At Ascendus, we know every business is more than a storefront—it is a story of courage, culture, and community.​
This May, during AAPI Heritage Month and Small Business Week, we uplift the ambition and consistency of Asian American and Pacific Islander small business owners, and the journeys they have undertaken to build opportunity—for themselves, their families, and their neighborhoods.

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Facing the Climb: Challenges Along the Way​

Despite contributing more than 4.6 million jobs to the U.S. economy, many AAPI entrepreneurs continue to face persistent challenges: language differences, limited credit access, and financial systems that often miss important cultural context. These challenges slow access to the tools needed to strengthen businesses that are already making an impact.​
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Opening Doors: The Power of Access and Guidance​

Progress takes more than open doors—it takes intention and understanding.​
At Ascendus, we meet AAPI business owners with tools and coaching designed around the unique reality of each path.​

We do this by offering:​

• Access to Capital – Flexible, credit-building loans and lines tailored to each stage of growth.​
• Financial Coaching – Bilingual, culturally aware guidance to support confident financial decisions.​

We do not lead the way—we walk beside our clients with empathy, experience, and trust.​

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Stories of Ascension: Cntxt.agency​

When Rich Le founded Cntxt.agency, he was not just launching a design studio—he was creating a platform for values-driven creativity. After years in advertising, Rich realized he needed more control to do work that aligned with his purpose: solving real problems and making a meaningful impact.​

But building a business with heart came with challenges—especially financial ones. As both the strategist and the creative lead, Rich was stretched thin.​

With a loan from Ascendus, Rich was able to consolidate debt and invest in systems that allowed him to grow sustainably. Today, Cntxt.agency continues to scale its mission—offering high-quality, human-centered design that uplifts stories too often overlooked.​

With the right support, purpose becomes power.

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Resources for AAPI Entrepreneurs​

Ascendus acknowledges the important work of organizations that offer resources for AAPI business owners, including:​

• Asian American Business Development Center (AABDC)​
• Ascend Leadership Network​
• Asian Professional Exchange (APEX)​

We share a common goal: expanding access, visibility, and opportunity.​​

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This Way Up​

Ascension is not a destination—it is a rhythm. It happens in the early mornings at neighborhood bakeries. In the quiet confidence of a business owner reviewing their monthly numbers. In the resilience of a storefront reopening its doors.​

AAPI entrepreneurs are already on this journey—rooted in heritage, fueled by vision, and steady in their climb.​

At Ascendus, we are not here to lead the way.​
We are here to walk with them—step by step, decision by decision, all the way up.​