PROVIDENCE, R.I. (Sept. 22, 2008) – The two state agencies charged with helping Rhode Island businesses grow are offering business people the opportunity to talk face-to-face with the government officials who regulate their companies, provide advice and offer financing at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick today.
The “We Mean Business Expo” is a partnership between Every Company Counts, an initiative of the Rhode Island Economic Development Corporation (RIEDC), and Secretary of State A. Ralph Mollis. The two organizations vow to make it easier for businesses to businesses obtain forms, make contacts and get answers from government at all levels.
“Get free business advice from a team of experts put together especially with small businesses in mind. Go to one of the free workshops on topics ranging from customer service to marketing. Pick up business tips and participate in give-aways all day long,” said Mollis.
Among the 70 organizations planning to set up shop at the expo are the City of Warwick, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the state Department of Environmental Management. The expo hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no charge to attend.
In addition to the opportunity to meet with public officials about registering a business, financing, taxes, licensing and permits, the expo will offer free workshops on networking, customer service and marketing.
Mollis and RIEDC created We Mean Business to connect business owners with local, state and federal officials as well as to non-profit resources that can help their business. The expo will enable entrepreneurs to discuss issues that affect their business and to acquire information that they will need to start, grow or improve their business.
The sponsors include Citizens Bank, The Allied Group, BatchBlue Software, IKON Business Solutions, RIMES, United Healthcare, The Washington Trust Company, Wright Line and Xzito Creative Solutions.
The Secretary of State’s office works with every company registered to do business in Rhode Island, more than 60,000 companies in all. The office oversees recording commercial liens, protecting corporate trademarks and providing advice to small and start-up businesses.
For information about today's expo, call (888) 384-9704 or visit www.WeMeanBusinessRI.com.
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