How we work
Our model
AscendRural connects technology companies with rural communities to pilot, validate, and scale solutions that improve accessibility, availability, and affordability challenges in health, connectivity, infrastructure, social cohesion, and community resilience.
Rural Innovation Accelerator for Startups
We accelerate promising innovations and technology that measurably improve health outcomes, well-being, and quality of life in rural places. Our four-week, cohort-based program equips early-stage tech companies with the insights, mentorship, and partnerships needed to succeed in rural markets.
4-week, cohort-based program for high-potential solutions
Real-world pilot opportunities post-accelerator with rural providers, EMS, public agencies, community organizations, and more
Potential for pilot funding support and connections to follow-on funders; hands-on support for evidence generation, ROI analysis and reimbursement, and rural adoption
Community Cohorts for Rural Collaborators
Rural communities play a critical role in shaping and testing new ideas. The AscendRural Community Cohort is a select group of communities that will explore, test, and adopt solutions that strengthen rural senior care.
As a cohort partner, your community will gain:
A pathway to participate in real, funded pilots with vetted technologies
A meaningful voice in shaping the direction of national technology sourcing
Tools, templates, and frameworks designed specifically for innovating in rural contexts
A peer network of organizations facing similar challenges and opportunities