FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
03/16/2022
CONTACT
Ashley Medeiros
ashley.medeiros@nullinnovationstudio.org
Innovation Studio and ONE Neighborhood Builders launch BIZ BODEGA, The New Entrepreneurial Home in Providence RI
PROVIDENCE — Biz Bodega is an initiative of ONE Neighborhood Builders managed by Innovation Studio Inc. a non-profit organization with a mission to promote innovation, entrepreneurship and business development by fostering new businesses with inclusive programs created from considering the unique and intrinsic characteristics of each of the communities we serve. Located at 222 Manton Avenue Providence, RI, Biz Bodega seeks to support new and aspiring entrepreneurs and existing small business owners throughout the Central Providence community.
Biz Bodega is a resource center and public space designed to be a one-stop shop that provides access to a range of resources and services to the entrepreneurial community through a community-centered space where anyone can access the knowledge, tools and skills to achieve their business goals. From turning an idea into a business, to getting financial access to boost your business, Biz Bodega specialists can help.
Led by Amy Erickson, Rhode Island Program Director, and Walther Morales, Director of Entrepreneurship, Biz Bodega collaborates with several organizations that provide important services to the business community. Together, they provide access to experts, entrepreneurship courses, small business training, events and other services.
“We are excited to reach out to the community and collaborate with local small businesses to help launch this new project. We look forward to working with partner organizations as well as institutions that are interested in supporting local entrepreneurs and small business owners,” said Amy Erickson.
“ONE Neighborhood Builders is extremely pleased to help make the opening of Biz Bodega at 222 Manton a reality,” said Jennifer Hawkins, Executive Director of ONE Neighborhood Builders. “Central Providence is home to many talented, resilient and creative entrepreneurs and vibrant businesses. Being an entrepreneur is not easy, so we are grateful to the Biz Bodega partners for establishing a one-stop shop for businesses to access resources and support. Our entire community benefits when our small businesses thrive and grow.”
ONE Neighborhood Builders (ONE|NB) is a nonprofit community development leader in Rhode Island that is expanding its work to the broader Greater Providence area while maintaining its deep roots in its historic home of Olneyville. ONE|NB’s mission is to develop affordable housing and engage neighbors to cultivate healthy, vibrant, and safe communities. Since its founding in 1988, then as Olneyville Housing Corporation, ONE|NB has developed 596 affordable homes, as well as more than 35,000 square feet of commercial and community space, providing amenities and job opportunities, totaling $134 million in investments.
The Biz Bodega is open Tuesday – Friday from 10 am-5 pm and Saturday from 10 am-2 pm. Community members are welcome to stop in and use the newly designed workspace or meet with Business Specialist Cynthia Munrayos. Services are currently available in English and Spanish. Please visit www.bizbodega.org to learn more or pre-schedule a 1-2-1 business support consultation today.
