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Comcast RISE Program Offers $3 Million Grant to Small Businesses in Grand Rapids and Muskegon

Local entrepreneurs benefit from the Comcast RISE program aimed at uplifting small businesses.

News Summary

Small businesses in Grand Rapids and Muskegon can apply for a grant package through the Comcast RISE program, which has allocated $3 million to support their growth. The initiative aims to provide essential resources such as technology makeovers, educational resources, and a monetary grant of $5,000 to eligible enterprises. The program intends to address rising operational costs faced by local businesses and uplift the entrepreneurial community in West Michigan.

Grand Rapids and Muskegon Small Businesses Offered $3 Million Grant Through Comcast RISE Program

Small businesses in Grand Rapids, Muskegon, and nearby areas have the opportunity to apply for a grant package through the Comcast RISE program, aimed at providing essential support for their growth and sustainability. Comcast RISE has earmarked a total of $3 million to assist eligible small businesses in West Michigan, offering resources that can help them navigate the challenges posed by rising operational costs and other barriers.

Grant Package Details

The Comcast RISE initiative will provide comprehensive support packages to 100 small businesses. These packages will include:

A technology makeover
Creative production services
A media schedule
Educational resources
A monetary grant of $5,000
Business consultation services

This program is particularly timely, as 74% of small businesses in Muskegon cited rising costs as a significant limitation to their operations, while 53% of businesses in Kent County have reported similar concerns. The initiative is designed to address these financial obstacles and support entrepreneurs in thriving within their respective markets.

Impact on Local Entrepreneurs

The initiative aims to uplift the local business community significantly. Sonya Callahan, a Regional Vice President at Comcast Business, likened the program’s impact to “injecting rocket fuel into the small business community.” This analogy emphasizes the robust assistance that Comcast RISE aims to provide to local entrepreneurs.

Accomplishments and Previous Winners

Grand Rapids and Muskegon have previously benefitted from Comcast RISE, with former winners including Servicios De Esperanza in Muskegon, A Solution B in Wyoming, and Delight in Designs in Grand Rapids. The program has previously enabled businesses, like Services of Hope, to expand their service offerings—particularly in telehealth—across the state of Michigan. Past winners reported significant growth in customer reach and overall business performance, demonstrating the potential impact of the program’s resources.

Program Background and Future Prospects

Comcast RISE is a part of Project UP, which is focused on fostering digital opportunity and building a brighter future for the business community. This program has supported over 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide since its launch in 2020. The commitment to providing resources specifically for small businesses, which are the backbone of the economy, is a strategic move that strengthens local economies.

Application Process

Applications for the grants are currently open and will remain so until May 31, 2025. Winners of the grants will be announced in August 2025, allowing ample time for interested businesses to prepare their applications. Eligible businesses are encouraged to review the requirements and apply through the official Comcast RISE website.

Conclusion

The Comcast RISE program represents an essential opportunity for small business owners in Grand Rapids and Muskegon to access valuable resources that can foster growth and sustainability in today’s challenging economic climate. As more entrepreneurs in the region take advantage of this program, the local business landscape has the potential to flourish and thrive in the years to come.

For more information about eligibility and application guidelines, interested parties can visit the Comcast RISE website.