Murdock Webbing Advances Domestic Manufacturing through Innovation and SBA Support
A Rhode Island-based textile manufacturer is strengthening operations, workforce development, and government contracting with support from SBA resources
Murdock Webbing, a Rhode Island-based textile manufacturer, has been producing narrow fabrics since 1936 and is approaching its 90th year in business. Now led by President Greg Pilgrim, the company has remained family-owned since 1954 and continues to evolve while maintaining its domestic manufacturing base.
Start with a mission
Murdock Webbing has been shaped by generations of family ownership, beginning when the D'Angel family acquired the business from founder Frederick Murdoch in 1954. What started as a small operation has grown into a long-standing manufacturer with deep roots in Rhode Island and a focus on building something that lasts.
Pilgrim's path into the business came later. After building a career in landscape design and living on the West Coast, he and his wife made the decision to return to New England to be closer to family. He joined the business in a sales role and, over time, worked his way through operations before stepping into leadership.
That progression gave Pilgrim a full view of the business, from customer relationships to production, and continues to shape how he approaches decisions today.
Support from SBA and resource partners
As government contracting has remained a significant part of the business, Pilgrim has worked closely with SBA resource partners to work through changing requirements and new opportunities.
Most recently, Murdock Webbing partnered with APEX Accelerator to review and interpret complex contract language on a major bid.
"They were fantastic at cutting through some of the ambiguity. That kind of support makes a big difference." - Greg Pilgrim
That support helped the company move forward with confidence and ultimately secure the contract.
In addition to contracting support, Murdock Webbing has utilized grant funding to invest in facility and cybersecurity upgrades required for modern government contracts.
Results of SBA support
These investments have allowed Murdock Webbing to continue competing in government contracting while adapting to new compliance requirements. Government work remains a core part of the business. With improved infrastructure and support in navigating federal requirements, Murdock Webbing is better prepared to take on new opportunities within government supply chains.
What drives the business
A key factor in Murdock Webbing's longevity has been its focus on innovation and product development. Rather than competing on cost, Pilgrim has focused on building a business that can move quickly, solve problems, and deliver value to customers.
"I love taking an existing product and changing it to make it perform better for our customers." - Greg Pilgrim
That mindset also shaped a critical decision earlier in his tenure: whether to move manufacturing overseas. While lower costs made it a tempting option, Pilgrim chose to keep operations domestic, prioritizing the ability to work directly with the production floor and respond to challenges in real time.
That approach has helped Murdock Webbing remain competitive while continuing to manufacture in the United States.
Final thoughts
As Murdock Webbing approaches its 90th year, Pilgrim remains focused on continuing to evolve while staying grounded in the company's core strengths.
From investing in new product development to meeting the needs of its customers, the business continues to grow while maintaining its commitment to domestic manufacturing.
"Years ago, I outlawed the phrase 'that's the way we've always done it.’” - Greg Pilgrim
That approach, combined with a focus on innovation, has allowed Murdock Webbing to remain competitive while continuing to build on a legacy that spans generations.
For more information on SBA grant programs and resources, visit www.sba.gov