Ascendus is a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that empowers low-to-moderate-income small business owners with access to capital and financial education. They offer affordable loans ($500 to $250,000) and financial coaching to support business growth and financial resilience. Their target audience includes socially or economically disadvantaged entrepreneurs, particularly women and individuals of color. The unique selling proposition is their holistic approach, combining lending with personalized support and education to help clients improve credit scores and achieve long-term financial stability, setting them apart from traditional lenders[1][2][4].