In collaboration with OneTech x Capital Entreprise

Ascend

Applications closed for 2024
View cohort

Accelerating impact for
growth-stage ventures

The overall objective of the Ascend programme is to support 35 businesses with high growth potential, helping them secure the necessary funding and connections to scale their operations and reach their full potential.

Investment readiness support for women & non-binary founders

The Ascend programme focuses on investment readiness, business and funding advice, investment relationship brokerage, and aftercare support. It aims to identify women and non-binary led businesses that are at a fast-growth stage and require funding to scale. The programme aims to move these businesses to the next level by introducing them to connections and opportunities.

What Ascend has to offer you

Investment Readiness
During this phase, businesses will receive support & guidance to become investment-ready. This may involve refining their business plans, improving financial projections, and enhancing their overall value proposition.
Business & Funding Advice
Through the programme, businesses will have access to business & funding advice. This will include mentorship & guidance from industry experts providing insights and establishing relationships with potential investors.

Programme Experts

Nadia Crandall
Co-Founder and Director, Capshore Partners
Surayyah Ahmad
Investor and Founding Partner at TT labs
Yasmin Greenway
Founder of dermie.AI
Rohan Harris
Human Capital Consultant in Venture Capital and Private Equity
Morgan Killick
Founder and Managing Director, Level Up Solutions Ltd
Julia Eliott Brown
CEO and Founder of Enter The Arena
Jonny Clark
Investment Programmes Lead, Capital Enterprise, Funding & Investment 101, Marketing Essentials For Investment and Pitch Deck Essentials
Chenelle Ansah
Early Stage Investor and Founder of Nell Consulting
Anthony Rose
Co-founder and CEO of SeedLegals

2024 timeline

There are only 45 spaces available on this unique 12-week programme, delivered through a combination of virtual and in-person events from August 2024 to February 2025.
22 April
Applications open
08 July
Applications close
13 August
Accelerator starts
17 Febuary
Demo day
ProcessCriteria

Application process

Our three-stage application process ensures that applicants and their businesses are at the right stage of their journey to gain the maximum benefit from this amazing opportunity. To apply successfully, it's important to meet the application criteria and ensure your business aligns with the programme's requirements.
Stage 1

Written application

Please check that you meet the criteria. If you do, then complete the application form.
Stage 2

Interview

Shortlisted applicants from stage 1 will go through a virtual interview with Foundervine lasting 30 minutes.
Stage 3

Final Selection

Shortlisted applicants from Stage 2 will be sent an invitation to join the Ascend Programme. You will have two days to accept the invitation and confirm your place.
Meet the cohort
View all
Agreka Build
Agreka Build
Amboora
Amboora
Atomic Innovation
Atomic Innovation
Adventures in the Wild
Adventures in the Wild

Aftercare &
Investor Connects

After the initial phase, the programme offers robust post-programme support from January 2025 to February 2025. Businesses will have the opportunity to connect with established investor networks.

This will provide you with access to potential funding sources & further opportunities for growth and expansion.
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.