2025 Small Business Week Sponsor Information Packet
Thank you for partnering with us to celebrate and elevate Rhode Island’s small business community during the 2025 Small Business Week Event Series! As a valued sponsor, your presence and participation are critical to the success of these events—and to the business owners we serve. This document outlines everything you need to know and prepare for across the three major events. It also includes answers to key questions to help you make the most of your sponsorship.
2025 Small Business Week
Events Overview
Congressional Breakfast (Invitation Only)
Date: Friday, April 25, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: CHOP – Culinary Hub of Providence, 211 Washington St. Providence, RI 02903
Sponsor Speaking Opportunity
This event is exclusively sponsored by our Legacy Builder Title Sponsor, who will have the sole speaking opportunity during the program. No other sponsor speaking slots are available at this event. All sponsors attending are invited to network with Rhode Island’s congressional delegation, our 2025 award winners, small business leaders, and community partners over breakfast.
2025 Small Business Week
Events Overview
“Connect and Innovate” Small Business Empowerment Summit
Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2025
Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick, 801 Greenwich Ave, Warwick, RI 02886
Sponsor Booth Setup:
All sponsors with booth/table benefits will be provided space in the exhibitor area (Main Street Marketplace) Setup begins Tuesday, May 6th at 7:00 AM (We ask that set up be completed by 8:00 AM prior to the start of the Summit )
Other Vendor Displays May Include:
Marketing materials (brochures, giveaways, signage)
Interactive demos (tech tools, apps, etc.)
Services (financial advising, HR, insurance, etc.)
Products (retail, food/beverage samples)
You are encouraged to bring promotional materials and engage with attendees meaningfully.
2025 Small Business Week
Events Overview
“Connect and Innovate” Small Business Empowerment Summit (Cont.)
Pitch Event (Afternoon Session):
Some sponsors may participate as judges during the live pitch competition.
Judging Panelist Responsibilities:
Attend from approx 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Review 5–7 brief business pitches (5 min each)
Provide written or verbal feedback
Participate in Q&A
Optional: Present a prize or recognition
Judges will receive pitch decks and evaluation forms in advance.
2025 Small Business Week
Events Overview
National Small Business Week
Awards Luncheon
Date: Thursday, May 8, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick, 801 Greenwich Ave, Warwick, RI 02886
Sponsor Panel Participation:
Select sponsors may be featured as guest speakers during the luncheon program.
Topics may include: small business support, partnership stories, industry insights
A brief prep call will be scheduled the week prior On-site arrival requested by 11:00 AM for check-in and mic testing
2025 Small Business Week
What We Need From You
To ensure everything goes smoothly, please provide the following:
Company Logo (high-res PNG or EPS)
Company Name & Brief Description (for printed and digital materials)
Names of Attendees (for each event)
Confirmation of Booth/Table Needs (power, signage, etc.)
Confirmation of Interest in Speaking/Panel/Judging (Deadline: April 21)
2025 Small Business Week
Questions Answered
Q: What’s expected if you’re speaking at the Breakfast or Pitch event?
A: For the breakfast, a short greeting focused on community support (not promotional). For the Pitch event, judges are asked to listen, score, and give constructive feedback.
Q: What are panelist expectations at the Luncheon?
A: A light, moderated discussion (no prep presentation needed) with guidance in advance. You’ll speak about your role in the business ecosystem or share insights related to small business growth.
Q: Can we display products or offer services at the Summit?
A: Absolutely! Vendors typically display brochures, branded items, interactive demos, and giveaways. You can sell or sample products as long as they are pre-approved.
Q: Will there be access to power or internet at booths?
A: Please let us know your tech needs in advance—basic power access is available, but must be requested early. Wi-Fi will be available on-site.
Contact & Coordination:
For questions, updates, or to confirm your participation in specific aspects of the week, please contact:
Ed Naya enaya@skillsforri.com 401-465-4433
We are honored to partner with you to celebrate and uplift small businesses across Rhode Island. Thank you for making this week one to remember!