Celebrating two decades of service and adaptability in Providence's parking industry.
Kenneth Zorabedian, founder of United Parking LLC, marks the 20th anniversary of his valet service in Providence. Amid pandemic challenges, he adapts by launching a food delivery service, DASAP, partnering with local restaurants and ensuring business continuity. Rhode Island’s entrepreneurial landscape remains resilient, showcasing innovation even during economic hardships.
Providence, Rhode Island – Kenneth Zorabedian, founder of United Parking LLC, is marking the 20th anniversary of his business, which started as a modest valet service for upscale restaurants in the Federal Hill neighborhood of Providence. At just 25 years old, Zorabedian launched his venture in 2005 with an initial investment of only $1,500. Over the years, he has expanded the business significantly by acquiring additional parking spaces, becoming a well-known name in the local parking industry.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic presented enormous challenges for Zorabedian and his valet service. As restaurants closed or limited their operations, the demand for valet services plummeted, making it increasingly unprofitable. In response to these unprecedented obstacles, Zorabedian showed remarkable adaptability by launching a new local food delivery service named DASAP, which stands for “Delivery As Soon As Possible.” This innovative pivot not only aimed to sustain his business during tough economic times but also addressed the growing demand for food delivery in the local market.
DASAP has quickly developed partnerships with nearly 40 restaurants, allowing customers to receive meals from their favorite dining spots without leaving their homes. Zorabedian is also exploring options to expand the delivery service to include non-food items, further diversifying his offerings. His entrepreneurial spirit was bolstered by taking advantage of various government aids during the pandemic, including the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and an adoption grant from Rhode Island Commerce, which helped maintain his operations and support his employees during challenging economic conditions.
The broader business landscape in Rhode Island has shown resilience despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. A decrease in bankruptcies has been noted, attributed to government assistance and the tenacity of local entrepreneurs who have demonstrated significant ingenuity. In 2020, there was a notable increase in new startups, with 10,549 businesses registered in Rhode Island. This growth reflects a national trend, with various sectors adapting to the changing economy.
Examples of innovation abound among Rhode Island business owners during the pandemic. One such transformation occurred at Blaze Smith Hill, which skillfully transitioned from a coffee shop to a full-service restaurant, showcasing how local businesses are learning to evolve their services in response to market needs. Other startups include SaniTides, a company that specializes in producing all-natural hand sanitizer and antibacterial products, and DogFrens, an app designed to connect dog owners for social outings and playdates.
The startup ecosystem in Rhode Island remains energetic and full of potential, even though it faces ongoing challenges. The commitment among entrepreneurs to innovate and seek new opportunities is driving the state’s economic resilience. This spirit of entrepreneurship is further supported by community colleges and local universities, many of which have been instrumental in fostering new business ideas among students and aspiring business owners.
Lastly, in a notable development within academia, Crystal Williams has been appointed as the 18th president of Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), making history as the first Black president of the institution. Williams brings over 20 years of experience in higher education and a dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within academic settings, which aligns with the current climate of transformation and growth in various sectors across the state.
As Kenneth Zorabedian celebrates two decades of success with United Parking LLC, his journey exemplifies the resilience and creativity that characterize many business owners in Rhode Island during these challenging times. The state’s entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, driven by a commitment to innovation and a willingness to adapt amidst changing circumstances.
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