Comcast continues to invest in small businesses with the Comcast RISE program. Announced at the April 2024 kick-off event at the Russell Innovation Center, now and through May 31, eligible businesses in Cobb, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Clayton and Fulton counties can apply for a grant package at https://www.comcastrise.com/. A total of 100 grants will be announced in August 2024.
About Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks
Derrick Hayes, founder and CEO of Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks started his business in 2014. From a 749-foot gas station with a broken grill and broken fryer, Derrick now has multiple Georgia locations with plans to franchise beyond the Peach State. Inspired by his father for whom his restaurant is named and crafted with family-inspired recipes, Hayes built a thriving business that is infused with love and community spirit. The Comcast RISE program awarded Derrick a technology makeover to bolster his business to meet the demands of a growing number of cheesesteak lovers.
Being Big in the Community
For Derrick, his personal mission is for every customer to leave his restaurant having a better day than when they walked in. This people-first motto applies to his employees as well. Derrick is proud that as a CEO he’s been able to change lives, seeing his employees grow both personally and professionally. “I can honestly say that my employees, they don’t look at Big Dave’s as a job, they look at it as a career and that’s the difference.” When asked how his business has made an impression on the city, Derrick responded, “Big Dave’s has impacted Atlanta in a huge way not just through the food but also the philanthropy side. I love that just as much as I love the business.” Derrick is committed to see that his personal success will extend to others by saying, “Now that I got the ball, I’m going to slam dunk it the right way so other people can have the chance to score.”
Elevating the Business with Comcast RISE
As with Comcast RISE, Derrick’s desire to see people succeed is something he values in the program, “I can tell they are doing it because they want to see people grow and that’s the amazing thing about the Comcast RISE program.” Plus, having grown up in Philly where the company is headquartered, he recognized Comcast and its commitment to innovation and community. When he applied for the grant, Derrick was specifically interested in the technology makeover provided by Comcast Business, not only to drive business but to ensure a positive customer experience.
“Our technology is better, the way we do business is better, and the opportunities coming now are better. [Comcast RISE] came right on time for me and helped me scale up my business.”
Derrick Hayes, Founder and CEO, Big Dave’s Cheesesteaks
About Comcast RISE
The comprehensive grant packages include business consultation services, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, creative production, media schedule, and a technology makeover. 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. The program was created to help businesses and their communities thrive with a focus on economic growth. To read more about former Comcast RISE recipients, check out Brown Toy Box.
More information on eligibility requirements and how to apply for the grant program is available at www.ComcastRISE.com. Apply today!
