Marine Trades

Overview

With 400 miles of coastline and a strong cluster of marine-related industries, Rhode Island’s open water supports shipping terminals, marinas, docks and marine industrial sites. We are also the home to world-class oceanographic research by academic, military and private sector firms.

Rhode Island’s compact geography ensures easy and efficient access to the best network of marine and environmental technology companies and customers in the world. Our partners include world-class leading edge technology companies and innovative collaborators such as Blount Shipbuilding, Electric Boat, Eric Goetz Custom Sailboats, Hall Spars, Hunt Yachts, KVH Industries, Pearson Composites and Legacy Yachts.

Why Rhode Island?

RIEDC offers marine sector companies:

  • Open water access to marinas, docks and marine industrial sites
  • Easy access to a large, established customer base, supply chain and infrastructure
  • Access to more than 12,000 highly skilled workers
  • Access to world-class marine building and technology partners and an active Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA)
  • Tax incentives – no sales tax is levied on boats registered in Rhode Island
  • Financing – loans are available through the Small Business Loan Fund and other financing programs
  • Workforce development – state funded customized training programs, such as a certification in Marine Systems, are available from multiple institutions
  • Site selection assistance and guidance on permitting and regulatory issues


Contact Information