Comcast announced it will award $1 million to small businesses owned by people of color in Harris and Fort Bend counties in a Sept. 16 press release. This effort is part of the Comcast Rise Investment Fund program, a multiyear, multifaceted initiative launched in late 2020 to support small businesses owned by people of color.

Beginning Oct. 1, small businesses owned by people of color in Harris and Fort Bend counties can apply for 100 grants of $10,000 each. Applications must be received by Oct. 14.

As part of the company’s initial Comcast Rise Investment Fund program, the company previously awarded $1 million in April to 100 small businesses owned by people of color in Harris and Fort Bend counties.

Fort Bend County Judge KP George said having a funding source, such as the Comcast Rise Investment Fund grant, could provide much-needed assistance that is essential to the recovery of small businesses after the pandemic.

“Fort Bend County is the most diverse county in the nation, and we value our diverse business community. Our small business owners are the backbone of Fort Bend County; the impact they have on the community is invaluable,” George said.

Nayeem Amin, founder of Decca Consulting LLC in Sugar Land, said receiving the Comcast Rise Investment Fund Grant allowed the company to continue growing.

“Receiving the Comcast Rise Investment Fund Grant earlier this year was extremely beneficial––it allowed me to retain my staff during a difficult time, scale the company, enhance our marketing and sales outreach, and add an additional portal to broaden our ability to match companies with talent,” Amin said. “I encourage all small businesses of color to apply.”

To help drive outreach and awareness about Comcast Rise, and provide additional support, training and mentorship, Comcast has also awarded $50,000 in grants to local community partners––Houston Hispanic Chamber, Houston Black Chamber, Empresarios Latinos Foundation, Houston LGBT Chamber, Asian Chamber of Commerce, Greater Houston Women’s Foundation and East End Chamber of Commerce.