PORTSMOUTH — The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation is seeking proposals from nonprofit organizations, chambers of commerce municipalities, merchant associations, downtown improvement districts, tourism regions, and arts/cultural institutions to receive grants under the “Take it Outside” initiative.

The statewide effort is designed to encourage and increase outdoor activities for all Rhode Islanders in an effort to reduce the transmission rate of COVID-19. Individual businesses are not eligible to submit a proposal but can work with eligible organizations to supply what they need.

Submissions for the first round were due Sept. 22, but there will be a second round on Oct 1. Both the town and the Portsmouth Business Association are considering submitting proposals for the second round, but need input from businesses for the types of things that may be of use to Portsmouth businesses to help “take it outside.”

Eligible expenses may include the cost affiliated with purchasing, obtaining, delivering, installing, or otherwise enabling the use of the following between Sept. 28 and Dec. 18: chairs, tables, heat lamps, tents, outdoor WiFi systems, masks, hand sanitizer, staffing, security, insurance costs related to specific outdoor activities, lighting, power sources, relevant signage, bike racks, and other costs affiliated with purchasing or obtaining good or services that may be necessary to increase outdoor opportunities.

Suggestions with approximate costs should be submitted to the PBA at PBAInfo@PortsmouthBiz.org or to Portsmouth’s director of business development, Rich Talipsky, at rtalipsky@PortsmouthRI.com or 401/643-0382) as soon as possible. Accurate cost estimates and other financial information will be required for the final submission.

Go to https://reopeningri.com/take-it-outside for more program information and to download a full copy of the RFP.

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