United Way of Northern Utah and Comcast Celebrate Grand Opening of a Business Incubator for Community Organizations
In today’s climate, nonprofits face five major challenges that can hinder their ability to serve our community. A partnership between United Way of Northern Utah (UWNU), Comcast, and other funders addresses these challenges head on with the launch of a new nonprofit incubator and Comcast Lift Zone designed to equip local nonprofit organizations with the technology, training, and collaborative space needed to grow and thrive.
The Behnken Nonprofit Learning Campus, located in the heart of Ogden, will provide an innovative, low-cost workspace for nonprofit organizations, including access to private offices, shared workspaces, grant research stations, and state-of-the-art meeting rooms equipped for hybrid collaboration. The Comcast Lift Zone within the space will ensure that nonprofits can leverage high-speed internet and digital tools to enhance their missions and better serve the community.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at United Way of Northern Utah, located at 2955 Harrison Blvd. #201, Ogden, UT. The event featured special remarks from local leaders, nonprofit executives, and Comcast representatives.
Addressing the Most Pressing Pain-Points Nonprofits Face in 2025
Funding challenges, staffing issues, technology limitations, operational challenges, and cybersecurity risks are challenges many non-profits will face this year, according to Forbes.com.
“Nonprofits play a critical role in strengthening our communities, yet many lack the resources to access the technology and training necessary for long-term success,” said Julie Johnson, CEO/President, United Way of Northern Utah. “The Behnken Nonprofit Learning Campus will bridge this gap by offering a collaborative hub where nonprofits can innovate, grow, and expand their impact.”
With over 10,750 nonprofits in Utah, and 77% operating on budgets under $100,000 per year, the demand for affordable workspace and digital access has never been greater. The Behnken Nonprofit Learning Campus is designed to address these challenges by providing:
- Six private offices – available at significantly discounted rates for small nonprofits
- Two grant research stations – equipped with computers and software to support financial sustainability
- Two conference rooms – outfitted with advanced hybrid meeting technology
- Four private work pods – for focused work or small meetings
- Shared co-working spaces – with laptops available for on-site use
- Casual gathering areas and networking spaces – fostering collaboration between nonprofits
- A fully equipped kitchen and break space – promoting team building and relationship development
“People Helping People’s mission is to help low-income women, primarily single mothers, learn how to earn an adequate income through successful employment. We are excited to tenant at the new United Way Non-Profit Learning Campus,” said Kathryn Thomas, Executive Director, People Helping People. “After serving the greater Salt Lake County area for more than 31 years, PHP is expanding our employment program reach into surrounding cities and counties including Box Elder and Cache counties. This learning campus location will provide us with a collaborative space to connect with other agency partners, and a homebase for staff, volunteers, and the clients we serve.”
Comcast Utah Joins this Public-Private Partnership to Help Bridge Gaps
Comcast’s investment in the Behnken Nonprofit Learning Campus underscores its commitment to digital opportunity and community empowerment. Through its Lift Zone initiative, Comcast is helping to close the digital divide by providing reliable, high-speed internet access in community spaces where it is needed most.
“At Comcast, we believe in the power of technology to transform lives,” said Deneiva Knight, external affairs director at Comcast Mountain West Region. “By partnering with United Way of Northern Utah, we are ensuring that local nonprofits have the tools and connectivity they need to make a meaningful impact.”
Comcast Utah supports nearly 100 local non-profits to the tune of $5.2 million in cash and in-kind donations in the last three years. In addition, 240,000 Utahns benefited from low-cost high-speed broadband as part of Comcast’s Internet Essentials program.
For more information about the Nonprofit Connection and Comcast Lift Zones, visit:
• United Way of Northern Utah Website
