An industry group is being launched to promote textile manufacturing in Rhode Island.

Members of the state''s congressional delegation plan to meet Monday with industry leaders at the historic Slater Mill in Pawtucket to officially kick off the Rhode Island Textile Innovation Network.

Democratic U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and the University of Rhode Island Business Engagement Center first came up with the idea for the network in 2016. They wanted to foster collaboration among textile industry leaders, academia and government.

The new network was then organized and has since received funding. It will work to grow the industry and create jobs. Members hope to provide opportunities for people in the industry to collaborate, network and educate the public about the modern textile industry.