State tourism officials plan to spend nearly $1 million to promote Rhode Island on the HISTORY Channel through next July as the network commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.
The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation has partnered with the HISTORY Channel to air commercials promoting the first state to declare independence from Great Britain as part of the networks’ “History Honors 250” campaign. The deal is the network’s first with any state, according to the corporation’s April 25 announcement.
“You can’t tell the story of America without telling the story of Rhode Island,” Gov. Dan McKee said in a statement. “Showcasing Rhode Island’s rich HISTORY through this partnership with the HISTORY Channel not only honors our state’s heritage — it drives tourism and strengthens our local economy.”
“History Honors 250” will share Rhode Island’s role in American HISTORY through specially produced segments to air on the cable network, along with ads during select prime-time shows.
But the Commerce Corporation is keeping hush on what historic moments will be featured in the $965,000 campaign. Spokesperson Matt Touchette said ads were still being developed by a third-party company as of Tuesday afternoon. He declined to name the third party company, saying the terms of the contract are confidential.
“When we’re ready to release more details, I’ll be sure to let you know,” Touchette said in an email.
Funding for the campaign comes from a $10.6 million U.S. Economic Development Administration awarded to the state in federal fiscal 2021, Touchette said.
Meanwhile, in response to an inquiry from Rhode Island Current, McKee’s office offered via email: “The Governor is excited to see the rich history of Rhode Island showcased nationally—including the legacy of Roger Williams and the Burning of the Gaspee.”
Rhode Island’s partnership with the HISTORY Channel will include themed editorial articles and video content posted online, as well as social media engagement through branded posts and influencer collaborations, Touchette said.
The Rhode Island Commerce Corporation will hold a sweepstakes, which the HISTORY Channel will promote on social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook along with an interactive trivia unit to highlight the state’s historic milestones, cultural contributions, and notable figures.
The ad campaign is scheduled to kick off May 22 and run through July 5, 2026.
“Rhode Island holds a pivotal role in the rich tapestry of our nation’s HISTORY, and we are excited to craft engaging content that not only resonates with audiences today but also inspires future generations,” Niki Mandell, vice president of media solutions at A+E Global Media, HISTORY Channel’s parent company, said in a statement.
Updated to include the source of the funding for the campaign.
This story was originally posted by the Rhode Island Current.
