Empowering Underinvested Entrepreneurs with Lasting Results
Ascend is more than a program—it’s a launchpad for underinvested entrepreneurs. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and a supportive network, we help small business owners build resilience, unlock growth opportunities, and create lasting impact in their communities.
Overview
Since 2017, Ascend has helped underinvested entrepreneurs turn ambition into a plan, and a plan into results. Each participant gets more than a workshop series. They get a growth plan built around their specific business, one on one time with WACIF advisors who know their industry and their numbers, and a small cohort of peers who understand exactly what they’re building and why it matters.
Ascend exists because too many entrepreneurs who are positioned for growth fall through the cracks between the resources built for startups and the capital and coaching their businesses actually need. We built Ascend to close that gap, one entrepreneur at a time.
How we serve Ascend Participants
Building the confidence to lead boldly
Turning the knowledge into know-how
Fueling growth without the financial strain
Earning loyal customers who become your best advocates
Protecting what you’ve worked so hard to build
Growing a business that lasts
Ascend
As an Ascend participant, you’ll spend eight weeks building the skills and strategy your business needs to grow, alongside a small cohort of entrepreneurs on the same journey. You’ll leave each session with something practical to apply immediately, and by the end, you’ll walk away with a 12-month growth plan built specifically for your business, plus the ongoing support to help you carry it out. This isn’t a one-and-done workshop. It’s a year of accountability, connection, and forward motion.
Members Can Expect
- Weekly classes over the course of eight weeks
- Individualized, vetted growth plan and opportunity to work with WACIF small business advisers
- Final “capstone” presentation
- Eligibility for WACIF grant and debt capital
- 12-months of continued accountability and engagement opportunities
- Networking opportunities with other cohort members and alumni of past Ascend Accelerators
- Graduation celebration
Members Are Expected To
- Commit up to 10 hours a week for workshops, research, and class assignments
- Attend all training sessions
- Create a 12-month growth plan
- Build relationships with cohort members, advisors, and other stakeholders
- Attend networking events
Information Session
Application Closed
Frequently
Asked Questions
Answers to Common Questions about our Programs and a quick guide to our processes
Am I eligible?
We strongly encourage entrepreneurs who meet the following criteria to apply for the Ascend program: (1) Your business has operated for at least two years. (2) Your business generates at least $50,000 in annual sales. (3) Your business has an operational website. (4) Your business is registered and in good standing.
How Many Businesses Will be Accepted?
We are excited to welcome up to 15
My business has been operational off and on over the past few years. Will I be eligible for this cohort?
Based on the focus of the program and the workshop training, Ascend is best suited for entrepreneurs whose businesses have been operational for a minimum of 2 years and have an annual revenue of $50,000.
Should I apply if I am unable to attend all the workshops?
We want to ensure participants can take advantage of all the workshops and learning opportunities offered throughout the program. While we expect participants may not be able to attend every workshop and activity due to scheduling, work, and life occurrences, wherever possible, absences are limited to one (1) session. If you are likely to be absent for more than one session, please consider applying at a time better suited to your schedule.
Will the training be conducted in person or virtually?
Workshops will be conducted virtually.
Does my business need to be located in Washington, D.C.?
The principal office of the business must be in Washington, D.C., Prince George’s County (MD), Montgomery County (MD), Howard County (MD), Arlington County (VA), or Alexandria (VA).
When will I find out if I am accepted into the cohort?
All individuals will be notified before the initial start of the program if they are accepted into the accelerator.
How will this round of Ascend Capital Accelerator applications be evaluated?
Applications will be reviewed holistically, considering the overall strength of the business, financial sustainability, growth potential, expressed challenges, and the potential to increase revenue and profitability.
Do I have to give up equity to participate in the Ascend Retail Business Accelerator?
No, you retain full ownership of your business. This program is fully funded by generous donors and offered free to accepted brands.
Can I participate if I have a full-time job?
The program is designed for entrepreneurs who are running their businesses full-time and are available to attend the accelerator training on Tuesdays from 10:00 am -1:30 pm EST (virtually).
What happens after I complete the program?
After completing the program, you will join our alumni network with opportunities to expand your business relationships, have ongoing mentorship access, take advantage of extensive business resources, and more!