The Rhode Island Small Business Village is a pop-up marketplace at Providence Place mall, running through August 30 on Level 1 near the Apple store. It showcases over 40 Rhode Island-based businesses, including artisans, food producers, apparel brands, jewelers, and wellness entrepreneurs, offering shoppers a chance to explore local products in one convenient location. The initiative aims to boost local commerce by connecting consumers with homegrown brands in a high-traffic retail environment, especially during a busy summer featuring major events like World Cup activities. Organized by Skills for Rhode Island’s Future and supported by Centreville Bank, the Village provides valuable exposure for small businesses such as Kent Stetson Handbags, Tallula Jewelry, Occipital artwork, and Aura’s Chocolate Bar. Since its mid-June launch, the project has been praised for creating a dedicated space for Rhode Island startups. Meanwhile, the Mile of History Association has decorated Benefit Street with Betsy Ross banners to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, highlighting Providence’s historical role in the American Revolution.