The idea for a backpack lock for urban travelers earned top marks at the Rhode Island Business Plan Competition’s seventh annual Elevator Pitch Contest Wednesday night. more

Providence-based Andera Inc. has earned a spot on American Banker’s list of 10 Tech Companies to Watch thanks to its account and loan origination software. more

The University of Rhode Island plans to increase its presence in the state’s capital city, according to President David M. Dooley, as part of a strategy to better prepare its students for success as well as help Rhode Island’s economy grow out of the hole it is in. more

The Friday, Nov. 30, deadline is looming for the Rhode Island Business Plan Competition’s seventh annual Rhode Island Elevator Pitch Contest. more

Falling between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Saturday, Nov. 24 will be the third annual “Small Business Saturday.” more

The 2012 meeting of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, held Monday at the R.I. Convention Center, made news that could re-shape the region’s economy. more

Startup accelerator Betaspring is currently accepting applications for its spring 2013 session. more

The 13 social ventures participating in the 2012 Change Accelerator Incubator, a Social Enterprise Rhode Island program, celebrated their graduation on Thursday evening at Betaspring’s Chestnut St. headquarters. more

For the seventh consecutive year, the Rhode Island Business Plan Competition will host the Rhode Island Elevator Pitch Contest, during which participants will vie for $1,000 in cash prizes. more

The Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and the Rhode Island Science & Technology Advisory Council have released the second annual report measuring the progress of Rhode Island’s knowledge economy, the state’s developing hub of research and technology. more