Awards part of Comcast RISE, national program to support Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC)-owned small businesses, including Hispanic- and Asian American-owned
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (November 16, 2021) – Comcast announced today it has awarded technology and creative resources to four BIPOC-owned small businesses in Memphis. These recipients are part of the more than 8,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who were selected as Comcast RISE awardees in the program’s third phase. RISE stands for “Representation, Investment, Strength and Empowerment.”
Technology Makeover recipients will receive computer equipment and internet, voice and cybersecurity services for up to 12 months. Creative Production recipients will receive a turnkey production of a 30-second TV commercial, plus a media strategy consultation and 90-day media placement schedule.
TNCO Construction Inc., a woman- and minority-owned commercial construction company whose specialty is attention to detail while offering a fair price, will receive a Technology Makeover.
“As a Female Minority Small Business Owner, it was such an encouragement for our company to receive the Comcast RISE Makeover,” said Sumiya Nichols, TNCO Construction Company. “It is so important to be able to communicate and work efficiently in business today, however, the necessary funds needed to purchase updated equipment is not always available when you are a young company. The equipment we received is helping us to do just that. We are so appreciative.”
Mid-South Dynamic Services will receive Creative Production support. This business specializes in grip- and non-slip treatments and disinfecting and sanitizing of residential and commercial buildings.
Dream Life will also receive a Technology Makeover. This lifestyle brand promotes positivity and inspires young entrepreneurs to chase their dreams by providing printing and branding services at affordable prices.
“My staff has become more efficient in their positions, can train remotely and continues to master their skills thanks to having their own electronic devices as part of the award,” Dream Life Owner and CEO Jazmine Tricoche.
“It’s an honor to celebrate these outstanding Tennessee companies with technology and creative support,” said Jason Gumbs, Regional Senior Vice President at Comcast. “We are thrilled to help create a sustainable impact and meaningful support to the businesses who shape the Memphis community. Comcast RISE brings together two of the company’s brands —Comcast Business and Effectv, to empower business owners with the expertise and resources needed to navigate the economic effects of the pandemic.
Comcast RISE is part of a larger $100 million Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative that Comcast launched in 2020. In June, Comcast NBCUniversal announced the development of a comprehensive, multiyear plan to allocate $75 million in cash and $25 million in media over the next three years to fight injustice and inequality against any race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation or ability.
The current wave of applications for Comcast RISE Marketing & Technology Services opened on October 17, 2021 and will close on January 15, 2022.
In 2020, seven Memphis winners were selected to receive support in the program’s first round. Those businesses are:
- Downtown Candle Company
- Makeda’s Cookies
- Alpha & Omega Nutrition Program Incorporated
- KLHopkins Accounting Services
- Damas Little Folks Childcare
- Ten U In
- Nickson General Contractors, Inc.
