Inform. Advocate. Transform.
Providing Rhode Islanders with research, analysis, and advocacy on transformational and equitable fiscal and policy changes to advance racial and economic justice.
Providing Rhode Islanders with research, analysis, and advocacy on transformational and equitable fiscal and policy changes to advance racial and economic justice.
What Will It Really Take? Rhode Island's Response to a Changing Federal Landscape
Join the Economic Progress Institute for our 15th Annual Policy & Budget Conference on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 8:00–11:30 AM at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick, Rhode Island.
This year's theme, "What Will It Really Take? Rhode Island's Response to a Changing Federal Landscape," comes at a pivotal moment for our state. As major federal policy changes reshape healthcare, food assistance, tax policy, and economic opportunity, Rhode Island faces critical choices that will influence the well-being of individuals, families, and communities for years to come.
The conference will bring together policymakers, advocates, community leaders, researchers, business and philanthropic partners, students, and engaged Rhode Islanders to examine these challenges and explore practical solutions. Attendees will also be among the first to receive insights from EPI's newly released 2026 Rhode Island Standard of Need Report, our signature analysis of what it truly costs to meet basic needs in Rhode Island and how changing federal and state policies affect the ability of families to thrive.
Register, become a sponsor, or explore other ways to support the conference.
The Economic Progress Institute's 2026 Legislative Session Top 20 Wins highlights the most significant policy achievements of the year that advance economic security, opportunity, and equity for Rhode Islanders. The report also recognizes key defensive victories and the coalitions and legislative champions behind these successes.
Money awarded to 80K working Rhode islanders by increasing the EITC
RI workers with raised incomes by increasing the minimum wage
RI workers provided with access to earned sick time to care for themselves and loved ones
RI citizens with protected medicaid coverage and access to senior care
The Economic Progress Institute (EPI) is a leader in making important gains for tens of thousands of Rhode Islanders. With your support, we are putting more Rhode Islanders on a path to economic progress.
Together, we can advance policy solutions for all Rhode Islanders that will create good job opportunities, a safe place to live, adequate food, and affordable health care.