The advent of data science and technical start-up growth in Columbus, OH brings tremendous promise to the Midwest city. Columbus is proud to win the U.S. Department of Transportation's $50 MM Smart City grant in June, 2016. However, not all parts of Columbus are thriving. Our city has been covered on newscasts such as WNYC for what is called a "split-city effect" (See: http://www.wnyc.org/story/poverty-tour). Ascent Microfinance is working for change. We’re a student-run, 501c3 certified nonprofit which began in March, 2017 by a group of Ohio State engineering and business students. Ascent understands the needs of our neighbors and believes a loan should support, not hinder, our clients. We provide safe, affordable loans to enable individuals in Linden, Franklington, and other low-income areas to reach their full potential. Ascent is a firm believer that money alone cannot solve this issue, rather it is through education that one can achieve financial stability. Through our tailored financial education programs, we will aid our neighbors in crisis. We will foster relationships which lead our clients all the way through their ascent to life-changing resources, financial skills and stable banking solutions.