Providence, RI — March 23, 2026— RIHub, Rhode Island’s central innovation hub supporting high-growth startups, is proud to announce the return of Hope Hopkins to its Board of Directors, alongside the appointment of new board leadership to guide the organization’s next phase of growth.
Hopkins rejoins the RIHub Board at a pivotal time as the organization continues to expand its impact across Rhode Island and Southeastern New England. She was an original member of the RIHub Board of Directors during her tenure at MassChallenge, where she played a key role in supporting early-stage startups and strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem. She now serves as Executive Director of the New England Venture Capital Association (NEVCA).
“We are thrilled to welcome Hope back to the RIHub Board,” said Annette Tonti, Managing Director of RIHub. “Hope has been part of RIHub’s journey from the early days, and her deep understanding of the startup ecosystem—combined with her leadership across New England’s venture community—will be invaluable as we continue to scale our programs and connect Rhode Island founders to capital and opportunity.”
In addition to Hopkins’ return, RIHub is pleased to announce the election of the following Board Officers: David Altounian, Associate Professor, Entrepreneurship, Salve Regina University and Co-Chair of the Board, Pete Rumsey, Vice President, Economic Development, Innovation & Entrepreneurship URI and Co-Chair of the Board, Stephen Piper, CEO, Juice and Treasurer, Christian Cowan, CEO Polaris and Secretary, Annette Tonti, President. Other board members include: Lisa Carnevale, Vice President Innovation Initiatives RI Commerce, Arnell Milhouse, CEO Yconic, Marty Schultz, Interim Executive Director, Brown Technology Innovations.
This leadership team brings deep experience across venture capital, entrepreneurship, university innovation and ecosystem building—further strengthening RIHub’s ability to support high-growth startups and drive economic development across the region.
“I’m excited to rejoin the RIHub Board at such an important moment for innovation in Rhode Island,” said Hopkins. “RIHub has become a cornerstone of the state’s startup ecosystem, and I look forward to contributing to its continued growth—helping more founders access the mentorship, capital, and networks they need to succeed.”
RIHub continues to play a central role in strengthening Rhode Island’s innovation economy, supporting hundreds of entrepreneurs each year through mentorship, programming, and connections to investors and industry leaders.
About RIHub
RIHub is Rhode Island’s Innovation Hub and a central driver of the state’s startup ecosystem. Through mentorship, programming, events, and strategic partnerships, RIHub supports high-growth startups across sectors including Ocean Tech, Life Sciences, AI, and more. RIHub connects founders to the resources they need to start, scale, and succeed—while strengthening the broader regional innovation economy.
Contact:
401-829-1051