A sweltering Thursday in May couldn’t stop Comcast Business from partnering with two incredible coffee shops in Jacksonville, Florida. The technology leader teamed up with the small business owners to help spread the good news about Comcast RISE. If you haven’t heard, the small business support program recently launched in parts of Florida’s First Coast and southeast Georgia.
Social House Coffee, owned by former Jacksonville Jaguar Arrelious Benn, and Social Grounds Coffee Roasters, owned by veteran Jason Kelloway, opened their doors to welcome the community. The coffee shops handed out free cups of joe and Comcast RISE swag to customers.
Celebrity Chef Robert Irvine, a longtime Comcast Business supporter, made a surprise appearance at both locations to encourage small business owners to apply for the grants.
Later that afternoon, Irvine spoke to small business owners, community leaders and veteran organizations at a special event. Irvine, alongside Comcast, hosted “Breaking Bread with Heroes.” The event was designed to honor the military community in Greater Jacksonville and ensure veteran-owned small business know about Comcast RISE’s benefits.
Irvine said he remains passionate about supporting and strengthening the physical and mental well-being of service members, veterans and their families. He set up Robert Irvine Foundation to help in that mission. At “Breaking Bread with Heroes,” Irvine said he was moved by Jason Kelloway’s service and story. He publicly pledged to mentor the small business owner, saying that type of support is invaluable.
“The best thing that Comcast RISE offers is somebody to help you with your business for a year. To me, that is worth its weight in gold,” said Irvine. “To be able to pick up the phone and call somebody is worth more than a check. Thank you to Comcast for giving small business owners the opportunity to have that direct access.”
The special event, hosted at The Lark in Downtown Jacksonville, also included a special performance from Riverside High School’s Navy JROTC and words from Comcast Florida leaders.
Eligible businesses in Greater Jacksonville and surrounding areas can apply for a grant package at ComcastRISE.com through May 31. Recipients will be announced in August 2024. Go apply!
