Student Entrepreneurship Initiative Overview

Purpose Statement

The Community College of RI is launching the inaugural Student Entrepreneurship Initiative. This initiative was created to provide resources and a platform to CCRI students and alumni to develop as entrepreneurs. The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has partnered with Career Services and the Business & Professional Studies Program to create an 18-month long initiative that will include high-impact interactions, in-person learning sessions and robust resources to help build a pathway for entrepreneurs. 

The Student Entrepreneurship Initiative primary goals are aligned with the CCRI 2022 – 2027 Strategic Plan.

The primary goals are listed below:

1. Eliminate Equity Gaps.
2. Equip CCRI students with the skills and resources necessary to become successful 
   entrepreneurs in the state of Rhode Island. 
3. Ready our students with skills and experiences to attain personal, economic, and career success.
4. Provide learning opportunities for CCRI students to practice key essentials to owning, 
   operating and profiting from their business.
5. Advance a culture that promotes our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.
6. Celebrate and recognize our business owners that are part of CCRI.

Black Wall Street Panel and Entrepreneurship Expo

The third annual event of the Student Entrepreneurship Initiative will be the Black Wall Street Panel and Entrepreneurship Expo. 

CCRI will provide a platform for our students and alumni entrepreneurs to showcase their products and services, participate in panel discussions with established Rhode Island entrepreneurs, and learn different techniques for securing resources.

Event Details:

Wednesday, February 25, 2026

Panel 11am-12pm

Expo 12pm-1pm

Knight Campus, Lower Commons