NEW: IPIC Offers $110,000 in Grants to Strengthen Knowledge Economy
Friday, March 18, 2011
The Innovation Providence Implementation Council (IPIC) announced today that it will be providing $110,000 in grant funding for programs aimed at bolstering the local knowledge economy. This third round of grant funds comes through the Providence Economic Development Partnership, the Rhode Island Foundation, and the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce.
Project grants, which will range from $10,000 to $25,000, will be directed primarily towards short-term projects—those which are expected to begin within the next six months. Any organizations involved in the knowledge economy—which the IPIC defines as encompassing healthcare, technology, research and development, alternative energy entrepreneurship, and workforce development—will be eligible for grant funding.
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“Through the efforts of IPIC and our community partners, Rhode Island and Providence are becoming a hub of economic development and entrepreneurial activity,” said Connie Howes, president and CEO of Women & Infants Hospital and chair of the IPIC. “It is so important for us to continue to invest in the people and ideas that are driving change and innovation.”
Neil D. Steinberg, president and CEO of the Rhode Island Foundation, which provided $25,000 of the fund, stressed the importance of providing financial support for budding industries. “Early seed funding can make all the difference in moving an innovative idea from concept to development to jobs,” said Steinberg. “We must be opportunistic and capitalize on ideas that demonstrate collaboration and momentum and hold the promise of strengthening Rhode Island’s economy.”
Providence Mayor Angel Taveras also expressed his support of IPIC’s work. “Now, more than ever, we need to collaborate across the public and private sectors to focus our resources on spurring economic growth," said Taveras. "Technology and innovation will drive our economy and it falls to us to do what we can to enable more Providence-based business to thrive in the 21st century knowledge economy.”
Proposals Being Accepted
Request for proposals are available at the Chamber web site at www.providencechamber.com. Proposals must be submitted by Friday, April 15, 2011. Awards are to be made in early summer.
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