Deadline to apply for the WACIF Ascend Capital Accelerator is June 7th

APPLY HERE for Cohort 4, up to fifteen (15) local and independently minority-owned small businesses will be selected through a competitive application process. Applications will open on May 3, 2019, close on June 7, 2019, and be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please email our team at intake@wacif.org with any issues related to your application.

The Ascend Capital Accelerator provides underrepresented entrepreneurs with the ability to accelerate business growth, access and obtain capital, and pursue government contracting opportunities. With the goal of building human and financial assets for local small businesses, this hands-on, multi-week asset-based development program consists of an interactive workshop series combined with small group matching and wraparound individualized support. 

The Ascend Capital Accelerator 4.0 (“Ascend East”) will provide financial and management training to local small businesses located in changing East of the River neighborhoods or commercial corridors facing direct or indirect operational challenges and/or seeking assistance to pivot their business models to seize new opportunities. This hands-on, 6-week asset-based development program consists of an interactive workshop series combined with small group matching and wraparound individualized support, with the goal of building human and financial assets for local small businesses.

The overall goals of Ascend East are to: (1) help stimulate economic development in Wards 7 and 8 by supporting small businesses to strengthen their operations, (2) identify opportunities to strengthen their business model and improve economic resilience, and (3) provide affordable financing to small businesses unable to access financing from responsible and/or mainstream lenders.

Wacif will form a cohort up to 15 local small businesses located in Ward 7 or Ward 8.  The businesses will be selected through a competitive application process which will be used to screen businesses for the following criteria: (1) the business; (2) its management; (3) financial position; (4) growth plans; (5) attainment of (or ability to attain) local and/or federal certification; (6) expressed small business and/or market challenges; (7) commitment to remain in Ward 7 or 8; and, (8) ability to increase revenue and profitability.

Eligibility Requirements

Eligible applicants are businesses with at least two (2) years of operations. Businesses in operation for fewer than 2 years may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Online businesses are not eligible for the program. Applicant businesses must also:  

  • Be an independent, local, and minority-owned small business

  • Be registered and in good standing to operate a business in the District of Columbia

  • Be located in D.C. Wards 7 or 8 

  • Have a physical (brick and mortar) office location

  • Be able to commit to 10-12 hours weekly for Accelerator workshops, assignments, and technical assistance meetings. 

  • Have at least $75,000 in annual sales

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