BUSINESS WALK

BUSINESS WALK REVIEW

The business walk brought together business and community leaders to help make Greater Newport a better place to do business. Following the walk each individual questionnaire response was reviewed and combined to provide collective data about the strengths and challenges of the region. Detailed reports were provided to each participating community, as well as, state and local leaders, business support organizations and state agencies. Each and every comment and suggested made by the business leaders was detailed in the reports. The Department of Business Regulations was notified of all concerns regarding state and local business regulations. 

The Connect Greater Newport Steering Committee has taken time to review the data, comments and suggestions. This information will be used to inform decisions made by the committee and drive our strategic plan moving forward. Discussions around workforce initiatives, internet connectivity and transportation are already underway. 

Additionally, communities have already engaged in discussions and began generating ideas to implement the suggestions. In many of the communities, Economic Development Committees are discussing ways to remove barriers so businesses succeed. One example, is Portsmouth’s EDC reviewing current signage ordinances so they are more business friendly. Other communities are also looking to implement events and services to support business retention and growth. Warren is working with the Rhode Island Department of Training and Labor to host a workforce event to help business attract talent.