Comcast Awards Technology Makeovers to Two Jackson Minority-Owned Small Businesses

Award part of Comcast RISE, national program to support Black, Indigenous and People of Color-owned small businesses, including Hispanic- and Asian American-owned

(Jackson, MS): December 9, 2021 – Comcast announced today it has awarded technology makeovers to Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC)-owned small businesses Gateway Behavioral Health Services and Herbal Blessings in Jackson. The local recipients are among nearly 8,000 entrepreneurs nationwide selected as Comcast RISE awardees in the program’s third phase. RISE stands for “Representation, Investment, Strength and Empowerment.”

Gateway Behavioral Health Services specializes in outpatient treatment for those with behavioral and emotional impairments. Herbal Blessings facilitates access to safe and effective preventive healthcare information and non-pharmaceutical options to improve quality of life.

“It is a pleasure to honor two Jackson small businesses who have such critical missions with RISE awards,” said Jason Gumbs, Regional Senior Vice President at Comcast. “We hope the Technology Makeovers provide them with the support needed to more efficiently serve their customers and communities.”

Comcast RISE brings together two of the company’s brands —Comcast Business and Effectv, both with expertise in the small business space — to empower business owners with the expertise and resources needed to navigate the economic effects of the pandemic.

As part of the Technology Makeover, the two companies will receive computer equipment and internet, voice, and cybersecurity services for up to 12 months. Taxes and other fees may still apply for tech makeover services.

Comcast RISE is part of a larger $100 million Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiative that Comcast launched last summer. 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.