Rhode Island is making a major investment in its blue economy with $9.7 million in Innovation Campus grants announced Wednesday by Governor Dan McKee and Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner. The funding will support two new campuses focused on ocean technology commercialization and job creation.
The grants are part of the state’s Innovation Campus Initiative, launched through a $20 million voter-approved bond in 2016. The two new projects—expected to attract matching private and federal investment—are projected to generate 425 new jobs over the next 10 years.
The recipients are:
- The Blue Robotics Lab, located at Unity Park in Bristol, will receive $4 million. The lab, a new nonprofit initiative operated by MassRobotics, aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of underwater robotics.
- The Ocean Technology Innovation Center at the University of Rhode Island Bay Campus in Narragansett will receive $5.7 million. Managed by the URI Research Foundation, the center will serve as a hub for ocean tech startups, offering access to advanced testing facilities like wave and tow tanks.
“Rhode Island is where innovation thrives,” McKee said. “These grants are a strategic investment in our blue economy—creating jobs, expanding opportunity, and positioning our state as a national leader in ocean tech.”
Tanner added, “By supporting these new campuses, we’re creating pathways for groundbreaking research and new jobs that strengthen Rhode Island’s leadership in ocean innovation.”
Both campuses will operate as public-private partnerships. Unity Park, LLC and MassRobotics will provide a dollar-for-dollar match for the Bristol lab, while URI will leverage federal support and collaborate with multiple industry partners.
Marc Parlange, president of URI, said the investment “translates discovery into opportunity—and builds a stronger, more innovative Rhode Island for all.”
Like Newport Buzz? We depend on the generosity of readers like you who support us, to help with our mission to keep you informed and entertained with local, independent news and content. We truly appreciate your trust and support!
