Innovation Providence Implementation Council launches marketplace.usgbcri.org

The Innovation Providence Implementation Council (IPIC) has launched the Virtual Green Marketplace - an online platform where you can learn about green projects in R.I., search for environmentally responsible service providers, or browse online product and systems databases. The web site http://marketplace.usgbcri.org was created by the R.I. Chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council using first round IPIC grant funding. "This web site will become a hub for current green economy opportunities, bring together invested stakeholders and help the community at large understand the work that is being done in this exciting field," said Bill Hatfield, market president of Bank of America-R.I. and co-chair of the IPIC. "The IPIC is proud to have supported its creation." The primary mission of the Rhode Island Green Building Council is to transform the way buildings are designed, built, and operated in the state of Rhode Island in order to promote environmentally friendly, healthy, aesthetically pleasing and durable communities that protect the state's cultural heritage and natural environment and improve the quality of life. The Marketplace web site is one way the Council spreads the word and makes it easier for the aspiring green homeowner or commercial building owner to find green solutions. "There is still a great deal of confusion in the marketplace," said Connie McGreavy, founder of the organization and brainchild behind the innovative website. "We hope the Virtual Green Marketplace becomes the region's 'one stop shop' for information that people can understand and rely on. We look forward to Phase 2 which will add interoperability between the user and service providers as well as an e-commerce application." The Innovation Providence Implementation Council is charged with measuring progress and driving strategy surrounding the development of Rhode Island's Knowledge Economy. In its leadership role, the group sets the action agenda for moving the Knowledge Economy forward; distributes grant funds through a formal process; and works to help jumpstart projects identified as promising economic opportunities that will expand key industries and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit of the city and state. The group is chaired by Connie Howes, president and CEO of Woman & Infants Hospital. Vice chairs are Bill Hatfield, market president of Bank of America-Rhode Island and Richard Spies, executive vice president at Brown University. The Council is comprised of leaders of colleges, universities, hospitals, state and city government and businesses.