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Citizens Bank Award

New York, NY – 3/27/26

Ascendus Receives $25,000 Grant from Citizens to Strengthen Small Business Lending and Financial Education in South Florida

New York, NY — Ascendus announced today that it has received a $25,000 grant from Citizens in support of the 2026 South Florida Small Business Lending and Financial Education program, serving entrepreneurs across Miami-Dade and Broward counties. This investment reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to responsible capital and financial coaching for entrepreneurs working to strengthen their businesses.

Ascendus, a national nonprofit CDFI dedicated to uplifting small business owners, will use the funding to support entrepreneurs in today’s new financial reality — providing access to opportunities and guidance so they can make informed business decisions, increase their competitiveness, invest in their businesses, and build a stronger financial future. Through this program, Ascendus will provide 700 entrepreneurs with more than 200 hours of technical assistance, of whom 100 will gain access to $2 million in capital.

Ascendus is grateful for Citizens’ commitment to small business owners and the communities they serve. This funding allows us to continue expanding access to financial coaching and capital so entrepreneurs can strengthen their financial foundation and pursue their business goals. Citizens has supported Ascendus’ work in South Florida since 2024, a relationship built in large part through the dedication of Fabiana Estrada, Ascendus’ Regional Vice President of Lending and Business Development.

About Ascendus

Ascendus is a nonprofit, nationwide Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with over 30 years of experience empowering low- to moderate-income small business owners. Through access to capital and personalized financial coaching, Ascendus helps entrepreneurs build resilient businesses and achieve lasting financial health.

Learn more at ascendus.org.

About Citizens Financial Group, Inc.

Citizens Financial Group, Inc. is one of the nation’s oldest and largest financial institutions, serving individuals, businesses, and communities through a broad range of financial services. With a history dating back to 1828, Citizens is committed to providing solutions and expertise that help customers, clients, colleagues, and communities prepare for what comes next.
Learn more at citizensbank.com