Comcast announced that 100 small businesses in Southern Colorado will receive comprehensive grant packages as part of its RISE program. These packages include business consultation services, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, creative production, media scheduling, and technology makeovers. The initiative aims to support the growth of small businesses while promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and community investment.
This announcement is part of a broader initiative that also includes Atlanta, Houston, Jacksonville, and Richmond, VA, with a total of 500 grants to be awarded in September 2024. Sample recipients from Southern Colorado include RAD Hostel in Colorado Springs, ColorSplashPaintball, and The Walter Brewing Company in Pueblo.
Erin Welch, owner of RAD Hostel, expressed her excitement about receiving the grant, highlighting the potential for increased marketing and occupancy. Similarly, Rique Lucero, owner of ColorSplashPaintball, noted that the grant would provide a fresh start for his business, which was significantly impacted by the pandemic.
J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast’s Mountain West Region, emphasized the company's commitment to empowering small businesses through innovative and impactful resources. Comcast RISE, launched in November 2020, initially aimed to help businesses hardest hit by COVID-19. The program has since evolved to focus on economic growth and community thriving.
Grant packages include coaching sessions for business growth, 12-month access to online entrepreneurship courses, a $5,000 monetary grant, professionally produced TV commercials, media strategy consultations, and a technology makeover with computer equipment and various services.
Additionally, small business owners can access the Comcast RISE destination on X1 for aggregated business news, tips, and insights. This initiative is part of Project UP, Comcast's $1 billion commitment to advancing digital equity and economic mobility.
More information is available at www.ComcastRISE.com.
