What’s Happening: RI Small business shopping village

June 27, 2026 - 21:17

A new shopping village is coming to Providence Place this summer, giving local small businesses and entrepreneurs a chance to put their work in front of a wider audience. The initiative, set to launch in the coming months, will transform a section of the mall into a dedicated space for homegrown vendors.

Organizers say the goal is to support the local economy by offering affordable retail space to startups and artisans who might not otherwise afford a traditional storefront. Shoppers can expect a rotating mix of handmade crafts, specialty foods, clothing, and other unique products from the Rhode Island area. The village will operate on a temporary basis, allowing different businesses to cycle through over the season.

This move comes as malls across the country look for ways to fill empty spaces and draw foot traffic. By focusing on local talent, Providence Place hopes to create a destination that feels more like a community market than a standard shopping center. For small business owners, it is a low-risk chance to test the market and build a customer base. The exact opening date and list of participating vendors have not been announced, but more details are expected in the weeks ahead.