RI MADE Program Grant is sponsored by State of Rhode Island. This program assists Rhode Island companies with implementing automation and robotics. Phase 1 involves assessments, followed by a grant for technical assistance or robotics purchases to address assessment recommendations.

RI MADE - Accelerating the Rhode Island Defense Ecosystem - Polaris MEP Hear the stories of RI MADE’s impact in this NEW video! The RI MADE program provides a range of resources which advance Automation & Robotics, Cyber Resiliency, and Risk to strengthen and accelerate Rhode Island manufacturing companies and the nation’s defense manufacturing ecosystem.

This Defense Manufacturing Community program is: funded by the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation, in collaboration with more than 30 Consortium members and partners, and Please check back soon for more grant opportunities. “Nautilus Defense has procured a precision braiding machine through the RI MADE program in support of our development and production of the world’s smallest conductive microyarns.

This machine has enabled Nautilus to advance both the state of the art and manufacturing readiness of this critical material technology. ” – Jim Owens, Founder & CEO, Nautilus Defense Resources to Assist and Strengthen The Entire RI Defense Ecosystem The RI MADE program will make long-term investments in research and development, critical skills, facilities, workforce and small business support.

The initiative is funded by a $5 Million grant from the DoD Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation (OLDCC). Support is offered to both companies currently contracting directly or indirectly to the defense sector AND companies which hope to expand their business or operational capabilities by becoming part of the national defense manufacturing supply chain.

RI MADE will implement a minimum of 50 projects with Rhode Island manufacturing companies, with the goal of mitigating risk and advancing Automation & Robotics and Cyber Resiliency. The resources we offer through this program include technical and/or capital assistance and support of up to $50,000.

For Rhode Island MANUFACTURERS Receive three assessments, together valued at more than $3,000, of your cybersecurity, automation & robotics, and business risks. Have the opportunity to apply for up to $50K of assistance and capital investment. Receive training and education in Cybersecurity, Automation & Robotics, Business Improvement consulting.

Get inspired (AND PAID!) as you are introduced to RI’s innovative manufacturing community. For Current & Future PARTNERS RI MADE is designed to build strength into the entire state manufacturing ecosystem.

Meet our founding Consortium members and learn about the Ocean State’s defense and shipbuilding industries. Program Achievements (as of December 2025) Organizations Collaborating RI Manufacturers Assisted WORKSHOPS, TRAINING EVENTS