PROGRAMS & EVENTS

The Industry Spotlight Series showcases Rhode Island’s diverse industrial landscape, featuring established companies, mid-market businesses, startups, and service providers. These events foster stakeholder networking among industry leaders, investors, academics, prospective employees, and community members, encouraging the exchange of ideas and insights. 

Each event educates attendees about the industry’s ecosystem, success factors, challenges, and opportunities, while offering a deep dive into the growth and innovation strategies of emerging brands. Startups and turnaround companies gain visibility, guidance, and connections to thrive within the industry. 

Blue Tech Talks is a light summer series that takes place during the lunch hour (12-1 pm) throughout the month of June. Hosted at the Innovate Newport Conference Hall, each talk features a local “blue tech” company – which encompasses anything from underwater technology like sensing and acoustics, to aquatics and fisheries, antonymous vehicles, naval defense technology, and more! Rhode Island and the Greater Newport Region have become a leading hub for ocean and blue technology in the US and around the world. Whether you are an industry expert, angel investor, or curious community member, come dive in and find out why!

2026 Schedule:

Where founders break bread. Gather. Grow. Go further – together.

This bi-monthly dinner series is designed exclusively for startup founders like you—visionaries committed to scaling their businesses, tackling challenges, and creating meaningful impact. At each dinner, you’ll participate in dynamic conversations on key startup topics, guided by Guest Mentors who bring a wealth of experience and insights.

• Annual program runs January-December (2026 Cohort currently in progress)
• Cohorts meet every other month
• 6 dinners per cohort + end-of-year celebration
• Topical conversations with an expert Guest Mentor
• Locations: Venues across Newport, RI region

Interested in joining in 2027? Fill out this form.

Interested in being a Guest Mentor? Fill out this form.

Innovate Newport hosts a number of public events and programs with our in-house partners including:

• RIHub
• Salve Regina University
• Blue Venture Forum
• RISBDC and RI SBA
• Rhode Island Commerce Corporation
• The Greater Newport Chamber of Commerce
• And more!

Check out the events calendar to see all upcoming partner events.