About this programme
The Innovation Voucher Program is a grant from the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation that funds up to $75,000 per award for research and development work. It runs on two tracks depending on the applicant.
The Knowledge Provider Voucher pairs a business with a college, university, research institute, or hospital to run an R&D project that advances innovation and growth. The Manufacturing Voucher gives Rhode Island manufacturers internal R&D funding to reinvent or advance their product offerings and stay competitive.
The program targets specific industries: Advanced Materials, Ocean Economy, Defense, Energy and Environment, Food Systems, and Life Sciences.
Who can apply
The business must have 500 or fewer employees, be registered to do business in Rhode Island, and have at least 51% of its employees based in Rhode Island.
Knowledge Provider Voucher applicants must partner with an eligible research institution (a college, university, research institute, or hospital).
Manufacturing Voucher applicants must hold a manufacturing NAICS code.
How to apply
- Download the Innovation Voucher Budget Template.
- Submit your application, including the completed budget template, through the Innovation Voucher Application Portal.
- Applications are evaluated on impact, technological innovation, market demand, and commercialization potential.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Innovation Voucher Budget Template
Frequently asked
How much can I get from the Innovation Voucher Program?
Up to $75,000 per grant.
What is the difference between the two voucher tracks?
The Knowledge Provider Voucher requires partnering with a college, university, research institute, or hospital on an R&D project; the Manufacturing Voucher gives Rhode Island manufacturers internal R&D funding and requires a manufacturing NAICS code.
Does my business need to be based in Rhode Island?
Yes, you must be registered to do business in Rhode Island with at least 51% of employees based in the state, and have 500 or fewer employees total.
What are applications judged on?
Impact, technological innovation, market demand, and commercialization potential.
When is the next funding round?
Rhode Island Commerce runs the program in periodic rounds; interested applicants can join the mailing list for notifications of the next window.
More funding in Rhode Island
Breakthrough Lab (B-Lab) Summer Accelerator
Nelson Center for Entrepreneurship, Brown University · Rhode Island
An 8-week Brown University summer accelerator paying student founders a $4,000 fellowship plus mentoring and co-working space.
Brown Venture Prize
Nelson Center for Entrepreneurship, Brown University · Rhode Island
A $50,000 total prize pool for Brown University student ventures with demonstrated traction and growth potential.
Hazeltine Grants
Nelson Center for Entrepreneurship, Brown University · Rhode Island
$500 to $1,000 equity-free grants for Brown University students building engineering or technology projects.
Providence Business Loan Fund — Microenterprise Loan Program
City of Providence, administered by the Providence Business Loan Fund · Rhode Island
Loans of $5,000 to $50,000 for small, established Providence microenterprises owned by low- to moderate-income residents.
Providence Business Loan Fund — Small Business Loan Program
City of Providence, administered by the Providence Business Loan Fund · Rhode Island
Secured loans of $50,000 to $500,000 for Providence businesses that commit to creating or retaining jobs.
SEG Loan Fund
Social Enterprise Greenhouse · Rhode Island
Loans of $10,000 to $25,000 with no traditional collateral required, for established Rhode Island social enterprises ready to expand.
All 15 programmes in Rhode Island →
Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.