Published: January 19, 2026 at 11:55 am
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.
Founders interested in accessing the support and resources available to Greater Manchester’s business community are encouraged to apply.