About us

Our story

AscendRural was created to boost well-being by bridging the innovation gap in rural America.

We do this by connecting technology companies with rural communities to pilot, validate, and scale solutions.

Read our mission, vision, and values

Meet the team

At AscendRural, we’re a team of doers, connectors, and community advocates working to ensure rural people shape the future of innovation—designed with them and for them.

We bring together diverse expertise, but what unites us is a deep commitment to listening first, building trust, and co-creating solutions rooted in the real needs and aspirations of rural communities

  • Jose Alba

    Jose Alba

    Director of Community Engagement

  • Jess Lake

    Jess Lake

    Research & Operations Lead

    READ BIO
  • Melissa Kjolsing

    Melissa Kjolsing

    Managing Director

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  • Steph headshot

    Steph Peters

    Director of AscendRural Innovation Lab

  • Eryn Johnston

    Eryn Johnston

    Innovation Strategy & Design Lead

    READ BIO

How we work

At AscendRural, we’re a team of doers, connectors, and community advocates working to ensure rural people shape the future of innovation—designed with them and for them.

We bring together diverse expertise, but what unites us is a deep commitment to listening first, building trust, and co-creating solutions rooted in the real needs and aspirations of rural communities.

Learn more