Honorary Co-Chair

Cranston native Ed Brady is a social entrepreneur, creator, producer, and community leader dedicated to building community through business, arts, entertainment, and service. A graduate of Cranston High School West and Bryant University, where he studied business, communication, and film, Ed began his career in Hollywood working behind the scenes on production sets while also hosting red carpet events. He now proudly lives back in Cranston with his wife Taylor and their son Maverick.

Ed is the co-founder of The Thirsty Beaver Pub & Grub, a locally grown hospitality group with vibrant locations in Cranston, Smithfield, and North Kingstown, they are currently celebrating their 13th year since creation. He is also part of the founding family behind Restaurent.com and co-founder of both the RI Night Market and the Garden City Farmers Market.

Over the past fifteen years, Ed has helped raise millions of dollars for nonprofits, local initiatives, and community driven ventures throughout Rhode Island. Through his grassroots nonprofit, Cranston Cares, he has helped adopt and revitalize dozens of local parks and public spaces while leading initiatives rooted in service, compassion, and human connection. In collaboration with the Rhode Island Dream Center, Ed has also helped support and feed individuals and families facing hardship across the region. Ed also currently serves on the board of Comprehensive Community Action Program.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ed served as an advocate for Rhode Island’s small business community while serving as Vice President of the Cranston City Council. In 2022, he went “all in” to help save and protect Park Theatre while also being a major supporter in the efforts to rehabilitate the Cranston West Alumni Theatre. As the Park Theatre now celebrates its 100 year anniversary, Ed continues working to reimagine the historic venue as a hub for arts, culture, education, and entertainment.

In the entertainment industry, Ed helped bring the production of Good Burger 2 to Rhode Island alongside Kenan Thompson, Nickelodeon, Paramount, and the Rhode Island Film & TV Office. He also worked with Verdi Productions as an associate producer on Acting Coach Nightmare and The Roaring Game, both filmed in his hometown.

Ed is also the co-creator of The Search, a community driven artist showcase and creative platform designed to give emerging talent an opportunity to be seen, heard, and celebrated through live performances, mentorship, and collaboration. More than a showcase, The Search is rooted in building community, creating opportunity, and inspiring the next generation of artists and leaders throughout Rhode Island and beyond.