Advocacy in Washington

Ascend Consulting DC

Ascend Consulting DC is a Washington-based government relations firm founded by Anne Basham, focused on elevating organizations’ influence and impact through government relations and grant funding. The firm helps clients navigate complex government systems, working as their representative to translate policy priorities into real access and results.

What the team does

Government relations. Direct advocacy with lawmakers and agencies at the federal and state level, so your organization’s voice is heard where policy is made.

Grants and RFPs. Research, writing, and management to help secure federal, state, and private foundation funding opportunities.

The Ascend difference

Coalitions & trade associations. Deep experience representing coalitions and trade associations, and building convenings from the ground up across state, federal, and international levels.

Appropriations & grant funding. Pursuing federal funding and congressional appropriations on clients’ behalf. The firm secured more than $10M in grant funding for clients in 2024 alone.

Decades of Washington relationships. Extensive networks built over decades in D.C., internationally, and with state governments.

Why government relations

Ascend’s government relations work specializes in human rights, security, energy, health, nonprofit, transportation, and commerce issues, with particular depth in coalition building at the local, national, and international level. The firm convenes the Anti-Trafficking in Persons (ATIP) Policy Roundtable in the U.S. Senate and several state-level policy coalitions, and Anne has helped establish an international consortium of legislators focused on stopping human rights abuses through policy.

“The Foundation United was impressed by Ascend’s professionalism and commitment to reaching its legislative goals.”

Elizabeth Fisher Good
CEO, The Foundation United