Introduction

ASCENT is a not-for-profit expression of Harsh Mariwala, Chairman of Marico Ltd., born from his passion for identifying high-potential, growth-stage entrepreneurs and leaders and empowering them to grow their enterprises and enrich their journey.

Launched in 2012, ASCENT today empowers more than 950 entrepreneurs across India. This unique, powerful peer-to-peer platform leverages the “Power of the Collective” through self-facilitated groups called ‘Trust Groups,’ enabling entrepreneurs and leaders to share and exchange experiences, ideas, and insights, and create a healthy ecosystem to learn from each other.

Vision and Mission

Harsh Mariwala envisioned ASCENT as a catalyst for entrepreneurial growth and development in India. The foundation's mission is to foster a collaborative environment where entrepreneurs can thrive by learning from one another's experiences and insights. By focusing on the growth and well-being of entrepreneurs, ASCENT aims to contribute to the larger goal of economic development and innovation in India.

What They Do

ASCENT creates a close-knit Trust Group of non-competing leaders who believe in Learning from Doers. This peer-to-peer platform allows leaders to share experiences, ideas, and insights, fostering mutual learning through self-facilitated Trust Groups and an extended network of Enablers. Each Trust Group is carefully curated to ensure a diverse mix of industries and expertise, promoting cross-pollination of ideas and collaborative problem-solving.

Trust Groups

Trust Groups are the cornerstone of ASCENT’s approach. These groups consist of 10-12 entrepreneurs who meet regularly to discuss their business challenges, share successes, and provide mutual support. The self-facilitated nature of these groups ensures that members take ownership of their learning journey and actively contribute to the collective growth of the group.

Enablers Network

The Enablers Network complements the Trust Groups by providing access to industry experts, thought leaders, and experienced mentors. This extended network offers additional resources and insights, enhancing the learning experience for ASCENT members.

Why ASCENT?

With a diverse community, ASCENT adds value beyond the Trust Group through:

- Mentoring, Coaching, and Training Programs: Offering guidance and knowledge from experienced mentors to support the growth and development of entrepreneurs.

- Leadership Programmes: Providing opportunities for leaders to enhance their skills and capabilities.

- Domain-Specific Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the exchange of specialized knowledge to help entrepreneurs navigate their industries.

- Networking Opportunities: Creating connections among entrepreneurs to foster collaboration and growth.

- Mental Health Toolkits: Offering resources to support the well-being of entrepreneurs and leaders within the larger ecosystem.

- Annual Events and Workshops: Hosting events that bring together the ASCENT community for networking, learning, and celebrating entrepreneurial successes. These events provide a platform for members to showcase their achievements and gain visibility within the broader business community.

Impact and Success Stories

Since its inception, ASCENT has made a significant impact on the entrepreneurial landscape in India. The foundation has enabled numerous entrepreneurs to scale their businesses, overcome challenges, and achieve sustainable growth. Success stories from ASCENT members highlight the effectiveness of the peer-to-peer learning model and the value of the collective wisdom that the Trust Groups provide.

Testimonials

Many entrepreneurs attribute their success to the support and guidance they received through ASCENT. Testimonials from members often emphasize the transformative impact of being part of a Trust Group, citing increased confidence, improved decision-making, and the ability to navigate complex business challenges more effectively.

Conclusion

Harsh Mariwala's ASCENT Foundation stands as a beacon of support and growth for high-potential entrepreneurs across India. By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, ASCENT enables leaders to learn from each other, grow their enterprises, and enrich their entrepreneurial journey. The foundation's commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and creating a thriving business ecosystem underscores its vital role in India's economic development and innovation landscape.