Innovating for Inclusion: Hanoi Frias and Ascendus’ Partnership Story
We believe financial ascension flourishes when partnerships are powerful, and communities stand united. Hanoi Frias, Branch Manager at M&T Bank, exemplifies how building bridges can transform lives. Since joining M&T Bank in January 2023, Hanoi has led with purpose, empowering business owners and entrepreneurs through financial education and innovative solutions.
Building Pathways to Financial Ascension
Hanoi understands the challenges small business owners face in accessing traditional financing. “At M&T, while we can support many startups, we can’t bank or lend to them all,” she explains. “That’s where partnerships like Ascendus are crucial. Being able to offer my customers a solution, even if it’s not directly with us, has been incredibly impactful.”
One standout story involves a business owner whose credit score didn’t meet M&T’s requirements. Hanoi recalls, “I texted Andrea at Ascendus, and within five minutes, he called me back. He said, ‘I think we can make it work,’ and within days, the client had secured funding. They’ve since improved their credit and started saving money.”
Rejane’s journey further highlights the transformative power of this partnership. With the support of her husband and an Ascendus loan, Rejane invested in the tools needed to grow her esthetics business and complete her professional training. Her story mirrors the impact Ascendus aims to create, illustrating the possibilities unlocked through dedication and access to the right resources.
These successes not only benefit the clients but also reinforce the trust between M&T Bank and its local communities.
Community Builders: United for a Shared Purpose
For Hanoi, the collaboration with Ascendus is about more than financial solutions—it’s about building community. “The biggest thing for me is how responsive you all are,” Hanoi shares. “Whether it starts with a text, a phone call, or an email, Ascendus always jumps in to support my customers quickly. The process is seamless, and my clients feel like they’re talking to someone from my own team—it doesn’t feel foreign or disconnected.”
This human connection, grounded in shared values, has driven measurable results. “Four out of five customers I’ve referred to Ascendus have come back to us with improved credit and financial standing,” Hanoi says. “It’s amazing to see the progress they make.”
The impact extends beyond lending. Hanoi partnered with us at community events and financial coaching workshops, strengthening our shared commitment to empowering individuals and fostering trust. Reflecting on a nail salon owner she referred, Hanoi recalls, “Andrea got to work immediately, helping her consolidate her debt. She was so grateful—even though the solution wasn’t directly with M&T, she felt supported every step of the way.”
A Shared Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Hanoi envisions an even stronger partnership between M&T and Ascendus. “My goal is to collaborate more in the community. Last year, M&T was the top minority lender through the SBA lending program, and I know Ascendus also works with the SBA. I’d like to see us show up together at community events, offer more financial coaching workshops, and keep building that strong presence,” she says. “It’s all about keeping the lines of communication open and consistent.”
Hanoi also emphasizes the importance of trust in successful partnerships. “The trust between me and Ascendus was crucial—it wouldn’t work if our values didn’t align,” she explains. “Be open, transparent, and willing to build genuine relationships. The personal connection is just as important as the professional one.”
For Hanoi, this partnership is deeply personal. “Ascendus is a reliable source in the micro-lending space,” she says. “You’ re part of my elevator pitch when I talk to clients—there’s never a time I don’t mention Ascendus.”
