AUDIO STORY: Comcast Partners with the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce to Provide Virtual Educational Programing for Small Businesses

Last month, Comcast and the Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce (OAACC) hosted the first of four virtual events that aim to inform and create awareness of resources for small businesses, particularly BIPOC-owned businesses that have been hit the hardest during the pandemic.  

The first event consisted of a panel of experts that highlighted the RISE program. RISE is Comcast’s new program that supports BIPOC-owned small businesses through four pillars of services: marketing consultations, media, creative production and technology makeovers.  

The panel was moderated by Cathy Adams President and CEO of the OAACC and Ken Maxey, Government Affairs Director for Comcast and featured Regan Yeldell, Executive Director Comcast RISE; Kayvon Mortazavi, Director SMB Sales, Comcast Business and James Lavallee, VP of Marketing, EffecTV. Rounding out the lineup of participants was RISE recipient Judi Townsend. Judi is well-known in the Oakland community for being the owner of Mannequin Madness, a store that sells mannequins and offers photo sets for people to use. Judi was awarded media services showcasing her business in a new commercial. 

Are you a BIPOC business owner who could use professional, customized help with marketing and operational strategies during this challenging time? Apply for the program today at ComcastRise.com/apply.  The deadline to apply to for the third round is May 7, 2021.  

Listen to the discussion between OAACC and Comcast: