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The PR Net Reports: How Emerging Technologies Are Enhancing Productivity for Marketing and Communications Teams

The PR Net

The inaugural PR Net Tech Demo Summit, held at the Andaz 5th Avenue on May 14th, set a new standard for innovation in communications and marketing, bringing together industry leaders to explore the transformative power of AI, data-driven storytelling, and next-generation technology platforms. The day began with an inspiring keynote from Aaron Kwittken, Founder and Global CEO of PRophet. In his session, “Empowering Your Team: How to Upskill for the Age of AI in Communications,” Kwittken urged communications professionals to future-proof their careers by embracing a new Human-led, AI-fed model of working. He introduced the concept of the “Communications Engineer” - a hybrid talent fluent in both data and storytelling - and challenged teams to replace instinct with insight. Kwittken highlighted the importance of not only leveraging generative AI, but also harnessing predictive and prescriptive AI to forecast media outcomes, test messaging, and track performance in real time. His actionable frameworks and call for industry-wide upskilling set a dynamic tone for the summit. Opal: Unifying Campaign Planning for Modern Marketers Erynn Baird, Head of Marketing at Opal, joined by Jessica Padula, VP of Marketing & Sustainability at Nespresso, demonstrated how the Opal platform is revolutionizing campaign planning for leading brands. In their session, “From Siloed to Synchronized: Connecting Teams for Campaign Planning,” Baird emphasized that marketing is inherently visual, experiential, and strategic—far beyond what traditional project management tools can support. Opal’s holistic platform provides high-level storytelling visibility, enabling teams to track progress, align on campaign direction, and unify previously siloed departments. The discussion addressed the critical need for a single source of truth in marketing, warning that a lack of alignment and visibility can erode credibility with decision-makers. Impact.com: Converging Affiliate, PR, and Influencer for Measurable Growth Courtney Vanpraag, Affiliate Coach at impact.com, explored the convergence of affiliate marketing, PR, and influencer partnerships in her session, “Where Affiliate, PR, and Influencer Converge for Growth.” Vanpraag demonstrated how affiliate marketing has become a foundational technology for omnichannel strategies, enabling brands to reach consumers across platforms like Reddit and Substack. She showcased impact.com’s capabilities for PR professionals, from securing placements in gift guides to tracking earned media performance and quantifying ROI. Her insights reinforced the importance of uniting teams and using data to clearly demonstrate PR’s value within broader marketing strategies. Edelman: The Rise of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) Mirza Germovic, SVP, Global AI & Product at Edelman, introduced attendees to Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), a cutting-edge approach to brand visibility in the era of AI-powered search. As consumers increasingly turn to AI platforms like ChatGPT and Copilot, GEO is emerging as a vital complement to traditional SEO. Germovic revealed Edelman’s new GEO solution, designed to help brands not only remain discoverable but also shape how they are represented in AI-generated results—a communications challenge as much as a technical one. OpenAI: ChatGPT’s Enterprise Revolution The summit concluded with a forward-looking session from Erica Vlahinos, GTM Director at OpenAI, who spotlighted the extraordinary impact of ChatGPT across the enterprise landscape. With 92% of Fortune 500 companies now leveraging OpenAI tools and 78% of their employees actively using ChatGPT, the platform has become a cornerstone of modern business productivity. Vlahinos shared compelling data: employees using ChatGPT complete 12% more tasks, finish work 25% faster, and deliver 40% higher-quality output. She also introduced attendees to Canvas, a new feature enabling live editing and real-time collaboration within ChatGPT. The platform’s chat capabilities now support deep research, content drafting, editing, social media post creation, and even image generation. Advanced analytics provide actionable recommendations for future marketing campaigns. As Vlahinos emphasized, “The companies winning today are those empowering their teams with AI to work smarter, not harder.” The Tech Demo Summit concluded with a shared vision: the future of communications is collaborative, data-driven, and powered by both human creativity and AI innovation. ABOUT THE PR NET: The PR Net is the premier global network for marketing and communications professionals. It is a modern take on the classic networking club and an "industry insider favorite” for executives looking for a central platform for industry intelligence and connections. Founded by industry veteran Lisa Smith in 2015, The PR Net consists of online content that reads like a magazine, member-only services, and highly sought-after digital and in-person member events. Contact Details The PR Net info@theprnet.com Company Website https://theprnet.com/

May 22, 2025 01:19 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Finding Ferdinand Shatters Sales Projections Following Debut Retail Launch at Credo Beauty

Finding Ferdinand

Finding Ferdinand, the sister-run brand on a mission to elevate your everyday routine with vegan, skin-loving formulas, is shattering sales projections just two months into the brand’s retail debut with Credo Beauty. In March 2025, the clean beauty brand launched online on credobeauty.com and rolled out to 14 Credo Beauty stores nationwide. Finding Ferdinand has far exceeded expectations since launching at Credo Beauty. Within just two months of the retail launch, the brand surpassed sales forecasts by an impressive triple digits. Additionally, Finding Ferdinand’s viral black lip balm was one of the top selling products during the Friends of Credo sale. Credo Beauty’s Senior Color Merchant, Meghan Lim, praised the brand as “Best in Class” for its exceptional launch performance at the retailer. “It’s been incredibly exciting to see Finding Ferdinand on shelves at Credo Beauty — a huge milestone for us. We’re absolutely ecstatic about the success so far, and this is just the beginning. Credo Beauty has been such a thoughtful and supportive partner, truly aligned with our values. Together, we’re keeping the momentum going by creating thoughtful in-store events and developing products and colors we know our customers will use and love,” said Nhu Le, Founder of Finding Ferdinand. Founded in 2015 by Nhu Le and now run alongside her sister, My Le, Finding Ferdinand celebrates its 10-year anniversary this year, marking a decade of innovation in color cosmetics. Nhu and My’s inspiration for the brand came from the incredible women in their family, especially their mother, a two-time cancer survivor whose strength continues to inspire the brand’s deep commitment to clean formulas. Finding Ferdinand products are 100% vegan and cruelty-free, offering proprietary cosmetic formulations that are clean and non-toxic. Finding Ferdinand takes to heart being a part of creating a better future for the world, and is committed to keeping the brand’s production sustainable - from working in small batches to prioritizing recyclable, recycled, or refillable components. For more information, follow the brand on Instagram @findingferdinand and TikTok @findingferdinand. ABOUT FINDING FERDINAND Effortless Beauty for Every Moment. Sister-run beauty brand Finding Ferdinand is here to elevate your everyday routine with vegan, skin-loving formulas that enhance—not hide—what makes you, you. Our clean, high-performance beauty essentials are designed for the way you live: easy to wear, impossible to mess up, and always a perfect fit. We hope you find something you love—and wear it your way, every day. ABOUT CREDO BEAUTY Credo Beauty offers today’s largest clean and sustainably minded beauty assortment in North America, across color, skincare, haircare and fragrance, partnering with over 135 leading brands, such as Westman Atelier, ILIA, OSEA, True Botanicals, Necessaire, and ROZ. Having built the most comprehensive guidelines, “The Credo Clean Standard™", customers can trust that they are purchasing the most effective, innovative products with safer ingredients with an emphasis on sustainable, natural and ethical materials. Trained makeup artists and estheticians (who are continually being educated by Credo Beauty and our brands) offer an exceptional experience both in-store and online. Visit one of the 15 brick-and-mortar store locations or www.credobeauty.com. MEDIA CONTACT Hallie Sawyer hsawyer@ogakidigital.com Contact Details Hallie Sawyer +1 818-388-7338 hsawyer@ogakidigital.com Company Website https://www.findingferdinand.com/

May 21, 2025 04:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Minneapolis Public Housing Authority and Comcast Announce Technology Partnership

Comcast Twin Cities

The Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) and Comcast announced they have partnered to provide a WiFi connection to Xfinity's next generation network in several of the Minneapolis Public Housing buildings in the city. This is Comcast’s second collaboration with a Minnesota-based housing agency to provide pre-installed, already on connectivity to the Xfinity network for their residents. Residential units will be equipped to connect to Xfinity’s superior WiFi network. With Xfinity’s network readily available, residents will not need to schedule a technician to set up services, wait for their modem to arrive or go to the Xfinity store to collect their equipment. To activate service, residents will only need to call or use the Xfinity App. Current and new residents moving into WiFi ready units can connect to the Internet within five minutes of collecting their keys, making it much easier to get all their devices up and running. "Connecting public housing to the internet is about more than technology, we’re providing opportunity,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “This partnership between the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority and Comcast will empower our residents with the tools they need to succeed. Together, we’re building a more connected and prosperous community." “Internet access is not a luxury, it is a core need in today’s world,” said Abdi Warsame, Executive Director/CEO of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority. “MPHA residents need fast, affordable, reliable internet to access healthcare and educational services, stay connected with friends and family, and keep up to date with what’s happening in their community. This partnership equips MPHA residents with everything they need to stay connected. I am thankful to Comcast for this major investment.” "Installing our Xfinity WiFi in public housing units is a transformative step toward ensuring digital opportunity for all residents,” said Kalyn Hove, regional senior vice president, Comcast Midwest. “This partnership with Minneapolis Public Housing Authority will provide essential connectivity, enabling access to educational resources, job opportunities, healthcare services and community engagement. We are committed to empowering residents to thrive in today's interconnected world." The Xfinity network will be installed in phases. Completion of the first three buildings just occurred, and plans are to connect additional buildings with WiFi ready by the end of 2026. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. About Minneapolis Public Housing Authority The mission of the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority is to promote and deliver quality, well-managed homes to a diverse low-income population and, with partners, contribute to the well-being of the individuals, families and community we serve. The agency achieves its mission through its three primary programs: Public Housing, Deeply Affordable Family Housing, and Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8). Across all three programs, MPHA assists with more than 26,000 people access quality, stable, and affordable housing every day. Contact Details Comcast Corporation Jill Hornbacher +1 651-425-1695 Jill_Hornbacher@comcast.com Company Website https://midwest.comcast.com/

May 20, 2025 01:00 PM Central Daylight Time

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UNFTR Launches ‘5 Non-Negotiables’ Campaign to Advance Bold Progressive Agenda

UNFTR

UNFTR ( UNFTR.com ), known for its incisive analysis of American politics and unwavering commitment to progressive values, today announced the launch of its “5 Non-Negotiables” campaign. This new action aims to galvanize support for a transformative progressive agenda, directly confronting what the podcast views as the Democratic establishment’s fundamental inability to deliver meaningful change. The 5 Non-Negotiables—Housing First, Civilian Labor Corps, Medicare for All, Election Integrity, and Climate Action—represent a progressive alternative to the compromised politics that have dominated the corporate-bought duopoly for decades. “The Democratic establishment has consistently been dismissive of progressive priorities in the name of pragmatism and moderation,” said Max, host of UNFTR. “And to what end? Americans are confronting a housing crisis, shareholder-run healthcare system, corporate capture of elections and legislative processes, and a largely forgotten climate emergency, among other critical issues. The 5 Non-Negotiables reject that approach entirely. This isn’t about moving the Overton window slightly—it’s about a bold progressive vision that refuses to compromise on the fundamentals of what makes a just society.” The campaign is the capstone of UNFTR’s podcast series exploring essential progressive priorities, now condensed into comprehensive policy proposals backed by research and historical context: Housing First: Recognizing stable shelter as a human right and economic necessity, with evidence showing 85–90% of participants remain housed after the first year and savings of $10,000–$20,000 per person annually. Civilian Labor Corps: Responding to AI disruption threatening millions of jobs and vagaries of our capitalist boom-and-bust cycles thrusting workers into precarity by creating guaranteed meaningful work focused on climate resilience, care work, and community development. Medicare for All: Transforming a healthcare system that consumes 18% of the American economy while delivering poorer outcomes than other developed nations. Election Integrity: Reclaiming democracy from special interests through constitutional reform that addresses the corrupting influence of money in politics. Climate Action: Establishing a Climate Trust that ensures those who have contributed most to the crisis help fund solutions, generating substantial resources for resilience and adaptation. “When the Democratic establishment tells progressives to moderate our demands or ‘not to let the perfect be the enemy of the good,’ they’re repeating the failed formula that has led to our current crises,” added Max. “The 5 Non-Negotiables give progressives a platform that doesn’t just react to the right, but articulates a positive vision for transforming society. Simply being anti-Trump isn’t enough, as evidenced by the Democratic Party’s incredibly poor standing with the American public.” The campaign provides progressives with practical tools for organizing at the grassroots level, independent of party structures. The website ( UNFTR.com/5nn ) includes downloadable policy briefs, social media posts, and email templates for contacting representatives. UNFTR’s goal is to empower Americans exhausted of being pushed aside as the wealthy gain disproportionately more power. For more information about the 5 Non-Negotiables campaign, visit UNFTR.com/5nn. To interview Max, email max@unftr.com. Founded in 2020, UNFTR is a progressive political podcast and media platform dedicated to providing in-depth, well-researched analysis of political, social, and economic issues affecting Americans. UNFTR produces a weekly podcast The New York Times called “consistently compelling and educational,” twice-weekly newsletter, and related video essays. Learn more at UNFTR.com. Contact Details UNFTR Media, LLC max@unftr.com Company Website https://www.unftr.com/

May 13, 2025 09:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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Vocatus Wins Best Marketing or PR Campaign Honor at the 12th Annual Family Wealth Report Awards

Vocatus

Vocatus, a leading communications and marketing firm serving the wealth management industry, announced that it has won the Family Wealth Report Award 2025 for the Best Marketing or PR Campaign. The honor came at the 12 th annual awards ceremony, held on May 8 at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York. The award recognizes the firm’s work on behalf of Callan Family Office, a registered investment advisor serving ultra-high-net-worth families, family offices, foundations and endowments. “I could not be prouder of my entire team for their creativity and ingenuity,” said Vocatus Chief Executive Officer Ray Hennessey. “As a young firm, we are honored to receive this validation from our peers and look forward to continuing to serve the wealth management industry through holistic public relations and marketing support.” The annual Family Wealth Report Awards recognizes the most innovative and exceptional firms, teams and individuals serving the family office, family wealth and trusted advisor communities in North America. "Every category winner and highly commended firm has been subjected to rigorous and independent judging process and be rightly proud of the success they have achieved this year,” said Stephen Harris, ClearView Financial Media’s CEO, and publisher of Family Wealth Report. "We have seen a marked increase in entrants and interest in all our global awards programs and Family Wealth Report is no exception.” Founded in 2022, Vocatus serves dozens of clients, from startups to some of the most established names in the financial services industry. Last year, Vocatus was named a finalist in several well-known wealth management awards, including the WealthManagement.com Industry Awards and ThinkAdvisor Luminaries. About Vocatus Vocatus is a leading communications, marketing and public relations firm, serving the financial services industry. With specialists across media and journalism, Vocatus provides high-level support to individuals and businesses, including wealth management firms, asset managers, fintech companies and business service providers. Contact Details For Vocatus Christina Diabo cdiabo@vocatusllc.com

May 09, 2025 12:17 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Sardius Media Powers Gather25

Digifora

Sardius Media was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. It exists to make mission-driven broadcasting and online event planning easier and more engaging. This is done through its first-in-class media platform as well as elite support from its experienced team of veteran software engineers and event specialists. Learn more at sardius.media. Sardius Media Powers Gather25 Sardius Media helped broadcast Gather25 for a non-stop 25-hour marathon on March 1, 2025. In that time, seven million Christians tuned in from around the globe. The event marked the debut and first full-scale test of Sardius Media’s AWS Elemental Anywhere, which amplified the reach of the event to 225 countries, providing live streaming and real-time AI and human interpretation in 87 different languages. The Global Impact of Gather25 Gather25 made history as an unprecedented 25-hour global broadcast uniting millions of Christians in prayer, worship, repentance, and commissioning. The broadcast streamed live sessions from seven locations in the United States, New Zealand, Malaysia, Romania, Rwanda, the United Kingdom, and Peru. This reached an audience of over 3.1 million unique users and over 21,000 self-organized gatherings (with a potential group reach of over seven million). These included a Dzaleka refugee camp in Malawi and 5,000 individuals gathered outdoors in Cebu City, Philippines. Notably, 117,000 U.S. prison inmates participated through the PandoApp from God Behind Bars. Amy Bay, Executive Director of Gather25, said, “What we saw at Gather25 was a picture of heaven — believers from every nation, tribe, and language coming together with one mission: to make Jesus known. We are so grateful to the Sardius team for the broadcast technology to pull it all together; it wouldn’t have happened without them.” Jonathan Sheehan (Future City Now, Renewed Vision), the producer of the event, said, "For decades, I’ve been producing large-scale events, and by any measure, Gather25 was a monumental undertaking. The sheer scope of the event, paired with the complexity of the technological challenges, demanded more than just vendors—we needed true partners. That’s exactly what we found in the Sardius team. Their skilled professionals dove into the trenches with us, collaborating tirelessly to bring this vision to life. The resulting millions who joined the event is a testament to a great partnership.” Architecting a Historical Broadcast Sardius Media was presented with a complex challenge to deliver a seamless broadcast delivery experience to this large global audience. In addition, they had to support real-time translation of AI and human interpretation in 87 different languages with a wide array of delivery options, including live interpreters, AI closed captions, voice interpretation, and core broadcast streams. Encoding numerous concurrent streams for such a long broadcast was a unique challenge, as well. The Sardius Team came together with event partner Future City Now to develop a global design aesthetic for the event. This incorporated complex workflows to seamlessly deliver the right content to the right audience in real time. Sardius Media accomplished this by leveraging AWS’s new Elemental MediaLive Anywhere product for its first large-scale deployment. They collaborated closely with the AWS team to ensure flawless performance and maintained this even when the popular Bible App YouVersion notified 36 million users to join the event, leading to a robust response. The AWS-powered streaming infrastructure managed the complexities without skipping a beat, delivering a resilient, scalable live stream for more than a full day and carrying the hope-filled message of Gather25 to every corner of the earth. Overcoming Unexpected Challenges With Agility and Innovation One challenge from Gather25 demonstrated the Sardius Media team’s agility in implementing its solutions and adapting to real-time barriers. Less than 24 hours before the event, the main fiber circuit into the studio master control was severed by an unexpected car accident. Sardius Media swiftly coordinated with various partners, secured alternate internet solutions, and rerouted encoder traffic. This ensured the stream was ready on time. Other unexpected challenges arose during the live stream, but each was efficiently addressed by the experienced Sardius team. Jason Shore, co-founder of Sardius Media, reflected on the milestone achievement, saying, “Gather25 pushed the boundaries of what’s possible in live streaming. Our team’s ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver under pressure made this a defining moment — not just for us, but for the global Church.” Gather25 showcased Sardius Media’s leadership in live streaming for mission-driven events — and this is just the beginning. Upcoming product updates and their continued AWS partnership promise even more innovation for future gatherings. About Sardius Media Sardius Media was founded in 2014 and is headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri. It exists to make mission-driven broadcasting and online event planning easier and more engaging. This is done through its first-in-class media platform as well as elite support from its experienced team of veteran software engineers and event specialists. Learn more at sardius.media. Transform your marketing efforts with strategies that yield results, build trust, and provide peace of mind. From strategic planning to implementation, digifora is your trusted partner, acting as an extension of your team or even becoming your dedicated marketing department if needed. Contact Details digifora Justin Brackett +1 843-284-6594 digifora.co@gmail.com Company Website https://digifora.com

May 01, 2025 12:48 PM Eastern Daylight Time

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Comcast to Bring Reliable, Symmetrical Internet to Prior Lake, Savage, Victoria, and Waconia

Comcast Twin Cities

Comcast plans to connect more than 30,000 new homes and businesses in four new Minnesota communities to reliable, high-speed, symmetrical Internet by expanding its next-generation network in the region. This expansion will enhance digital infrastructure, promote economic growth, and position residents and local businesses for success in an increasingly digital world. The network expansion in Prior Lake, Savage, Victoria, and Waconia will bring Internet, mobile, entertainment, and security services from Xfinity and Comcast Business to residents and businesses for the first time. The multi-million dollar-project boosts the company’s total investment in Minnesota’s technology and infrastructure to more than $525 million over the past three years. "Comcast is excited to bring our next-generation network to these four communities—ultimately delivering for residents and businesses the best converged network experience in the industry,” said Kalyn Hove, regional senior vice president for Comcast’s Midwest Region. “As the need for connectivity continues to grow, Comcast remains focused on delivering the best WiFi experience across its entire Twin Cities network, with continuous upgrades made to enhance how our customers stay connected—whether on a laptop, iPad, or mobile phone, whether at home or on the go, Comcast will be at the forefront, delivering an unparalleled experience with lightning-fast, symmetrical speeds on a reliable and seamless network.” A Network You Can Trust to be Reliable, Fast and Secure Comcast’s state-of-the-art network is built to enable residents and businesses to thrive in today’s constantly connected world. These four cities join the 64 million homes and businesses across the country to have access to a network that is trusted by essential community organizations like hospitals, schools, transportation systems and first responders, and federal agencies like the Department of Defense and FEMA. It delivers multi-gigabit Internet speeds, 99.9 percent reliability and security built in from the ground up to keep customers safe from cyber threats. Introducing Xfinity for Consumers Comcast’s residential services are marketed under the Xfinity brand, and consumers in these cities will be able to take advantage of Xfinity’s full suite of products, including Internet, video, mobile, voice and home security. With multi-gigabit Internet speeds, powerful WiFi that reaches every corner of the home, and super-responsive connections with low lag available with its plan, customers have a great experience using their connected devices to stream their favorite sports and entertainment content, video chat with coworkers and friends, learn from home or simply surf the web. Comcast Business to Power Local Workforce For local businesses, Comcast Business offers a suite of connectivity, communications, networking, cybersecurity, wireless, and managed solutions to help organizations of all sizes achieve their business goals. Industry analysts and associations have consistently recognized Comcast Business as a leader and innovator in flexible, scalable options as well as one of the fastest-growing providers of Ethernet services. What it Means for the Local Community Comcast’s commitment to communities goes beyond building the network and aims to increase economic mobility for the local community and its residents. That’s why Comcast created Internet Essentials, a broadband adoption program that offers eligible households low-cost, high-speed Internet and affordable computers. About Comcast Corporation Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Jill Hornbacher +1 651-425-1695 Jill_Hornbacher@comcast.com Company Website https://midwest.comcast.com/

April 22, 2025 07:00 AM Central Daylight Time

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Comcast RISE to Award $3 Million in Grants to 100 Local Small Businesses in the Wasatch Front

Comcast Utah

Today, Comcast announced that it will award comprehensive grant packages to 100 small business owners in the Wasatch Front. These grants are part of a program to support the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs committed to uplifting their local communities. Each grant package includes a robust array of support, including a technology makeover, creative production, a media schedule, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, and business consultation services. Between May 1 and May 31, eligible small businesses in Bluffdale, City of Draper, Herriman City, Riverton, Sandy City, South Jordan, City of West Jordan, and White City can apply for the Comcast RISE program at www.ComcastRISE.com. Grant packages will include: TECHNOLOGY MAKEOVER - Computer equipment and Internet, Voice, and Cybersecurity services for 12 months. (Taxes and other fees may apply for tech makeover services.) CREATIVE PRODUCTION & MEDIA - Professionally produced 30-second TV commercial, plus a media strategy consultation and a 180-day linear media schedule. (Taxes and other fees may apply for production and media services.) EDUCATION RESOURCES - 12-month access to online entrepreneurship courses, learning modules and resources for small business owners. MONETARY GRANT - $5,000 monetary grant. COACHING SESSIONS - Business assessment and coaching that provides business owners with recommendations on how to help grow their businesses. Wasatch Front, Utah is one of five regions where 100 local businesses will receive Comcast RISE grants, including Boston, Grand Rapids, Mich., Nashville, Tenn., and Seattle. The 500 total recipients will join the 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been supported through Comcast RISE since the program launched in 2020. “Among the many things we all love about Utah is our vibrant small businesses and Comcast’s commitment to supporting them,” said J.D. Keller, senior vice president of Comcast’s Mountain West Region. “The Comcast RISE program will deliver innovative and impactful resources that will make a lasting impact on small businesses in Utah. Supporting small businesses is crucial for economic development and ensuring that the backbone of our communities can thrive.” “The Comcast RISE program was everything I needed during a time of uncertainty and loss," said Tenisha Hicks, owner of Isha Recovery and Sculpt and former Comcast RISE recipient. “Having a way to help boost my business and ensure that patients can find me was a blessing, one that keeps giving to this day. I am so grateful for the Comcast RISE program and hope that it can help other businesses in the future because it certainly helped mine." Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, the company’s comprehensive initiative to create digital opportunity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. More information on eligibility requirements and details on how to apply are available at www.ComcastRISE.com. Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Deneiva Knight +1 520-345-9792 deneiva_knight@comcast.com Company Website https://utah.comcast.com/

April 14, 2025 02:00 PM Mountain Daylight Time

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City of Seattle Partners with Comcast to Announce $3 Million in Grants to Local Small Business Owners

Comcast Pacific Northwest

Today, Comcast announced that it will award 100 small businesses in King County with over $3 million in monetary, marketing, and technology grants through the Comcast RISE program. Expanding upon Mayor Bruce Harrell’s recent announcement to help local businesses grow and succeed, Comcast RISE is supporting the growth of small businesses and entrepreneurs committed to uplifting their local communities with comprehensive grant packages that include a technology makeover, creative production, a media schedule, educational resources, a $5,000 monetary grant, and business consultation services. "Seattle wouldn’t be Seattle without our small businesses—they create jobs, build community, and add to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods,” said Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell. “From inflation to public safety concerns, I hear directly from business owners about the challenges they face and their desire to succeed here. That’s why we’re excited to welcome the Comcast Rise grant program back to not just Seattle, but all of King County — which offers more than just financial support, but critical investments in technology, marketing and operations to help businesses stabilize, grow and succeed. Our local economy depends on all of us —public and private sectors — working together and leveraging our resources to build a stronger and more resilient economy.” According to a U.S. Chamber of Commerce report last month, revenue concerns are surging as inflation remains a dominant challenge for small businesses. The concern for inflation reached a new high with 58% of small business owners reporting inflation as a top concern. Further, more than 1 in 3 small business owners are concerned about revenue, the highest share since 2021. “Small business owners are facing significant financial concerns and economic uncertainty, and we want to help,” said Rodrigo Lopez, Region Senior Vice President for Comcast in the Pacific Northwest. “Among the many things we all love about the greater Seattle area is our vibrant small businesses community and we strongly encourage small business owners to apply to Comcast RISE. This program is designed to give you the resources to help your business thrive and contribute to the economic growth and resilience of our community.” From May 1-31, eligible small businesses in King County can apply for the Comcast RISE program at www.ComcastRISE.com. Winners will be notified in August. Starting in April and throughout May, local small businesses can learn more about the Comcast RISE program, eligibility requirements, and how to apply by attending free information sessions being held by Comcast RISE community partner organizations, including the Bellevue Chamber, Greater Seattle Business Association (GSBA ), Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce, Seattle Southside Chamber of Commerce, and Tabor 100. “When it comes to small businesses, we all know the challenges: we’ve seen the news, the closure notices, the boarded-up storefronts,” said Rachel Smith, president and CEO of the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce. “But there is good news on the horizon with another round of Comcast RISE grants and services to support Puget Sound region small businesses. Too many of our small businesses are on the bubble, and Comcast is serious about being part of the solution by offering financial support and technology services that help local businesses get a leg up. These businesses are the social fabric of our neighborhoods, and that’s why the Chamber is thrilled to be partnering with Comcast to help our members connect to this opportunity.” King County is one of five regions selected by Comcast in which 100 local businesses will be awarded the grant package. Other regions where small businesses will be awarded grant packages include Boston (MA), Grand Rapids (MI), Nashville (TN), and South Valley (UT). These recipients join the 14,000 entrepreneurs nationwide who have been selected as Comcast RISE recipients since the program launched in late 2020. Visit the Comcast RISE destination on the X1 platform for news, tips, insights, and more. Xfinity customers can say “Comcast RISE” into the X1 voice remote. Comcast RISE is part of Project UP, the company’s comprehensive initiative to create digital opportunity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. More information on eligibility requirements and details on how to apply are available at www.ComcastRISE.com Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA) is a global media and technology company. From the connectivity and platforms we provide, to the content and experiences we create, our businesses reach hundreds of millions of customers, viewers, and guests worldwide. We deliver world-class broadband, wireless, and video through Xfinity, Comcast Business, and Sky; produce, distribute, and stream leading entertainment, sports, and news through brands including NBC, Telemundo, Universal, Peacock, and Sky; and bring incredible theme parks and attractions to life through Universal Destinations & Experiences. Visit www.comcastcorporation.com for more information. Contact Details Comcast Andy Colley andy_colley@comcast.com Company Website https://washington.comcast.com/

April 14, 2025 08:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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