Comcast RISE Program Empowers Southern Colorado Small Businesses with $500,000 in Grants and Services

Comcast has made a significant impact on small businesses in Southern Colorado through its RISE program, awarding $500,000 in grants and services to 100 local enterprises. This initiative, focusing on Representation, Investment, Strength, and Empowerment, provides a comprehensive support system including financial aid, technology upgrades, marketing assistance, and educational resources. The selection of Southern Colorado as one of only five communities nationwide for the 2024 Comcast RISE program underscores the region's pivotal role in the company's broader efforts to stimulate economic development and digital equity.

The celebration of this investment took place during Comcast RISE Day, an event that not only recognized the grant recipients but also facilitated networking and learning opportunities. Held at the United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum, the gathering brought together business owners, local officials, and Comcast leaders, showcasing the community's collective effort towards economic resilience and growth. J.D. Keller, Regional Senior Vice President of Comcast Mountain West Region, reiterated the company's dedication to empowering small businesses, which are essential to the vitality of local communities.

Recipients of the Comcast RISE grants, such as Erin Welch of RAD Hostel and Rique Lucero of ColorSplashPaintball, shared their optimism about the program's potential to transform their businesses. From enhancing guest experiences to enabling business expansion, the grants are poised to make a tangible difference. The event also featured a marketplace connecting businesses with local resources and insights into leveraging artificial intelligence for business growth, further enriching the support ecosystem.

As part of Project UP, Comcast's $1 billion commitment to advancing digital equity, the RISE program exemplifies a holistic approach to supporting small businesses. By addressing not just immediate financial needs but also long-term technological and educational requirements, Comcast RISE aims to foster sustainable economic growth in Southern Colorado. In an era where small businesses face unprecedented challenges, initiatives like Comcast RISE are critical in ensuring their resilience and success, ultimately benefiting the broader community and economy.