Business Support Resources

Want to dial in the business side of your farm?
These free resources will help you get as good at running your business as you are at growing food. Many thanks to the farm service providers around the country who prepared these resources or helped us create them.

FOOD BUSINESS RESOURCE GUIDE
This resource is intended to be a one-stop-shop for food related businesses to find technical assistance, grant funding, or financing.

Climate Change Resources for Business
Businesses across Rhode Island are taking steps to address climate change, implement sound resilience practices, and remain competitive and profitable. Planning and preparing for extreme climate events can also save lives and keep Rhode Islanders working.

This report includes funding opportunities available in the eight states served by Farm Credit East: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont. Programs are divided into broad categories according to their main focus: beginning farmers, conservation, environment and forestry; energy; fisheries and aquaculture; organic; rural business development; and research, education and promotion.

STARTING A FARMERS MARKET IN RI

Successful markets have deep community roots and offer a thriving marketplace for farmers and eaters. There are many details to consider before starting a new farmers market. Below you will find resources to guide you through the planning process.

The following information on starting a new farmers market is brought to you in partnership between Farm Fresh RI and the USDA Farmers Market Promotion Program

Southside Community Land Trust (SCLT) serves people in economically challenged urban neighborhoods where fresh produce is scarce and who, as a result, are at risk for life-threatening, diet-related, chronic diseases.

The core mission of the Center for Southeast Asians is to promote the prosperity, heritage, and leadership of Southeast Asians in Rhode Island. Over the years, the organization has expanded its programs to also serve other ethnic minority communities, including a sizable Latino community as well as new refugees and immigrants from other regions.

In addition to providing 6,900+ individuals each year with a wide range of direct services, which include job training and adult literacy programs, small business development, assistance to victims of crime, case management, public health outreach, ESL and citizenship classes, a nutrition program for seniors, free tax preparation services, food stamps outreach and enrollment, transitional housing, and health insurance navigation and enrollment, CSEA is engaged in advocacy and research to affect system change and inform public policy development.

Do you have legal questions about starting your business, acquiring land, entering into contracts, or other essential business matters? The Legal Food Hub Resource Library provides answers to common legal questions. If you’re in a hurry, check out our short Lightning Guides. If you have more time, explore our Legal Guides and recorded Webinars.

The RI Business Assistant is an interactive tool for business owners and non-profit members to create a customized checklist of professional licensing, legal requirements and support resources tailored to their specific industry needs.
The RI Business Assistant will create a customized checklist of required applications for licensing and registration, estimated costs and fees, laws and regulations, and support resources to help your business or non-profit thrive.
Who should use the RI Business Assistant?
– Aspiring Entrepreneurs
– Startups
– Existing Businesses Looking to Expand
– Out-of-State/Foreign Businesses
– Non-Profits