Back to Business Grant Program

Thank you for your interest in the Back to Business program.
The program is now closed.

There was an overwhelming response and successful applicants will be notified by the end of the day on Friday, November 12. All other applications will be placed on a waitlist and contacted next week with an update on the process and next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) | Preguntas Frecuentes

Eligibility

  • Employer has fewer than 200 employees
  • Employer is located in Rhode Island
  • Employer suffered job losses during the pandemic
  • Employer has an ongoing labor shortage causing business interruption

Employer will use funds for one of the listed allowable uses:

  • New Hire Incentive (a "sign on bonus")
  • Referral Incentive (an incentive payment to employees who successfully recruit a new hire for the employer)
  • Other recruitment activity, including job fair, promotional materials, recruitment firm, and ancillary supports