
Ascension
Description
Ascension is a prominent London-based early-stage venture capital firm distinguished by its foundation of exited entrepreneurs, aiming to empower the next wave of technology and impact-driven founders. Operating primarily at the Seed and Series A stages, the firm brings a founder-centric approach, leveraging its team's direct experience in building and scaling businesses. Ascension's investment strategy is diversified across several funds, including a broader institutional fund and specialized vehicles like the Fair By Design Fund, which specifically targets innovative solutions combating the poverty premium. This multi-fund structure allows Ascension to pursue both strong commercial returns and significant societal impact.
The firm typically deploys initial cheques ranging from £250,000 to £1.5 million, which translates to approximately $317,500 to $1,905,000 USD based on current exchange rates. For its Fair By Design Fund, the investment range is more focused, usually between £250,000 and £750,000, underscoring its commitment to specific impact themes. Ascension prides itself on being more than just a capital provider; it offers strategic guidance, operational support, and access to a robust network, helping portfolio companies navigate the challenges of early-stage growth and achieve their full potential.
With a portfolio boasting investments in over 100 companies, Ascension has established itself as a significant player in the UK's early-stage ecosystem. The firm's assets under management exceed £100 million, reflecting its substantial capacity to back promising startups. Ascension's unique blend of entrepreneurial insight, strategic capital deployment, and a strong focus on both financial returns and positive societal change positions it as a valuable partner for ambitious founders looking to scale disruptive technologies and create meaningful impact.
Investor Profile
Ascension has backed more than 299 startups, with 13 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 57 rounds, about 19% of its total and boasts 19 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Pre Seed, Series Unknown rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United Kingdom, United States, Finland.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, FinTech, Financial Services.
- Led 4 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $317.5K – $1.9M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (60%)
- Pre Seed (17%)
- Series Unknown (13%)
- Series A (5%)
- Undisclosed (2%)
- Angel (1%)
- Series B (1%)
Country Focus
- United Kingdom (96%)
- United States (2%)
- Finland (1%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Fintech
- Financial Services
- Apps
- Internet
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- E-commerce
- Advertising
- Information Technology
- Health Care
Frequently Asked Questions
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