Federal policies have created new challenges for RIBBA. How it will overcome.
Will Richmond- RIBBA measures success by its impact on businesses, workforce opportunities, and collective action.
- Recent funding cuts due to shifts in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion priorities pose a significant challenge to RIBBA's work.
- RIBBA celebrates a 98% completion rate in job training programs and has helped clients secure significant funding.
The Providence Journal and United Way of Rhode Island have partnered to highlight the state's nonprofits. Each week, a nonprofit identified by United Way will be spotlighted in the Providence Sunday Journal, and the United Way will share how it supports that organization.
This week, we feature the Rhode Island Black Business Association, which seeks to eliminate the state's "racial wealth gap so all Rhode Islanders can thrive."
We asked president and CEO Lisa Ranglin to tell us more about the RIBBA.
What is your mission and vision?
RIBBA seeks to eliminate the racial wealth gap so all Rhode Islanders can thrive and envisions a future where individuals, businesses and communities are elevated through holistic programming that meets basic human needs while creating pathways to economic prosperity. Together, we empower and uplift, creating a brighter tomorrow for all Rhode Island communities.
How do you measure success?
At RIBBA, we measure success by the impact we have on businesses we empower, the workforce opportunities we create and the collective action we inspire. True success is seen in the resilience of the entrepreneurs we support, the growth of individuals who break through barriers and the ripple effects that uplift future generations.
What are the biggest challenges currently?
RIBBA is facing one of the most urgent and profound challenges in its history. The recent shifts in federal priorities regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion have resulted in devastating funding cuts that threaten the very foundation of our work. These policy changes have a direct impact, stripping critical resources from small businesses, entrepreneurs, and underserved individuals who rely on them to survive and succeed. RIBBA serves thousands of individuals, and over 100 RIBBA clients are within the low- to moderate-income threshold. These individuals depend on organizations like RIBBA to help them become sustainable and thrive.
The ripple effect of recent Executive Orders will be catastrophic. Without essential federal, municipal and private funding, our ability to provide direct support to business owners, job seekers, low-income individuals and working families will be severely compromised. The consequences will be felt across our communities in ways that cannot be ignored: fewer jobs created, more businesses forced to close their doors, and an increase in food and housing insecurity for families already living on the margins. These policy changes have caused great uncertainty and concern not only for our organization, but all those that walk through our doors each day.
This is more than a budgetary issue – it’s a fight for economic justice. At RIBBA, we refuse to stand by while these harmful policies dismantle the progress we’ve made. We are doubling down on our efforts to secure alternative funding, strengthen strategic partnerships and advocate for the communities that are at risk. But we cannot do this alone. Now, more than ever, we need our partners, supporters and allies to stand with us in this fight to ensure that economic opportunity is not stripped away from those who need it most.
How can volunteers get involved?
Those looking to get involved can visit our website at ribba.org to explore the many ways to make an impact. We’re actively seeking mentors for our workforce development programs, volunteers to support our events and community members who are passionate about driving change. Whether sharing your expertise, lending a helping hand or offering your time in any way, your involvement helps us empower businesses and professionals. Join us in creating lasting change.
What are some recent accomplishments or projects you’re proud of?
RIBBA is proud to celebrate several recent accomplishments that reflect our impact on the communities we serve. We achieved a 98% completion rate across our job training programs, with 100% of participants experiencing increased wages, greater responsibilities or promotions upon completion. Additionally, our organization submitted 85% of all MBE/WBE applications for the initial Minority Business Accelerator statewide initiative, helping minority-owned businesses gain their MBE/WBE certification. In 2024 alone, we helped our clients secure $1.2 million in lending capital and $80,000 in grants, providing critical funding to fuel their growth and success. These milestones showcase our commitment to economic equity and empowerment.
For more information about RIBBA, call 401-383-1179 or email info@ribba.org.