RFP-Blue Youth Innovation Grant

The Blue Youth Innovation Grant, managed by the Ocean Tech Hub—a collaborative effort involving the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation, the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, and the Community College of Rhode Island—aims to cultivate student interest and develop skills in key technological fields such as robotics, sensors, advanced materials, composites, and artificial intelligence/machine learning, with a particular emphasis on undersea applications. The initiative seeks to prepare at least 100 students for future education and careers in these emerging industries, which are vital for regional and national economic growth and security. The grant opportunity, identified as RFP-2505, was posted on February 20, 2025, with a response deadline of March 28, 2025, and is targeted at organizations within the SLED (State, Local, Education, and Nonprofit) sector in Rhode Island. Funding for the project ranges from $500,000 to $2,000,000, reflecting its substantial scope and importance. The contract emphasizes fostering workforce development in high-tech sectors aligned with the state's economic priorities, with the ultimate goal of building a skilled pipeline of students equipped to contribute to the evolving ocean technology industry. Interested parties can find additional details and submit responses through the Rhode Island purchasing portal.