Comcast RISE Program Awards Comprehensive Grant Packages to 100 Southern Colorado Small Businesses

Comcast has revealed the names of 100 small businesses in Southern Colorado that will receive substantial support through its RISE program. The initiative, which stands for Representation, Investment, Strength, and Empowerment, is set to provide these businesses with a comprehensive package including business consultation services, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, creative production assistance, media scheduling, and a technology upgrade.

The RISE program, initially launched in November 2020 to aid small businesses struggling due to the COVID-19 pandemic, has evolved to focus on fostering economic growth and community development. This round of grants is part of a larger distribution across five regions, including Atlanta, Houston, Jacksonville, Richmond, VA, and Southern Colorado, with a total of 500 grants being awarded.

Among the Southern Colorado recipients are RAD Hostel in Colorado Springs, ColorSplashPaintball in Pueblo, and The Walter Brewing Company, also in Pueblo. These businesses represent the diverse economic landscape of the region and the program's commitment to supporting various sectors.

Erin Welch, owner of RAD Hostel, expressed enthusiasm about the grant, stating that it will help them more effectively market their Colorado experience to potential guests. Similarly, Rique Lucero of ColorSplashPaintball sees the grant as an opportunity for a fresh start after facing pandemic-related setbacks.

J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast's Mountain West Region, emphasized the company's commitment to empowering small businesses, stating that the RISE program will provide innovative and impactful resources to make a lasting difference in Southern Colorado.

The grant packages are comprehensive, offering multiple facets of support. Recipients will receive coaching sessions that include business assessments and growth recommendations. They will also gain access to 12 months of online entrepreneurship courses and learning modules. The $5,000 monetary grant is complemented by creative production services, including a professionally produced 30-second TV commercial and a 180-day linear media schedule.

Additionally, businesses will benefit from a technology makeover, receiving computer equipment and internet, voice, and cybersecurity services for a full year. This holistic approach aims to address various aspects of business operations and growth.

The Comcast RISE program is part of Project UP, Comcast's broader $1 billion commitment to advance digital equity. This initiative seeks to connect people to the internet, promote economic mobility, and create opportunities for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and creators.

Small business owners interested in learning more about the program can visit www.ComcastRISE.com for additional information. Comcast has also made resources available through its X1 platform, where customers can access aggregated small business news, tips, and insights by saying "Comcast RISE" into their voice remote.

As the program continues to evolve, it represents a significant investment in local economies and underscores the importance of supporting small businesses as drivers of community growth and innovation. The impact of these grants is expected to ripple through Southern Colorado, potentially inspiring similar initiatives in other regions and industries.