It is no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic has left small businesses struggling to get back on their feet.

This is why Comcast recently announced that they will be providing up to $5 million in grants for small businesses, including restaurants, clothing stores, and bodegas.

From June 1 through June 14, diverse and women-owned businesses in Philadelphia, Detroit, Atlanta, and other select cities can apply for $10,000 grants as part of the Comcast RISE Investment Fund initiative. 

Applications are now available for small business owners who need a boost in order to get back on their feet from the grueling aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“While we know that no single organization can solve historic and systemic inequities overnight, we are committed to taking tangible actions that can drive long-term impact and change,” Teresa Ward-Maupin, Senior Vice President of Digital and Customer Experience for Comcast Business, said in a statement.

A total of around 500 grants will be announced and awarded to those who qualify in July 2022.

“Comcast RISE and the Comcast RISE Investment Fund offer the opportunity for small businesses owned by people of color and women to help grow their businesses, create jobs, and play a vital role in supporting our communities. This new round of Comcast RISE grants will provide more entrepreneurs with the resources and tools they need to scale their businesses and thrive for years to come,” said Ward-Maupin.

The Comcast RISE Investment Fund was launched in October 2020 as a way to give back to struggling businesses. Last year, the initiative provided $1 million in grants for African American-owned businesses in Philadelphia.

“The effects of the pandemic continue to create challenges for our small businesses,” Philadelphia City Councilmember Cherelle L. Parker said to NBC10.

Over 8,000 Comcast RISE recipients have been announced, and the program will have provided grants supporting 13,000 small businesses by the end of this year.

“This second infusion of investment grants, coupled with the hundreds of marketing and technology packages awarded in our city and the additional training and support provided through RISE, will help these businesses as they recover and rebuild to emerge from this crisis stronger than ever,” said Councilmember Parker.

The grants will go towards revamping their technology, security, training services, and marketing strategies.

For more information on the initiative, visit their website.