Defense and Homeland Security

Overview

The Rhode Island defense industry — comprised of more than 100 organizations — employed more than 16,000 people and generated $2 billion in revenue in 2006. In the same year, more than $115 million in Homeland Security spending was invested in Rhode Island defense organizations. Only in Rhode Island can you find such a diverse portfolio of defense-related expertise concentrated in such a small geographic footprint. Rhode Island's well-networked defense sector supports multiple Department of Defense and Homeland Security needs, from simple engineering to sophisticated ocean-based warfare systems. The network is diverse and companies range from multinational corporations to start-ups that are moving out of the lab and into the marketplace.

OceanTech Expo '08

The annual OceanTech Expo is a unique, industry-led exposition that will feature new equipment, training and live demonstration of the most current technology available to the growing ocean technology and marine science industry in North America. This year's expo will be held September 30-October 3 at the Rhode Island Convention Center. For additional information, please visit the expo website - www.oceantechexpo.com.

The Defense Industry in Rhode Island: Economic Impact Report

The RIEDC, the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) and the Newport County Chamber of Commerce partnered and hired Ninigret Partners to establish the latest Economic Impact Report for the Defense Industry. The group felt that with the BRAC process behind us, the issue of benchmarking the State’s defense economy is critical to understanding how we shape policy for its continued success. The current report clearly demonstrates that the Rhode Island Defense Industry is growing. This report allows the RIEDC and the PTAC to strategically direct resources to the small businesses involved in this industry sector as part of their continued growth, as well as helping establish sound policy for all businesses involved in and associated with the industry.

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Rhode Island Port Security Communications Network

Rhode Island Port Security Communications NetworkIn 2006, Rhode Island concluded a ground-breaking port security demonstration project that brought public and private sector partners together to build a communications network for real-time, cross-agency monitoring of vessel traffic in Narragansett Bay. Because of Rhode Island’s well-networked community of defense experts, this project was executed quickly and at less cost than would have been possible in other areas of the country.

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Why Rhode Island?

RIEDC offers defense sector companies:

  • Connectivity and proximity to the Northeast’s robust network of defense-related industries
  • World-class in-state manufacturing expertise
  • 400 miles of shoreline and excellent highway, rail and airport service connectivity
  • Streamlined access to the state’s elected officials and regulatory agencies
  • Access to RIEDC’s portfolio of financial services and lending programs
  • Site selection and relocation assistance
  • Workforce training


Contact Information