Lenovo’s Evolve Small Initiative: Supporting Small Businesses with Grants and AI Training
In a significant move to bolster the small business sector across North America, Lenovo, a global leader in technology solutions, has announced its 2025 cohort of grant recipients under the Evolve Small program. Now in its fourth year, this initiative is designed to empower small businesses by providing them with crucial financial support, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive professional development opportunities. This year’s selection brings an exciting addition to the grant package: AI training. This novel inclusion aims to provide businesses with the expertise needed to integrate artificial intelligence into their daily operations.
Empowering Small Businesses with Grants and Technology
Milo Speranzo, Lenovo North America’s Chief Marketing Officer, emphasized the company’s commitment to small businesses, stating, "At Lenovo, small businesses are seen as the backbone of our communities and a significant driver of innovation. Through our Evolve Small initiative, we aim to not just provide funding and technology but to pave the way for sustainable, AI-enabled growth." Speranzo further highlighted the resilience and bold spirit of this year’s grant recipients, expressing enthusiasm for their future success.
A Rigorous Selection Process
The selection process for this year’s Evolve Small grants was competitive, with over 900 applications submitted from across North America. Lenovo partnered with Goodie Nation, a non-profit organization focused on entrepreneurship and community building, to meticulously evaluate each application. After a thorough review, ten small businesses were chosen to receive the prestigious 2025 Evolve Small prize package, which includes a $25,000 grant, a technology package valued at $10,000, and a year of professional development support.
Meet the 2025 Evolve Small Grant Recipients
The recipients of this year’s grants represent a diverse array of industries and innovative business models:
- Just Add Honey Tea Co. (Atlanta) – This company blends organic loose-leaf teas, offering a delightful and fuss-free tea experience to enthusiasts.
- Archway Pet (Chicago) – Specializing in sustainable pet food, Archway Pet uses novel proteins like invasive fish and insects to create allergen-friendly products.
- Urban Hydration (Dallas) – Committed to hydrating both skin and communities, Urban Hydration provides plant-based skincare and haircare solutions while partnering with nonprofits to deliver clean water to those in need.
- Coble Studios (Houston) – Aiding creators and brands, Coble Studios offers broadcast-quality video, podcast, and live event production services powered by advanced technology.
- DungeonForward (Miami) – This company is redefining headwear and fashion with statement pieces that blend cultural heritage, innovation, and artistic excellence.
- Cubtale (Los Angeles) – A personalized care platform for new parents, Cubtale provides data-driven guidance to help parents navigate challenges from feeding to baby milestones.
- Crossfaded Hair Studio (San Diego) – Known for blending the precision of barbering with the artistry of coloring, Crossfaded Hair Studio offers modern urban haircuts and styles.
- Fila Manila (Washington, D.C.) – Producing pantry staples inspired by Filipino culture, Fila Manila aims to bring representation to one of the largest AAPI communities in mass grocery.
- Helius Originals (Toronto) – Specializing in eco-luxury high-end cocktail and culinary smoking products, Helius Originals combines premium craftsmanship with sustainability.
- Simply Smile Studio (Vancouver) – This dental hygiene service offers personalized therapies in a supportive environment, ensuring oral health accessibility for individuals facing various barriers.
Lenovo’s Transition and Commitment to AI
In recent years, Lenovo has evolved from a leading device manufacturer to a technology solutions leader with a strong focus on artificial intelligence. The company’s belief in the transformative potential of Hybrid AI underpins its commitment to making AI tools accessible to businesses of all sizes. Through the Evolve Small program, Lenovo has distributed over $3.6 million in grants and technology resources across the U.S. and Canada, enabling thousands of small business owners to capitalize on new growth opportunities and future-proof their operations.
Expanding Community Engagement
Beyond direct support to small businesses, Lenovo has expanded its Evolve Small mission through strategic local partnerships. Recent collaborations with sports franchises like the Carolina Hurricanes and the New York Knicks have helped amplify the voices of small businesses in their communities, offering grant funding, brand exposure, and collaborative marketing opportunities aimed at fostering long-term growth and success. These local initiatives reflect the same philosophy Lenovo applies to its global partnerships, such as those with Formula 1 and FIFA, leveraging the power of sports and storytelling to forge deeper community connections and promote inclusive growth both locally and globally.
For more information on Lenovo’s Evolve Small program, visit the official Lenovo website.
This comprehensive support for small businesses, combined with Lenovo’s focus on AI and community engagement, underscores the company’s commitment to nurturing innovation and growth in the small business sector. As these businesses harness the resources and opportunities provided by Lenovo, they stand well-equipped to make significant strides in their respective industries.
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