From Providence Journal: Lisa Raiola has changed the face of small businesses in Rhode Island. That’s why the founder and president of Hope & Main in Warren, RI, is USA TODAY’s Woman of the Year for the Ocean State. Ten years ago, when Hope & Main opened its doors in an old school building in Warren, a new chapter began for culinary entrepreneurship in the state. Cooks and food artisans with a product and a dream now had a home, not just to cook but also to learn about business and develop a path to success. For a few thousand dollars, they could walk into the former school building and start cooking. The nonprofit has helped launch 500 food businesses, 40% of which are minority-owned, with immigrants from Haiti, Mexico, and Israel among them. Sixty percent of the businesses are owned by women.
There is no question that people often overlook the positive impacts of independent, locally owned (Indie Local) businesses. The local community that an Indie Local serves may understand these impacts, but those located further away may need to be made aware of these success stories. In future posts, with your help, we will feature a few of the top Indie Locals in the nation.
You can nominate your favorite Indie Local by emailing us today.