Rhode Island, the smallest state in the U.S, has long proven that small size doesn’t mean small opportunity. One of the best examples of that is Statewide Business After Hours, a collaboration among the 14 chambers of commerce across the state that has become a cornerstone of the Rhode Island professional and economic networking scene.
Every year, hundreds of business owners and employees descend upon the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick to participate in a long-standing tradition of networking and sharing.
Visitors were treated to food and drink samples, giveaways, drawings and other fun activities, other vendors demonstrated their capabilities and services. Since its inception, this event has blossomed into a must-attend event for any networker.
Lauren Slocum, President of the Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce, said that the event gets bigger each year because people who attend share their experiences with their colleagues.
“This is the one time on our calendar that enables all of the Chambers to come together and show support for the local business community,” she said. “Attendees see companies from other parts of the state that they may not otherwise be aware of and meet potential business partners in the meantime. It’s one of the events many people are looking forward to attending.”
The idea behind the event was simple but powerful: create a statewide gathering where business professionals could connect across city and town lines and businesses could highlight their products and services.
In the late 1990s, the RI Chambers of Commerce united to bring that idea to life. The first Statewide Business After Hours took place at Rhodes on the Pawtuxet in Cranston, a central and iconic venue that provided the perfect backdrop for this new kind of networking event that brought together over 300 people.
The event quickly gained momentum and grew to over 800 people by 2016. The networking event offered a broader reach than traditional local after-hours events by uniting professionals and from every corner of the Ocean State. It wasn’t long before it became one of the most anticipated networking events of the year.
“It was great to see a wide array of people attending this event,” Lauren said. “We kept seeing new companies and established businesses alike come and expand their networks. Word-of-mouth helped spread the popularity of this event. It continues growing, which is a good sign.”
A New Home in Warwick.
In 2021, the event found a new home at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick, where it continues to thrive. The new venue offers a large, flexible layout that accommodates a growing number of vendors and attendees.
Statewide Business After Hours continues to evolve and now features samplings of delicious foods from local caterers, restaurants, and hotels. Thus, creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere for mingling and conversation.
A Showcase of Rhode Island Businesses.
The 2025 event, held on April 30, was one of the most successful to date. Over 100 businesses displayed as vendors, showcasing products and services ranging from finance and technology to wellness and hospitality. The event drew more than 600 attendees, including small business owners, nonprofit leaders, corporate professionals, and municipal officials.
The energy was high as attendees made new contacts, explored potential partnerships, and celebrated the strength and variety within the Rhode Island business community.
Collaboration That Strengthens the Economy.
What makes the Statewide Business After Hours so impactful is its spirit of collaboration over competition. By working together, chambers from across the state create opportunities that extend far beyond their individual communities. The event serves as a vivid reminder that in Rhode Island, regional cooperation can unlock statewide success.
“Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or an established business leader, Statewide Business After Hours offers an unmatched opportunity to connect, promote, and grow – all while enjoying great food and conversation,” Slocum said.
The Central Rhode Island Chamber is already hard at work preparing for another fantastic event in 2026!
For more details about their next Statewide Chamber Business After Hours, their other upcoming events, and/or to learn more about joining the Chamber, please contact them at (401) 732-1100 or Business@CentralRIchamber.com.
