Problem
Black-owned small businesses lack sufficient resources to create and operate a digital presence and platform, which leaves these businesses to operate exclusively by cash only.
Solution
We are providing black business owners with tools and resources to grow their digital operations with free website software and a free Square terminal to accept digital payments. Ascend Birmingham is the first of its kind in Alabama, and is accomplished through a partnership with Mastercard, Square, Accion Opportunity Fund, and Sunrise by Lendio. The program created an education curriculum that provides active resources to take small businesses to the next level. Ascend Birmingham will help local small businesses pivot and thrive in the new normal of contactless, safe, and socially distanced business practices.