Ascension

What is Ascension?

Ascension is a venture capital firm based in London that specializes in Seed and Early Stage investments. With an emphasis on the UK market, they target businesses that are raising their first or second round of funding. Ascension offers a flexible approach, capable of leading investment rounds or following alongside other funds or angel investors.

Their mission is to forge partnerships with founders to help accelerate their growth towards a Series A round and beyond. The firm manages a diversified portfolio across various tech sectors and is known for their impact-driven investment strategy.

Ascension prides itself on being more than just a source of capital; they provide a holistic partnership backed by a team of practised entrepreneurs with firsthand startup experience.

This includes access to a robust network of mentors, growth opportunities through events and introductions, and a collaborative approach designed to guide startups forward. The firm's impact and institutional funds focus on backing tech businesses that address significant social challenges in the UK, such as poverty premium, childhood obesity, and the cost-of-living crisis. They operate tax-efficient funds, including EIS and syndicate funds aiming to deliver tax-free capital growth to investors.

Ascension has been recognized as the Seed VC of the Year in 2022 by the UK Business Angels Association and is among the most active impact investors per Beauhurst. With over 150 startups in their portfolio, more than £100 million under management, and a track record of 14 exits, Ascension remains committed to empowering the next generation of founders and transforming visionary ideas into impactful businesses.

What they say:

Ascension is built by exited operators to back the next generation of tech entrepreneurs. Since 2015, Ascension has invested in 150+ startups through our General Tech & Impact Funds.Our specialist approach and extensive sector reach allow us to identify and scale pioneering tech enterprises.

What we look for: We invest in UK business raising their first or second round. Ascension can lead rounds or follow alongside other funds or angels. Our goal is to partner with you to accelerate growth towards Series A and beyond.