Rhode Island is backing its innovation economy with a new state-funded program aimed at helping local inventors secure patents. Governor Dan McKee and Secretary of Commerce Liz Tanner have announced the first round of awards through the Invention Incentive Program, totaling $51,322.50 across twelve recipients.
The program offers reimbursements of up to $5,000 for costs associated with filing patents through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Covered expenses include legal and filing fees, common financial hurdles for early-stage inventors and small businesses.
“This is about investing in the people and ideas that will drive Rhode Island’s economic future,” said Governor McKee. “We’re giving local inventors the tools they need to protect their work and move toward growth, job creation, and long-term success.”
The grant is part of Rhode Island Commerce’s broader Innovation Initiatives, supporting the state’s RI 2030 economic plan. It targets a key pain point for entrepreneurs: the high cost of securing intellectual property protection, which often slows or stalls commercialization.
“All great inventions start with an idea—and protecting that idea is critical to turning it into a business opportunity,” said Secretary Tanner. “These grants help safeguard homegrown innovation and create the conditions for startups to grow here in Rhode Island.”
By reducing the cost barrier to patent filing, state officials aim to accelerate product development and strengthen Rhode Island’s reputation as a launchpad for entrepreneurs. The program also reflects a growing trend among states to invest in innovation infrastructure to retain talent and boost regional competitiveness.
