ASCEND Cohort 2 is Now Open for Applications!
Following the success of our first cohort, ASCEND returns with a powerful scale up programme designed to help Greater Manchester’s most ambitious founders scale faster and smarter.
This dynamic 9-month journey kicks off in June 2025, offering expert mentorship, tailored workshops, and exclusive networking opportunities – including a strategy retreat and international exposure at Web Summit in Lisbon.
We're looking for 25 high-growth founders ready to take their business to the next level. Could that be you? Apply now and be part of ASCEND Cohort 2.
What can you expect from this action-packed programme?
Tailored to the needs of the ambitious founders who participate in the programme:
Workshops
Gain insights from industry experts and experienced entrepreneurs, along with top-quality support from our key partners, KPMG.
Personalised Coaching and Mentoring
Receive monthly mentoring offering confidential one-on-one guidance from experienced mentors, helping you navigate challenges, refine skills, and achieve personal and professional growth with tailored support.
Experiential Travel
Kickstart your journey with a strategy retreat in the Peaks this June, building connections with your cohort, then join the Web Summit 2025 in Lisbon, expanding your global network.
Funding Opportunities
Connect you with active investors to present your business and enhance your funding prospects.
Elite Network
Networking with Cohort 1 – Learn from those who have gone before you and build out your community of local founders from a range of sectors.
Fireside Chats
Gain valuable knowledge and connect with guest speakers and connect with fellow founders.
As part of the ASCEND Scale Up Programme, our partner KPMG will lead a number of delivery days, including "Strategy to Action", focusing on translating strategic vision into actionable plans and fostering a culture of success.
Experience the World's Largest Tech Conference
ASCEND participants will have the opportunity to attend Web Summit in Lisbon November 2025. Join by over 70,000 attendees, the event offers a great learning and networking opportunity to gain industry inspiration and global exposure.
Key Dates:
- Applications Close: 2nd May 2025
- Interviews: 12th - 23rd May 2025
- Programme Launch: 10th June 2025
- Residential stay in Peaks: 19th - 20th June 2025
- Web Summit 2025: 10th – 14th November
Don’t miss this opportunity to scale your business with ASCEND.
Apply now and take the next step towards sustained success!
Mentors of Cohort 1
Dr. Howard Simms
Founder of Apadmi, experienced in technology and scaling businesses
Susanna Lawson
Co-founder of OneFile, expert in edtech and start-up/scale-up advising
Tony Preedy
Former Managing Director of Fruugo, specializing in digital marketing and growth strategy
Dr. Vikas Shah MBE DL
Entrepreneur and investor, with extensive experience in founding and exiting businessesLearn more about the programme
FAQs
Still not sure if the ASCEND Scale Up is right for you? Our most common questions are here.
If you still have questions, get in touch.
The ASCEND Scale Up Programme is a flagship initiative by GM Business Growth Hub designed to assist ambitious businesses in Greater Manchester with scaling up their operations. It offers a blend of workshops, personalised guidance, networking opportunities, and resources tailored to the needs of scaling businesses.
The programme is right for you if your business is:
- Based in Greater Manchester.
- Has a team of at least 10 people.
- Growing at 20% year-on-year.
- Brings in a minimum annual revenue of £250,000.
- Unrivalled Support – Tap into expertise from our partners at KPMG.
- Exclusive Perks – Past cohorts have benefitted from trade missions and a bespoke media package.
- High-Value Network- Build relationships with fellow ambitious entrepreneurs and industry leaders.
To make the most of ASCEND, participants must:
- Be a key decision-maker in your business
- Commit to attending all programme activities
- Participate in a charity day with the cohort to give back to the local community
The programme is a 9-month journey with 9 key content blocks, grouped into 4 phases.
Phase 1: Foundations for Growth
1. Scaling Smarter
2. Innovate to Elevate
3. Market & Multiply
Phase 2: Building for Scale
4. Tech & Transformation
5. Finance Fundamentals
6. Ready to Raise
Phase 3: Futureproofing & Leadership
7. Stay on Track
8. Lead to Succeed
Phase 4: Integration & Action
9. The Growth Blueprint
Business leaders are selected through an application and interview process, with emphasis placed on their vision, potential for growth, and commitment to leveraging the opportunities provided by the programme.
Interested business leaders should fill out the expression of interest form available on the GM Business Growth Hub website. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview to assess their suitability for the programme.
GM Business Growth Hub will fund the tickets, programme of activity, hotel, and breakfast. Participants should fund their travel to Lisbon and other meals.
Hear first-hand experiences from Cohort 1 in the video below:
Expression of Interest
Fill in the form below to take your first step towards expert mentorship, valuable connections, and real business growth.
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