The Colorado African Cultural Center (CACC) has launched an essential initiative aimed at promoting digital inclusion among small businesses in underserved neighborhoods throughout Denver. Their Digital Equity Mini-Grant Workshop, backed by the generous support of the Den Foundation, aims to empower local entrepreneurs by addressing significant gaps in digital literacy.
As economic activity increasingly shifts online, digital skills and access to technology become crucial. This workshop focuses on businesses in areas like Montbello, Park Hill, East Colfax, and Globeville. These communities frequently encounter barriers to obtaining essential digital tools. By offering focused assistance, the CACC is not just bridging the digital divide, but also contributing to sustainable growth for local enterprises.
Meet Our Digital Equity Mini-Grant Workshop Grantees
In total, 26 businesses have been chosen to participate in this transformative program. Each selected grantee will access the resources required to thrive in a digital economy and join a supportive network aimed at collective success. Notable businesses include:
KamaraImages - A photography service focusing on family and event photography.
Colorado Spillionairs - A local wellness brand promoting health through sports with over 500 kids in paarticipation.
A Daughter’s Love LLC - A custom gift shop specializing in personalized items for special occasions.
Side of Mama’s Kitchen - A catering service that celebrates traditional recipes from diverse cultures.
Valkyrie Guard Services - A security company committed to enhancing safety through innovative solutions.
This diverse group represents a rich variety of services and products, all contributing to the vibrancy and economic development of their communities.
What Participants Will Walk Away With
So, what resources will these grantees gain from the Digital Equity Mini-Grant Workshop? Here’s a look at the valuable tools and training each business will receive:
A Professional Website
Building a robust online presence is critical. Each grantee will receive a custom website designed to showcase their business effectively. Research indicates that businesses with a website can see a 30% increase in customer engagement.
Digital Marketing Toolkit
Participants will have access to training in cybersecurity and key digital concepts, equipping them with essential skills to protect and manage their digital operations. A strong digital presence is crucial, but effective marketing is what connects them to potential customers. To support this, participants will receive a digital marketing toolkit filled with proven strategies for leveraging social media and expanding their customer reach. Companies that engage actively in social media marketing often see sales growth of 20-50%. With access to personal laptops and high-speed internet devices, provided in partnership with PCs for People, participants will be well-equipped to overcome access barriers and improve their business capabilities
Financial Management Training
Understanding the financial aspects of running a business is vital. Through comprehensive financial management training, grantees will learn fundamental accounting and bookkeeping skills, empowering them to manage finances effectively and make informed decisions.
Access to Technology and Internet
We will provide each participant with a personal laptop and a high-speed internet device to ensure they have access to essential technology, business resources, educational materials, and opportunities for self-development, in partnership with PCs for People. For many small businesses, the challenge lies in both knowledge and access. By offering these resources, participants will gain access to crucial technologies and internet connectivity, helping them overcome barriers and enhance their digital capabilities..
Three Months of Post-Program Support
Sustainable growth requires ongoing support. Each participant will receive three months of post-program assistance, ensuring they can apply what they've learned and navigate their growth journey successfully.
Flexible, Virtual Training
Our flexible, virtual training program, held over three weeks in evening sessions (Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-8 PM MT), allows business owners to participate fully without interrupting daily operations. Key areas covered include:
Week 1: Website design fundamentals and social media setup for business growth.
Week 2: Financial management essentials tailored to small businesses.
Week 3: Website maintenance, cybersecurity basics, SEO, and analytics tracking.
The Importance of Digital Equity
The Colorado African Cultural Center's initiative emphasizes the growing importance of digital equity in today’s economy. For small businesses, having a digital presence is no longer an option; it’s essential. Companies leveraging digital tools are better positioned for success, growth, and the ability to serve their communities effectively.
Digital equity programs empower small businesses while driving overall economic growth. They ensure diverse representation in the digital space. This workshop exemplifies how targeted initiatives can uplift entire communities.
Looking Ahead
As the Colorado African Cultural Center begins its journey with the Digital Equity Mini-Grant Workshop, they are laying the groundwork for a more inclusive digital environment. By providing crucial resources, training, and support to a wide range of businesses, the CACC is not just creating opportunities for individual entrepreneurs but also strengthening the economic foundation for underserved neighborhoods.
The selection of 26 grantees marks just the beginning. The wider impact of this initiative has the power to transform these communities, highlighting the vital role that digital equity plays in empowering small businesses. With the collaboration and support from the Den Foundation and others, we can anticipate a future where all businesses, regardless of their background, can flourish in the digital landscape.
This initiative serves as an inspiring reminder: when we bridge the digital divide, we uplift not just individual businesses, but entire communities, paving the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.
Meet Our Digital Equity Mini-Grant Workshop Grantees: October Cohort
KamaraImages: Specializes in photography services, including portrait, event, and commercial photography, capturing moments and creating visual narratives.
Colorado Spillionairs: Focuses on community and youth empowerment through sports, education, and mentorship, fostering personal development and leadership skills.
A Daughter’s Love LLC: Provides personalized caregiving and support services for the elderly, emphasizing compassion and family-oriented care.
Side of Mama’s Kitchen: Offers catering services and home-cooked meals, focusing on comfort food and traditional recipes to nourish the community.
Valkyrie Guard Services: A security firm that provides professional security personnel and risk management services for events, businesses, and residential areas.
Denver IT Plug, LLC: Offers IT consulting, support, and services, including network setup, software solutions, and tech support for businesses and individuals.
Kab Libey Stationary: A stationery store providing a variety of writing materials, art supplies, and office products, catering to students, artists, and professionals.
Drapped Up and Dripped Out LLC: A fashion and clothing brand that specializes in trendy and unique apparel, focusing on style and personal expression.
New Americans Construction and Engineering Employment Services: Provides job placement and training services in the construction and engineering fields, specifically targeting new immigrants and refugees.
Famib LLC: A family-owned business that offers a range of products and services, including home goods, consulting, and community engagement activities.
Park Hill Nutrition LLC: Focuses on health and wellness, providing nutritional consultations, meal planning, and healthy food products for individuals and families.
TrilogE People Group: A consulting firm that specializes in organizational development, training, and workforce solutions to enhance productivity and employee engagement.
Ebenezer Home Health Care: Offers in-home healthcare services, including nursing, physical therapy, and personal care, to support individuals in their homes.
The All Purpose Group LLC: Provides a wide range of services, from project management to event planning, aimed at helping businesses and individuals achieve their goals.
Books 2 The Tee: An educational service focusing on providing books, tutoring, and resources for children and families to support learning and literacy.
April Loves Accessories Ltd: A fashion accessories brand that designs and sells unique jewelry, bags, and other fashion items to enhance personal style.
90 Day Program: A personal development program that offers coaching and support for individuals seeking to achieve specific goals within a three-month period.
LaLafashions: A fashion boutique offering stylish clothing and accessories, catering to women’s fashion trends and personal expression.
Gratitude Care Services Inc: Provides a range of care services, including personal care, companionship, and home health services, with a focus on gratitude and compassion.
AkiriQuickBooks: Specializes in QuickBooks consulting and training, helping businesses manage their finances and bookkeeping effectively.
WorkingHouse Solution: A staffing agency that connects employers with qualified candidates, offering workforce solutions across various industries.
ConsensysGrowth Consulting LLC: Provides business consulting services focusing on growth strategies, operational improvements, and market expansion for companies.
Faithful and True Productions: A media production company that creates content for various platforms, including film, television, and online media, with a focus on inspirational storytelling.
Taste of Soweto: A restaurant or catering service offering authentic South African cuisine, showcasing traditional dishes and flavors from the Soweto region.
Quintessence: A wellness brand focusing on holistic health products and services, including wellness coaching, herbal remedies, and mindfulness practices.
Flowish LLC: A creative agency that specializes in branding, marketing, and design services, helping businesses establish their identity and reach their target audience.
Event Details
📅 Launch Date: Friday, October 25th | 3 PM – 5 PM
📍 Location: PCs for People, 6035 E 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80207
⏳ Application Deadline: October 22nd at 11:59 PM
Graduation & Celebration
The program will culminate in a graduation ceremony, celebrating the achievements of our grantees.
📅 Graduation Date: Thursday, November 19th | 2 PM – 5 PM
📍 Location: PCs for People, 6035 E 38th Ave, Denver, CO 80207
Limited Spots Available for Future Cohorts
Only 25-30 spots are available each quarter. To join the waitlist for future sessions, apply here: Digital Equity Program Waitlist.
Thank You to Our Supporters
We extend our sincere gratitude to Den Foundation for funding this initiative, to Business 101 Services for their Business Service Hub, and to DEDO for their unwavering support in advancing digital empowerment. Together, we are committed to equipping Colorado’s small businesses with the resources to succeed and make lasting impacts within their communities. Congratulations to all our grantees!