Comcast RISE Program Kicks Off with Community Leaders and Small Business Owners, Panel Discussion on Overcoming Small Business Obstacles in Today's Economic Climate

Rhea-AI Summary

Comcast has launched its RISE Program in West Michigan, bringing $3 million in grant packages including marketing and technology makeovers to support local small businesses. The initiative kicked off with a panel discussion featuring community leaders and business owners in Grand Rapids, addressing challenges in the current economic climate.

According to recent data, 74% of Muskegon small business owners and 53% of Kent County businesses cited rising costs as a major operational limitation. The program aims to provide eligible business owners with technology, marketing support, and resources to overcome these challenges.

The event featured prominent speakers including Grand Rapids Chamber President Rick Baker, Mayor David LaGrand, and Comcast Regional VP Craig D'Agostini, emphasizing public-private collaboration for supporting local entrepreneurship.

Positive

• Launch of $3 million grant package program for small businesses
• Strategic expansion into West Michigan market
• Strong public-private partnership development

Negative

• High operational costs affecting target market with 74% of Muskegon businesses impacted
• Challenging economic environment in key markets

Small businesses urged to tap technology, seize opportunities for support

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., April 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- West Michigan small business owners, community leaders and Comcast representatives gathered last night to discuss how businesses can overcome challenges in today's economic environment and take advantage of upcoming grant opportunities with Comcast RISE.

The panel kicked off with remarks from Grand Rapids Chamber President Rick Baker, Grand Rapids Mayor David LaGrand, and Comcast Regional Vice President of External Affairs Craig D'Agostini, highlighting the need for collaboration between the public and private sectors and the lasting impact Comcast RISE has on small businesses and the community.

"Together with our partners in Grand Rapids and Muskegon, we're bringing $3 million in grant packages including marketing and technology makeovers to the West Michigan small business community," said Comcast Regional Vice President of External Affairs, Craig D'Agostini. "We're dedicated to building on West Michigan's entrepreneurial growth, and Comcast RISE offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by uplifting eligible business owners in our community with direct support."

According to a recent report from the Grand Rapids Chamber, 74% of Muskegon small business owners cited rising costs as a cause for limiting their operations. In Kent County, 53% of businesses also cited rising costs as a major issue.

"The feedback is clear: It's never been more important to champion small businesses, and ensure they have the support they need to thrive," said Grand Rapids Chamber President Rick Baker. "Across the board – the Chamber, local elected leadership in Grand Rapids and Muskegon, state representatives, and Comcast – our collective goal is to elevate small businesses and create an opportunity to help solve some of the challenges small business owners are facing."

Panelists included Muskegon Chamber CEO Rachel Gorman, Grand Rapids Chamber Vice President of Economic Development Jenny Waugh, and Grand Rapids City Manager Mark Washington and former Comcast RISE recipient and Delight in Designs CEO Jessica Crosby. 

"To run a small business, you need grit, faith, and the ability to seize opportunities when they present themselves," said Delight in Designs CEO and former Comcast RISE recipient, Jessica Crosby. "With Comcast RISE, the opportunity is obvious. This is the chance for small business owners to get the technology, marketing support, and resources they need to succeed, now more than ever."

About Comcast RISE
Grand Rapids, Muskegon, and surrounding areas will be one of five regions where eligible small businesses will have the opportunity receive grants through Comcast RISE.

The program will provide 100 eligible small businesses with comprehensive packages that include:  

• TECHNOLOGY MAKEOVER – Computer equipment and Internet, Voice, and Cybersecurity services for 12 months. (Taxes and other fees may apply for tech makeover services.)
• CREATIVE PRODUCTION & MEDIA – Professionally produced 30-second TV commercial, plus a media strategy consultation, and a 180-day linear media schedule. (Taxes and other fees may apply for production and media services.)
• EDUCATION RESOURCES – 12-month access to online entrepreneurship courses, learning modules, and resources for small business owners.
• MONETARY GRANT – $5,000 monetary grant.
• COACHING SESSIONS – Business assessment and coaching that provides business owners with recommendations on how to help grow their businesses.

Beginning on May 1, and through May 31, small businesses in Grand Rapids and Muskegon can apply for a grant package at www.ComcastRISE.com. Winners will be announced in August.

Grand Rapids and Muskegon are home to a number of former Comcast RISE winners, including Servicios De Esperanza (Muskegon), A Solution B (Wyoming), and Delight in Designs (Grand Rapids).

Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, the company's comprehensive initiative to create digital opportunity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities.  

More information on eligibility requirements and details on how to apply are available at www.ComcastRISE.com.

About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information.

Media Contacts: 
Amy Pietzak 
248-318-8905 
amy_pietzak@comcast.com 

Samantha VanHoef
734-478-7118
samantha_vanhoef@comcast.com

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SOURCE Comcast

FAQ

What is the value of Comcast RISE grant packages being offered in West Michigan?

Comcast is offering $3 million in grant packages that include marketing and technology makeovers to West Michigan small businesses.

How many businesses in Muskegon are affected by rising costs according to the CMCSA RISE program data?

74% of Muskegon small business owners reported that rising costs are limiting their operations.

What specific support does the Comcast RISE program provide to small businesses?

The program provides technology, marketing support, and resources through grant packages aimed at helping small businesses succeed.

What percentage of Kent County businesses cited rising costs as a major issue in 2025?

53% of businesses in Kent County identified rising costs as a major issue.