Welcome to
AscendRural

Bridging the gap between innovation and rural America to improve well-being.


AscendRural is a technology-driven innovation hub dedicated to boosting the well-being of rural America. Created and launched by Sourcewell, it embodies their commitment to helping communities thrive.

Our program brings together local leaders and the innovation community to pilot technology solutions in central Minnesota that have the potential to scale nationally. We address opportunities related to mental and physical health, connectivity and infrastructure while accounting for what makes rural communities unique.

Our Why

Most health-related innovations are not designed for rural communities due to limited infrastructure, dispersed populations, and unique economic realities that create barriers to adoption.

AscendRural seeks to change this dynamic by demonstrating the viability and potential of rural markets for new technologies. We're working to elevate rural America as a key player in the innovation ecosystem.

Mission

AscendRural exists to massively improve the quality of life in rural regions by co-creating solutions with innovators, healthcare providers, community and government leaders.

Vision

To ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live, has access to the right resources to support their well-being.

Learn more about pilot opportunities

Origin story

AscendRural was created to deliver tangible, sustained, and positive impact to the health and well-being of rural communities through right fit technology and innovation.

Embracing the realities of rural living from weather to infrastructure constraints, AscendRural’s active focus and investment in innovation aims to improve the well-being for rural citizens and ultimately the economic prosperity of these regions.

Read about AscendRural’s values.