Comcast RISE Profile: Punches n’ Bunches

#SmallBusinessMonth

How Comcast RISE Empowers Small Businesses

The Comcast RISE program helps support small businesses nationwide. On April 15, 2025, it was announced that Nashville was selected as one of five total Comcast RISE regions for the comprehensive grant program. Starting now through May 31, 2025, local entrepreneurs are invited to apply at www.comcastrise.com. A total of 100 metro Nashville grants will be awarded and announced in August 2025.

What is Comcast RISE?

Comcast RISE is supporting the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs committed to uplifting their local communities. Eligible small businesses receive comprehensive packages that include a technology makeover, creative production, a media schedule, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, and business consultation services.

Meet Tramaine at Punches and Bunches

A 2021 Comcast RISE recipient, Punches n’ Bunches Boxing Studio is the brainchild of Tramaine Crook, a former US National welterweight competitor. After retiring from an extensive career as a college athlete and competitive fighter, Tramaine decided to share his knowledge. After years of planning, Crook opened the doors to Punches n’ Bunches with the vision to create a space where people from different backgrounds could train and build a community. Punches n’ Bunches’ classes range from fitness boxing, art of sparring, youth boxing, women’s self-defense, yoga, and more. This ensures that whatever one’s goals are, from boxing competitively, building confidence or stress relief, the studio is a friendly and safe environment for everyone at all fitness levels.

Tramaine shared with us his experiences as a former Comcast RISE recipient.

What About the Grant Interested You?

Tramaine: My mentor at the time told me about Comcast RISE and the application process was easy so I figured it was worth a shot. To be honest, I sent in my application, forgot about it, and then I got an email telling me that we had actually won.

How Did Comcast RISE Positively Impact your Business?

Tramaine: We received laptops, tablets and a full year’s worth of Internet and telephone service.  We set up the tablets in different corners of our boxing ring for virtual classes. We had about 30-40 people attend virtual classes two or three times a week, which was a way to bring in revenue.

With the kids in our program, WiFi was a big deal. Previously we had a small WiFi setup, but it wasn’t enough to support more than two devices. With Comcast Business Internet, we were able to get our after-school program going. We have over 30 kids coming in at one time and they know it’s “books before boxing.” WiFi allows all the kids to do their homework before we tackle training.

The equipment we received also allowed us to streamline a lot for the business. We were able to get our website up to date so people could book online. To this day, we still use those laptops and iPads.

What Drives your Passion for your Business?

Tramaine: We pride ourselves on being change agents versus being a boxing gym and that fuels me. We’re more of an academy than just a fitness center.

With our growth, we were able to launch a youth program that’s been funded by the state of Tennessee which is unheard of. We hired staff and got volunteers in the area to help too. Now we have over 130 youth that come through our gym each week. We also travel to offsite locations and schools to share our love for boxing. Through the transformative power of non-contact boxing and mentorship, we strive to cultivate strong minds, healthy bodies, and compassionate hearts. My goal is to empower youth to counter-punch challenges, excel academically, and lead purposeful lives, ultimately becoming leaders and positive community contributors.

What Advice Would You Give Those Thinking of Applying for Comcast RISE?

Tramaine: I would say, just try! You never know! If you happen to be one of the businesses that does get the honor to be a recipient of the grant package, capitalize on it with full force. Comcast RISE can benefit you and your business so be open-minded and ready to take those steps forward and make the most of the opportunity.

Learn more about Punches n’ Bunches by visiting pnbboxing.com, FB: @PunchesnBunches, IG: @pnb_boxing and TT: @coachteecrook.

Click to read more about Comcast RISE recipients NEW Counseling and Ash Branding Co. 

To apply for the 2025 Comcast RISE grant in Nashville, please visit www.comcastrise.com.