GM Business Growth Hub, in partnership with KPMG and RBC Brewin Dolphin, has opened applications for the next intake of its ASCEND Scale Up Programme.
Starting in April 2026, ASCEND 3 will guide another 25 businesses through a 12-month scale-up programme designed to support their future ambitions and foster business growth.
Building on a proven format of success, the programme offers expert mentorship, tailored workshops, and exclusive networking opportunities, including a strategy retreat and international exposure at an exciting founders conference – SLUSH 2026 in Helsinki.
Now in its third cohort, ASCEND offers dedicated mentors who provide personalised support to assist participants in creating and executing customised strategic growth plans. The programme helps founders in Greater Manchester maximise the potential of their businesses.
Those on the programme will get access to workshops, talks and discussions with successful founders spanning a broad spectrum of topics, including strategy governance, people and culture, innovation, finance and longer-term exit planning.
In addition to GM Business Growth Hub, the programme is further supported by RBC Brewin Dolphin and KPMG, providing valuable guidance and insight from business experts to the participants.
“ASCEND has come at a critical point in my business journey and has had a genuinely positive impact. It has provided space clarity and high-quality support at a time when we are scaling at pace and facing new challenges as a first-time founder,” said Gabriel Erinle (pictured below), founder of GAME Facilities Management, a member of ASCEND cohort 2.
“The programme has helped me think more confidently about structure governance and sustainable growth while staying true to our values. I have found it so beneficial that I have already been signposting other founders in my network to apply for future cohorts.
“It feels designed and delivered by people who genuinely understand what it takes to grow a business.”
The notable feature of this year’s ASCEND Scale Up Programme, is the participants’ opportunity to attend SLUSH 2026 – the world’s most founder-focused startup event, held annually in Helsinki. This gathering of global innovators brings together a curated crowd of European startups, world-class investors and tech journalists.
“What makes ASCEND stand out is our commitment and support to the fundamentals of scaling businesses,” said Janine Smith, Director of GM Business Growth Hub.
“Through a carefully planned combination of workshops, personalised guidance from expert coaches and mentors, immersive visits, and valuable peer-to-peer networking opportunities, ASCEND provides founders with the necessary tools and insights to navigate the scaling journey.
“We’re delighted to be working in partnership with the team at KPMG and RBC Brewin Dolphin on this programme.”
Founders interested in accessing the support and resources available to Greater Manchester’s business community are encouraged to apply.
Applications for the ASCEND Scale Up Programme are now open for the next cohort beginning in April 2026. Shortlisted businesses will be invited to an interview in February.