Applications Open Now: Comcast RISE to Award 100 Small Businesses in Baltimore City with Comprehensive Grant Packages

By Comcast RISE

Comcast is awarding 100 small businesses in Baltimore City with comprehensive grant packages through Comcast RISE. The grant packages include a $5,000 monetary grant, creative production of a 30-second TV commercial, a media schedule, a technology makeover, business consultation services, and educational resources.

Through June 30, eligible businesses in Baltimore City can apply for a grant package at www.ComcastRISE.com

Dasia Kabia, a former Comcast RISE recipient and founder of Ice Queens in Locust Point, recently shared that, “The support from Comcast RISE was a major boost during a challenging stretch for small businesses. The TV commercial we received from Comcast helped us build brand awareness, differentiate from competitors and reach new audiences across Baltimore.”

What is Comcast RISE?

Comcast RISE was created in November 2020 to help small businesses hardest hit by COVID-19, from bakeries and barber shops to childcare centers and cleaning services, by providing the grants needed to survive and recover.
During its initial two-year program, 13,000 small businesses were awarded with over $110 million in monetary, marketing, and technology grants.
Comcast RISE is committed to supporting the growth of all small businesses, while advancing the objectives of diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as community investment.

What is Included in Comcast RISE Grant Packages?

Comcast RISE recipients will receive a grant package inclusive of the following elements:

CONSULTATION – Assessment of business and tactical planning; business to business coaching; and mentorship to advise on how to grow business.
EDUCATION RESOURCES – Educational content and resources tailored to individual companies based on where they are in their business lifecycle.
MONETARY GRANT – $5,000 monetary grant to invest in growth and sustainability.
CREATIVE PRODUCTION & MEDIA – Turnkey production of a 30-second TV commercial, plus a media strategy consultation and 180-day media placement schedule.
TECHNOLOGY MAKEOVER – Computer equipment and Internet, Voice, and Cybersecurity services for 12 months. (Taxes and other fees may still apply for tech makeover services.)

Who is Eligible to Apply?

Eligibility requirements for the 2023 Comcast RISE program are as follows:

The owner of the small business must be at least 18 years of age or older, and must be the primary decision maker for, and is actively engaged in the day-to-day operation of the business.
No more than 100 full-time and part-time employees.
Established business operations for at least three calendar years.
Business has been revenue generating in the 12 months prior to the application window.
Registered to conduct business in one of following geographies:

Baltimore, MD (City of Baltimore)
Detroit, MI (Macomb County, Oakland County, Wayne County, Washtenaw County)
Memphis, TN (Shelby County)
Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia County)
Portland, OR (Multnomah County)

Business is independently owned-and-operated (e.g., not a franchise location).
Employees and independent contractors of Comcast Corporation, Ernst & Young, Hello Alice or Peirce College, and each of their respective parents, affiliates, and subsidiaries are not eligible to enter or win.

How Does Comcast RISE Align with Comcast’s Broader Initiatives to Bridge the Digital Divide?

Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, Comcast’s comprehensive $1 billion commitment to reach tens of millions of people, help advance digital equity, and build a future of unlimited possibilities.
Comcast is deeply committed to advancing digital equity in communities where it serves and is working with leaders across Baltimore to help people get connected and ensure they have access to the tools and skills needed to thrive in today’s digital economy. For example:
- Comcast is partnering with the Baltimore City Office of Information & Technology’s (BCIT) Office of Broadband & Digital Equity (BDE) to drive adoption of the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) through its Bmore Connected campaign.
- Comcast awarded $20,000 and 100 laptops to The Maryland Center for Veterans Education and Training (MCVET) to help veterans throughout Baltimore with broadband adoption and digital skills training.
- Comcast donated 1,000 laptops to the Baltimore Mayor’s Office of Employment Development’s Train Up program – which helps members of the Baltimore community develop digital skills and accelerate job opportunities.
- More than 30 Lift Zones have been launched by Comcast in Baltimore, which provide free, high-speed WiFi service to local community centers to promote digital learning – including at locations such as the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Baltimore and the SAFE Alternative Foundation for Education.