Building Scalable Businesses

Ascend Twin Cities develops businesses owned by Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC). We support BIPOC-owned businesses for success and growth so that they are prepared to scale and succeed in the long-term.

  • Access

    Access to capital through SBA and conventional lending, equity investment, and Grants for BIPOC Entrepreneurs.

  • Partner

    Partnerships with global corporations and BIPOC entrepreneurs nationally to facilitate contract opportunities.

  • Growth

    Best-in-class curriculum, offered by the University of Minnesota for BIPOC Entrepreneurs on contract readiness with anchor organizations.

Our ANCHORS

 

Partner with Leading Corporations

Fueled by an unprecedented commitment from five global companies, our initiative launched with the support of Target, Best Buy, General Mills, Cargill, and Travelers.

Your Vision, Ready to Grow

Turn potential into reality. Our BIPOC Entrepreneurs represent a powerful combination of expertise, innovation, and commitment to scale. Expanding with the initiative and competing effectively.

Systems Change Through Supplier Diversity

Ascend Twin Cities is a partnership initiative between JPMorgan Chase & Co., MEDA (Metropolitan Economic Development Association), and Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship (Carlson School of Business at the University of Minnesota). With the support of our Anchors we provide access to capital, market opportunities and business education to BIPOC Entrepreneurs.

Our Strategy

  • Advise

    Ascend Twin Cities provides business owners with the consulting services they need, and works with anchors to deepen their supplier diversity programs

  • Accelerate

    We identify opportunities for businesses to scale, help them expand by facilitating the right partnerships, and offer them access to the capital they need to grow exponentially.

  • Achieve

    By establishing firm commitments and outlining benchmarks, Ascend Twin Cities helps businesses achieve sustainable results in industries with high GDP growth.

Our Partners

Our Team

John D. Stavig
Director at Gary S. Homes Center for Entrepreneurship

Twauna Mullins
Supplier Development Manager, MEDA