Small Business Development Specialist

Company Description

RIBBA is a non-profit organization dedicated to closing the wealth gap in Rhode Island and empowering all residents to thrive. The organization fosters equitable opportunities for future generations through its innovative program model, which includes financial empowerment, workforce development, business development, contracting, learning series, capital pathways, advocacy, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

RIBBA is made up of individuals and businesses of all sizes, and membership is open to the public. The organization strives to build a purpose-driven Association where people unite and take action to create lasting change. RIBBA values diversity and celebrates the contributions of people of all backgrounds, regardless of ethnicity, race, gender, abilities, socioeconomic status, culture, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

Role Description

This position requires a dynamic self-starter who is willing to work to build and sustain relationships with local small business communities. The Small Business Development Specialist plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth initiation of new business relationships and projects within the organization. This role is responsible for gathering, reviewing, and processing all necessary information related to prospective clients or projects to ensure alignment with the company's policies, goals, and capabilities. The Specialist is responsible for generating new clients, meeting the needs of business clients, and providing services and opportunities to them as needed through our Business Services Program, Microlending, & other programs.

Key Responsibilities 

Client & Business Development Support 

• Provide one-on-one consultation services to new and existing businesses to strengthen operations, marketing, compliance, and growth strategies. 
• Research customer requests and coordinate with staff and partnering organizations to deliver applicable services in an effective and responsive manner. 
• Connect business owners to potential city, state, federal, and regional resources as appropriate. 
• Help resolve issues, including regulatory and permitting, by acting as a liaison to state agencies and partners such as DBR, DEM, DOH, DLT, and others. 
• Review client submission packages for bidding, grant application, license renewals, and certifications to ensure accuracy and completeness. 

Sales & Relationship Building 

• Cultivate long-term relationships with clients to understand their needs and connect them with tailored RIBBA programs and resources. 
• Build and maintain relationships with partnering organizations, funders, and referral partners to increase client pipeline opportunities. 
• Serve as a liaison between RIBBA’s Marketing team, Website Consultant, and clients to ensure client work and success stories are highlighted across digital platforms. 
• Develop client success stories that demonstrate RIBBA’s impact, increasing visibility and engagement across the business community. 
• Conduct proactive outreach and field visits to businesses, including on-site customer highlights, to deepen trust and community presence. 

Workshops & Community Engagement 

• Facilitate and conduct monthly workshops, technical assistance sessions, and seminars designed to equip entrepreneurs with actionable business skills. 
• Represent RIBBA at trade shows, industry-specific forums, and community events to expand outreach and promote services. 
• Partner with community organizations, government agencies, and local businesses to coordinate joint programming and outreach initiatives. 
• Support efforts to increase community visibility and involvement with members enrolled in segment-specific programs. 

Grant & Loan Program Management 

• Run RIBBA’s in-house grant and loan programs by: 
• Processing applications and ensuring complete documentation. 
• Coordinating with underwriting teams. 
• Collecting necessary client documents. 
• Working with the Loan Committee on funding decisions. 
• Track disbursements, forgiveness, and reporting requirements to ensure compliance with funder guidelines and internal policies. 
• Assist clients in navigating loan and grant processes while maintaining transparency and accountability. 

Operations & Data Integrity 

• Maintain accurate client records in the CRM system, ensuring all documentation is complete, compliant, and confidential. 
• Develop and maintain communications in a cooperative and professional manner, treating all employees, clients, and partners with respect and courtesy. 
• Support internal process improvements that strengthen service delivery and client outcomes. 

 Requirements 

• Project management or customer service experience preferred. 
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a team, manage multiple projects, and meet deadlines consistently. 
• Spanish or Creole language proficiency a plus. 
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills. 
• Strong ability to establish and maintain professional relationships with individuals of diverse social and cultural backgrounds. 
• Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with integrity. 
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Community Development, or related field; or equivalent applicable experience. 

Competencies 

• Analytical Thinking 
• Problem-Solving Skills 
• Team Collaboration 
• Adaptability and Flexibility 
• Customer Focus 
• Ethical Decision-Making 

Equal Opportunity  

RIBBA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of RIBBA that no employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, and/or gender identity or expression. 

Location and Schedule 

• In-person role.
• Monday to Friday with occasional weekends as required. 

Benefits 

• Paid time off 
• 13 Paid Holidays
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance 
• Supplemental Insurance Options 
• Retirement Plan (401k) with Employee Match
• Summer Fridays and Holiday Break
• Professional Development Opportunities