For more than 27 years, the Economic Progress Institute (EPI) has been a trusted voice for racial and economic justice in Rhode Island. Through research, education, coalition building, and advocacy, we transform data into action — advancing policies that expand opportunity and strengthen economic security for all Rhode Islanders.

Our work has helped secure major policy victories, including expanding paid family leave and childcare assistance, protecting Medicaid and SNAP, increasing the minimum wage, improving access to healthcare, advancing tax fairness, and creating Rhode Island's first permanent refundable Child Tax Credit. Explore our 2026 Legislative Session Top 20 Wins to see the impact of this work.

As sweeping federal policy changes reshape healthcare, food assistance, immigration, tax policy, and economic opportunity, Rhode Island faces a defining moment. How we respond will determine not only the future of our state, but also the strength of our communities and our democracy.

Join us for EPI's 15th Annual Policy & Budget Conference as we explore one central question: What Will It Really Take?

The conference will launch the 2026 Rhode Island Standard of Need (RISN) Report—EPI's signature analysis of what it truly costs to meet basic needs—and examine how federal and state policy changes are affecting children, families, older adults, immigrants, and communities across Rhode Island.

Through thought-provoking presentations, inspiring speakers, and a dynamic panel discussion, national and local leaders will explore the real-world impacts of today's changing landscape and the partnerships, policies, leadership, and civic engagement needed to build a stronger, more equitable Rhode Island.

Whether you're a policymaker, advocate, nonprofit or business leader, philanthropist, educator, student, or an engaged community member, you'll leave with new insights, meaningful connections, and practical ideas for strengthening Rhode Island's future.

New This Year: Conference Resource Package

Enhance your conference experience by adding the optional Conference Resource Package to your registration. You'll receive EPI's 2026 Policy Resource Collection, including:

A printed copy of the 2026 Rhode Island Standard of Need Report
EPI's 2027 Rhode Island Policy & Budget Calendar—your year-round guide to key legislative dates, budget milestones, and policy deadlines.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Explore our sponsorship opportunities and help EPI make a significant impact on the community by supporting initiatives that advance economic equity and drive meaningful change. For your convenience, you can also sign up to become a sponsor by clicking Donate & Tickets.

Other Ways to Support Our Mission

There are many ways to advance racial and economic justice in Rhode Island:

Register for the 15th Annual Policy & Budget Conference
Join EPI's Sustainability Circle by making a multi-year investment that strengthens our research, advocacy, and coalition-building work for years to come.
Support EPI's 2nd Annual Giving Month (September 1–30) by making a gift to advance EPI's mission (please find link at the bottom when you click Donate & Tickets). As a thank-you, supporters who make a qualifying donation of $50 and more may receive EPI's 2026 Policy Resource Collection, featuring a printed copy of the 2026 Rhode Island Standard of Need Report and/or EPI's 2027 Rhode Island Policy & Budget Calendar.
Follow Us and Share EPI's work with your colleagues, friends, and community to help grow the movement for economic opportunity and racial equity across Rhode Island.

Thank you for partnering with EPI to advance policies that ensure every Rhode Islander has the opportunity to meet their basic needs—and thrive.

What Will It Really Take?

Rhode Island's Response to A Changing Federal Landscape

Team Members