Education and training after high school have the power to transform lives. A credential, certificate or degree can lead to financial stability, fulfilling career opportunities and stronger communities. Ascendium is dedicated to helping learners from low-income backgrounds access those opportunities and achieve upward mobility.
Headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, the nonprofit works nationwide to expand access to postsecondary education and workforce training opportunities. Through Ascendium’s Education Philanthropy, the organization funds initiatives that drive systemic change and improve outcomes for learners pursuing education or workforce training after high school.
Ascendium also partners with colleges and employers to provide student and employee success solutions that support academic achievement, long-term financial wellness, and student loan repayment success. In addition, the organization serves as an education impact investor, supporting innovative companies focused on improving learner outcomes and expanding educational opportunity.
While Ascendium’s impact reaches across the country, the nonprofit remains deeply committed to supporting local communities. Through its employee giving and volunteer time off program, Ascendium Cares, employees are encouraged to support causes that matter to them through volunteer opportunities, charitable giving campaigns and community-focused initiatives throughout the year.
In 2025, Ascendium made several major investments in local organizations and programs that support education, workforce development and community enrichment.
- $2 million to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County to sustain its college and career readiness program.
- $347,000 to the Foundation for Dane County Parks to launch a new Conservation Careers Pathways Program for teens and youth.
- $300,000 to the Latino Academy of Workforce Development to expand workforce training programs.
- $1 million in Good Neighbor Grants to organizations focused on education and workforce training outcomes, as nominated and voted on by employees.
- $1 million to MTZ Charitable Organization to support the construction of a new community-based hub on Madison’s south side.
Ascendium’s workplace culture also reflects its mission-driven approach to elevating opportunity. Employees are encouraged to build connections and celebrate successes through appreciation events, family outings, team-building activities, wellness initiatives and seasonal programs held throughout the year. From volunteer campaigns to employee engagement events, the organization fosters a collaborative environment centered on purpose, connection and community involvement.
Whether investing in innovative education solutions, partnering with colleges and employers to improve student success, or funding transformative education and training programs, Ascendium remains focused on one shared goal: creating a world where everyone has the opportunity to rise to their highest potential. Learn more at ascendiumeducation.org.
