Ascend Studios Foundation

Ascend Studios Foundation is a non-profit organization registered in SAM.gov with a focus on empowering women entrepreneurs, particularly in the technology and digital skills sectors. The foundation's primary mission appears to be supporting women-led businesses and startups through targeted training, mentorship, and accelerator programs, with a particular emphasis on African markets, especially Nigeria. Their work centers on developing digital skills, enhancing business capabilities, and providing strategic support to impact-driven tech and tech-enabled businesses.

The foundation has been awarded multiple federal grants primarily through the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of African Affairs, with a specific concentration on women's entrepreneurship and digital skill development. Their recent grant awards include the "LEAP WOMEN AFRICA" accelerator program, which trained and mentored 50 startups running impact-driven tech businesses in Nigeria, providing training from Nigerian and U.S. tech executives. The grants range from approximately $108,000 to $120,000 and are typically structured as Project Grants or Cooperative Agreements under the Public Diplomacy Programs (CFDA 19.040). Their upcoming AWE 2.0 initiative, scheduled for September 2024, aims to empower 200 alumnae with advanced digital skills in content creation, social media, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence, with the goal of enhancing business promotion, visibility, and sales for women entrepreneurs. These programs demonstrate Ascend Studios Foundation's commitment to leveraging technology and strategic mentorship to support women's economic advancement.