Our Approach
We work closely with you to develop a customized advocacy and appropriations strategy tailored to your unique goals, ensuring your message reaches the right people. We efficiently utilize longstanding, trusted relationships so you can quickly have access to shaping policies that:
Named a Top Lobbyist
Congress · Executive Branch · Federal Agencies
Whether you want Congressional appropriations, relationships inside a federal agency, or a strategy to advance legislation, success in Washington depends on knowing the right people and knowing how to work with them.
Led by Anne Basham, a former senior official at the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Senate staffer and a nationally recognized Top Lobbyist, Ascend’s team brings direct, senior-level experience inside the Legislative and Executive branches. We know the process because we’ve worked on the inside.
Advocacy is the strategic sharing of knowledge to influence policies that impact people’s lives. If your goal is lasting impact, you need a seat at the table with decision-makers. Decision makers want to hear from you, and government relations ensures your voice is louder and your influence is greater.
Relationships are at the core of effective government relations, and a good firm saves you years of time developing them. We leverage extensive networks on your behalf as your representative in Congress and the Executive Branch, accelerating access to the people who shape policy.
Service and results set us apart. Our team has served in senior leadership in Congress and the Executive Branch, as well as legislatures around the world. We make complicated federal systems simple and establish your organization as a policy leader.
The Foundation United was consistently impressed by the professionalism, enthusiasm for our cause, and dedication to accomplishing our legislative goals. We are grateful for the commitment and advocacy shown.
Our Services Include
What Sets Us Apart
Most government affairs firms offer access. Ascend offers access plus insider knowledge of how the federal government actually allocates funding, moves legislation, and responds to organized advocacy.
Anne Basham served in senior leadership as a Presidential Appointee at the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, which directed over $2 billion in federal funding to organizations. That behind-the-scenes understanding of how agencies allocate resources is an advantage.
Recognized by the National Institute for Lobbying and Ethics, reflecting years of effective, ethical advocacy across the energy, health, security, commerce, and nonprofit sectors.
In an increasingly divided Washington, the ability to advance legislation across the aisle is rare and valuable. Our track record and relationships span both parties and multiple policy areas.
We specialize in bringing diverse stakeholders together, from community organizations and advocacy groups to government agencies and private sector partners, around a shared vision and common goals.
We go beyond simply gathering people at the table, building the trust, structure, and strategy coalitions need to turn collective energy into lasting change.
You have access to the entire Ascend team, including experienced lobbyists and grant professionals who work in coordination to advance your goals.
Tell us about your mission. Get in touch and we’ll map the path to greater funding and a stronger voice in government.