At Ascendus, every client’s financial journey is unique, and our mission is to support them wherever they are on their path to financial health. At our recent offsite, we deepened our commitment to empowering small business owners with the tools they need to achieve lasting financial well-being.
Our latest focus is on financial health as a powerful tool to assess clients’ unique needs and track their progress. This approach lets us map each journey more effectively, aligning our products, programs, and brand promise with clients’ goals so they can thrive in every aspect of their business.
We’re excited to enter this new era of Ascension, where financial health is at the core of our mission. Together, we’ll continue to ascend, supporting each client’s financial journey with a commitment to lasting well-being.
CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF DEDICATION
This month, we’re thrilled to celebrate Carmen, the Director of Loan Service & Collections, for 30 years of dedication to Ascendus. Carmen has been a cornerstone piece of our team, helping countless clients achieve their financial goals with care and expertise.
BACK TO OUR ROOTS: ASCENDUS’ FIRST CLIENT
“Before, I couldn’t get a loan. Now, people treat me with respect.”
– Uvalda Alvarado
Uvalda was our very first client, and since then, Ascendus has been committed to helping clients like her achieve financial health by supporting their unique journeys.
Originally from Mexico, Uvalda moved to the U.S. alone. She struggled to make ends meet, surviving on wages from odd jobs and temporary work. Uvalda eventually married, had two children and did the best she could to stretch her $100 weekly paycheck to meet her family’s needs.
One day, tired and looking for work, she stumbled upon the food truck, which was for rent, and decided to start her business. She began selling Mexican specialties to the nearby factory workers, but was soon told to purchase the truck for $500 or face eviction. Without the cash on hand, she wasn’t sure if her business would survive. Luckily, she heard of a new local lending organization—now Ascendus—and got the loan she needed to secure her business’ and family’s future.
LAUNCHED: ASCENDUS CUSTOMER PORTAL (BETA PHASE)
We are excited to announce the launch of our new Customer Portal, currently in its beta phase. This portal is designed to streamline your experience with Ascendus, making it easier to manage your accounts, track loan progress, and access resources all in one place. We invite you to explore the portal and let us know your feedback!
HURRICANE SEASON & SBA ASSISTANCE
If your business has been affected by Hurricane Helene or Milton, the SBA offers disaster assistance to help you recover. Both physical disaster loans and economic injury disaster loans (EIDL) are available, and businesses can apply for assistance through the SBA’s website or directly via the My SBA Loan Portal.
CLIENT STORY SPOTLIGHT
Childcare Business Development
If you have been in business for more than three years, you can access up to $25,000 in fast-track financing at the same interest rate within 48 hours.
Need a loan, line of credit, or just some personal finance coaching to help your business grow? Check out these products and resources designed for your needs.
LOOKING BACK
Read our newsletter on an interview with our COO, Ana Hammock!
To find more insightful business resources, check out our resources here.
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
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Looking for more business resources?
Check out our curation of resources designed to help minority-owned businesses flourish.