URI Professor Joins Task Force to Explore Employee-Owned Businesses

September 22, 2025 - 23:42

KINGSTON, R.I. – Sept. 22, 2025 – In a significant development for the business community, a professor from the University of Rhode Island has been appointed to a task force dedicated to examining employee-owned businesses. This initiative aims to enhance the understanding and viability of such enterprises, which are increasingly recognized for their potential to foster economic stability and community engagement.

Data from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce reveals that over 96% of American enterprises fall under the category of small businesses. These small and family-owned businesses are often hailed as the backbone of the U.S. economy, playing a crucial role in shaping local communities and driving economic growth. The task force will focus on identifying best practices, challenges, and opportunities within the realm of employee ownership, which allows workers to have a stake in the companies they work for.

As more businesses explore this model, the task force's findings could lead to innovative strategies that promote employee engagement and enhance economic resilience across various sectors. This appointment underscores the growing recognition of employee ownership as a viable path for sustainable business practices.