, Plates Full:

Gather & Give

at Track 15, Providence RI

October 13, 2026

5pm-8:30pm

A Night to Dine, Connect & Give Back

Gather & Give is a community-wide dining night dedicated to bringing people together around great food and a shared commitment to Rhode Island’s youth.

For one special evening, all seven nonprofit partners will rally their boards, families, friends, volunteers, donors, and supporters to fill Track 15 and dine for a cause. Guests are encouraged to explore the participating restaurants, order a Signature Lights On Plate, and support the youth-serving organizations at the heart of Lights On, Plates Full.

In-Person Event:

Taste of Rhode Island

at the Crowne Plaza, Warwick RI

October 14, 2026

6pm-9pm

The Taste of Rhode Island 2026 Winter Showcase is coming to the Crowne Plaza in Warwick RI on

Wednesday, October 14th from 6pm-9pm. RI’s favorite food & drink tasting event! 70 vendors, live music, one epic night, one location—and every tasting is included.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Networking:

BREW WORK is coming!

at Tragmar Ale Works, Bristol RI

October 15, 2026

5:30pm-7:30pm

In-Person Networking:

October RI Networking Event

with Little Rhody Professional Networking

October 15, 2026

6pm-9pm

Little Rhody Professional Networking would like to invite you to our October Rhode Island Business Networking & Social Event at The Industrial in Pawtucket, RI from 6:00pm - 8:00pm on Thursday, October 15th.

This Little Rhody Professional Networking Event will be special since the Market Like a Hotshot Podcast will be broadcasted LIVE at the event. We will have an hour and a half of networking and then the music starts and the podcast goes live.

In-Person Event:

The Bowen's Wharf Seafood Festival

at Bowen's Wharf, Newport RI

October 17-18, 2026

11am-3pm

Celebrate the Harvest of the Sea at the 35th annual Bowen's Wharf Seafood Festival. One of the top fall festivals in the region. It takes place at Bowen's Wharf in Newport RI on October 17-18 from 11am-3pm.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

In-Person Event:

The New York Jets at the New England Patriots

at Gillette Stadium, Foxboro MA

October 18, 2026

1pm

The Patriots play another home game against a long-time rivel---the J-E-T-S, jets, jets, jets. GO PATS!

In-Person Networking:

Brewing Better Business

with the Better Business Bureau

October 20, 2026

8am-9am

Location: Coffee Connection SmithfieldSmithfield, RI

Brew meaningful connections, exchange ideas, and grow your network.

Start your morning with coffee, conversation, and connections at Brewing Better Business in Rhode Island!

Join BBB and Commonwealth Financial Group for a relaxed networking experience with members of the local business community. Meet new people, exchange ideas, and learn more about the businesses and professionals around you.

In-Person Networking:

The Heart of RI Networking

at CIC, Providence RI

October 21, 2026

8am-9:45am

One of the more popular monthly networking events is the HEART OF RI and it routinely sells out. So you might want to reserve a spot NOW! Always a lot of great networkers at this event.

In-Person Networking:

Heart of Massachusetts Networking

at the Springhill Suites by Marriot, Wrentham MA

October 21, 2026

5pm-6:30pm

The Heart Of Massachusetts

Gather and collaborate with The Heart of Massachusetts to connect, grow, and thrive in a vibrant, community-focused event.

In-Person Event:

The New England Patriots at the Chicago Bears

at Soldier Field, Chicago IL

October 22, 2026

8:15pm

The Patriots travel to the oldest NFL stadium still playing games- SOLDIER FIELD, home of the Chicago Bears. GO PATS!

In-Person Event:

The Purple Healing Hearts Art

at Now or Never, Providence RI

October 24, 2026

2pm-4pm

Join us for a meaningful art show and fundraiser that will feature art by survivors. Enjoy delicious desserts and refreshments, and view the purple wedding dress featuring purple ribbons in honor or victims and survivors of domestic violence. Attendees will be invited to make a purple heart to show their support of survivors, and can enter a raffle to win a gift basket.

In-Person Event:

Puffs & Pawns

at White Ash Cigar Lounge, Pawtucket RI

October 25, 2026

1pm-5pm

On Sunday October 25th at 1pm, the PUFFS 'N PAWNS gathering will take place. If you like chess and cigars, this is the place for you. Come out and play some casual chess and enjoy a cigar and a drink. All are welcome!

In-Person Networking:

Trust Fall Meet & Greet

at Towne Tavern & Tap, North Attleboro MA

October 26, 2026

5:30pm-7:30pm

Come join other local business people for some food, drinks, and networking, (food is on us) just bring a hunger for new connections!

In-Person Networking:

Networking Pop-Up

at Juncal Mexican Bar & Grill, Cumberland RI

October 27, 2026

4:30pm-6:30pm

Join us for an evening of connection & conversation, at one of RI’s best restaurants — Juncal Mexican Bar & Grill in Cumberland.

Whether you’re looking to grow your professional circle, catch up with colleagues, or make new connections across industries, this event is for you.

In-Person Networking:

Good Networking Coffee Hour

at Good Working

October 29, 2026

8am-9am

Good Working Coworking .

585 Smithfield Road,

North Smithfield, RI

What to Expect: Join fellow professionals at our monthly Good Networking Coffee Hour (on the last Thursday of the month) held at the cozy and inviting Good Working co-working space. Whether you're a freelancer, business owner, etc.

In-Person Networking:

Last Friday Coffee

with Englund Studio

October 30, 2026

8:30am-10am

at the Quonset Office Park

70 Romano Vineyard Way, North Kingstown, RI

Bring plenty of business cards and a positive energetic business attitude. Stop by and meet new contacts and, as always, rebuild your associations.

In-Person Event:

RI Future Leaders Summit- Student Showcase

with the Better Business Bureau

October 30, 2026

4:30pm-6:30pm

Businesses, parents, educators & community leaders: join us in celebrating & supporting Rhode Island's next generation of entrepreners! The location is the Quinta Gamelin Community Center in Bristol RI.

The summit gives high school students the opportunity to explore what it takes to turn an idea into something real. Students will have the chance to showcase their business ideas, nonprofit concepts, and entrepreneurial goals while connecting with local business leaders, mentors, educators, and community partners.

Happy Halloween!

October 31, 2026

In-Person Event:

The New England Patriots at the Miami Dolphins

at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami FL

November 1, 2026

4:30pm

The Patriots travel to sunny Miami to face the rival Dolphins. GO PATS!

In-Person Networking:

Cigar Networking

at the White Ash Cigar Lounge, Pawtucket RI

November 2, 2026

5:30pm-8:30pm

Kamil Sarji is celebrating his 10th year of hosting Cigar Networking.

In-Person Event:

Election Day 2026

November 3, 2026

7am-8pm (in most polling places)

Let your voice be heard. We have a right to vote, and we should never take that for granted. Get out there and VOTE!

SAVE THE DATES

for some big events

coming soon!

(NOTE: Some of these events (below) are open for those who want to sponsor or exhibit at them -please contact me if you are interested in that or feel free to check out the links to each event)

The Welcome Wednesday Chamber of Commerce coffee event is back on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 8:30am-9:30am at the Boys and Girls Club of Pawtucket RI.

Don't miss the chance to expand your network and make meaningful business connections. Complimentary coffee will be available. Registration is free, but required.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The Nonprofit Connections RI event for November is sponsored by the Businesses Give Back Toys for Tots event later in the month. Help us get a jump on toy collections by bringing your new unwrapped toy to this networking event which is free for all who want to attend. Join us at the Working Man Distillery on November 5, 2026, for great networking with the nonprofit community.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The 2026 Ocean State Business Expo kicks off another year of outstanding support for the small business community. The event takes place on November 10, 2026 from 3pm-7pm at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick RI.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

The 2026 BUSINESSES GIVE BACK TOYS FOR TOTS event will be back at the Guild Brewery in Pawtucket RI on November 16, 2026 from 5pm-9pm. This is a great event for a great cause. Free music and BBQ and great tasting beer and other drinks to enjoy. All you have to do is bring some new toys with you for the donation. We collected over 2,000 toys last year!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Celebrate 10 years of shopping small at Rhode Island’s holiday shopping showcase! Small Business Saturday Shop RI brings together more than 150 diverse vendors all under one roof. The event takes place on November 28, 2026 at 9am at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick RI.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

RI WOMEN'S EXPO- a Pat Cruz event, comes to the Crowne Plaza in Warwick RI on Sunday November 29, 2026. It runs from 11am-3pm. This lifestyle event for women & drink, shopping, fashion, prizes, giveaways, personal growth and LOTS OF FUN! Don't miss this one!

This is not just an expo. This is an event dedicated to 'all wonderful things women' and honestly, you deserve it!

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Momentum Monday is sponsored by

Mailbox Power

Let's be sure to reach out in gratitude to those who have helped us succeed in business and in life. Make that notion of gratitude more meaningful by sending something TANGIBLE to those you appreciate. I like to call it MOMENTUM MAIL- sending tangible thanks not only makes you feel good but it builds momentum for your business and for your life!

Many of you will think about this but then get too busy.

Trust me, MAILBOX POWER is the solution you have been looking for.

Send small gifts or cards affordably and conveniently right from your laptop.

CHECK IT OUT HERE!

This is an easy and creative solution to gift giving and card sending, so I encourage you to take a closer look at MAILBOX POWER (try it free for 14 days). Everything can be done from your laptop and at an affordable price too!

LET YOUR CLIENTS AND PROSPECTS KNOW YOU APPRECIATE THEM!

Contact Bob