DESIGNxRI

About Us

Founded in 2013, DESIGNxRI (DxRI) is Rhode Island’s only statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing design as a driver of economic development, innovation, and quality of place; created in recognition of the critical role design plays in strengthening communities, supporting small business growth, and building a resilient local economy.

DxRI builds value in the design sector by investing in design businesses, cultivating talent, fostering community connections, and linking designers to professional opportunities. DxRI produces programs and events that elevate the visibility and impact of design. Signature initiatives include Clambake: Creative Conversations, a networking and speaker series launched in 2013, and DESIGN WEEK RI, introduced in 2013 as a statewide festival showcasing the innovation and economic contributions of RI’s design community.

DxRI has delivered more than 350 programs, engaged over 15,000 participants, and supported more than 800 designers and design businesses. The organization has provided over 500 hours of business training and invested more than $1.5 million directly into design entrepreneurs through grants, mentorship, and capacity-building support.

DxRI convenes a broad interdisciplinary network spanning architecture, graphic design, UX/UI, product design, landscape architecture, and more. This inclusive approach is uncommon nationally and has helped build a connected statewide ecosystem that amplifies creative talent across Rhode Island.