WORCESTER—Big ideas need a place to grow—and Worcester is making room. Turning a concept into reality takes more than just inspiration; it requires funding, resources, and the right environment to thrive. Now, a new innovation-business hub, under construction at 311 Main St., aims to make Worcester a go-to launching pad for the next wave of startups and groundbreaking ideas.
A new partnership between Auxilium, a Worcester-based Innovation Studio and Accelerator, and RIHub, Rhode Island’s leading entrepreneurship center, aims to strengthen New England’s startup ecosystem by expanding access to funding, mentorship, and investor networks.
According to a press release from Auxilium, the collaboration will connect entrepreneurs from Massachusetts and Rhode Island with more opportunities to scale their businesses, creating a stronger pipeline for startup success.
“We are excited to partner with RIHub and create a pathway for entrepreneurs looking to grow and scale their businesses,” said Zachary Dutton, executive director of Auxilium. “The talent emerging from Rhode Island’s universities and startup community is impressive, and we look forward to working with RIHub to help them succeed.”
Through shared networks and educational programs, the partnership addresses common challenges startups in Worcester and Providence face, such as limited access to capital, mentorship gaps, and disconnected ecosystems.
A new model for startup growth
Dutton explained to the Worcester Guardian that the partnership connects two entrepreneurial communities that, while strong, have historically operated separately.
“We are creating a stronger, more connected startup ecosystem that will give entrepreneurs a better shot at success,” Dutton said. “This partnership means more training, workshops, and networking opportunities, and brings together RIHub’s startup expertise with Auxilium’s investment capabilities.”
The collaboration also expands funding opportunities, with Auxilium investing directly in selected startups through its Accelerator and Innovation Studio programs, while RIHub offers connections to local funding sources and its Investor Summit in Newport.
How it works
For entrepreneurs unfamiliar with the accelerator model, Dutton described it as “giving startups more ways to learn, grow, and succeed.”
“Entrepreneurs who engage with either Auxilium or RIHub will now have access to resources from both organizations,” he said. “Whether it’s mentoring, workshops, investor connections, or funding, we’re combining strengths to give startups a better chance of success.”
Auxilium’s Accelerator Program, launching in June 2025, will provide startups with a three-month program and an initial $250,000 investment. Meanwhile, the Innovation Studio, opening in Fall 2025, will offer extended mentorship, workspaces, and additional staged funding up to $100,000.
Selection process & future goals
Startups hoping to join Auxilium’s programs must go through a multi-step selection process, including an application review, evaluation by an Innovation Committee, and interviews with industry experts. The goal is to identify businesses with high potential for growth and scalability.
“Our focus is on building a high-quality program that delivers real impact for startups,” Dutton said. “That means recruiting experienced mentors, engaging local companies, and ensuring startups have access to funding beyond the initial investment.”
As the June 2025 launch of the accelerator approaches, Dutton emphasized that building a strong network of mentors, investors, and corporate partners will be key to the program’s long-term success.
With this new partnership, Worcester and Providence could soon become a more interconnected and competitive startup hub, offering entrepreneurs in Central Massachusetts and Rhode Island the resources they need to thrive.
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