Founder & CEO

Dr. Griselda Martinez is the founder of Ascendo Strategies. Griselda embodies a transformative force in the realm of economic development. With a career that spans two decades, she combines her strategic planning, program design, and project management expertise with an intrinsic understanding of the unique needs of communities often overlooked by conventional consulting firms.

Griselda's bilingual and multicultural proficiency has equipped her with the tools to drive economic growth in diverse settings. Her educational accomplishments, including a Doctorate in Economic Development and her certification as a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), attest to her commitment to this field.

Embracing an asset-based, Griselda’s approach is to leverage existing community strengths to drive wealth creation from within. She appreciates the importance of creating community capacities for economic resilience and prosperity. Her work is rooted in the belief that every community possesses untapped assets that, when nurtured and developed, can lead to sustainable growth and wealth creation. As a visionary leader, she is purpose-driven and based on genuine connections.

Economic Development Consultant

Dr. Manuel L. Reyes-Loya, a multi-talented economic development practitioner, brings a unique perspective to the conversation. With over 15 years of comprehensive experience, Manuel has an impressive track record in research, impact analysis, and public policy, underpinned by a strong foundation in finance and education. His bilingual proficiency makes him an effective communicator across diverse communities.

Manuel's robust academic achievements, including his doctorate in Economic Development and Public Finance and an MBA in Finance, have equipped him with the expertise to conduct sophisticated economic research and modeling. His proficiency in various data analysis tools and his skills in input-output modeling and economic impact analysis ensure the delivery of comprehensive and precise solutions.

Serving in numerous prestigious roles, from a Senior Research Analyst & Director to Research Scientist at the Center for Economic Development and Research, Manuel has proven his ability to navigate complex economic landscapes. His publications in reputable journals underscore his commitment to advancing knowledge in his field. As a committed member of various professional organizations, including being a member of the Hispanic Professional Association of Tyler, he actively participates in shaping the future of economic development.

Research & Economics Consultant

Dr. Cecilia (Cecy) Cuellar Tapia stands at the intersection of economics, public policy, and data analysis, focusing uniquely on gender and labor issues. Cecy’s distinguished career as a research analyst and her experience as an adjunct professor provide her with the depth of knowledge and perspective that sets her apart in economic development consulting.

Cecy's academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Economics, a Master's Degree in Industrial Engineering from the Autonomous University of Nuevo Leon (UANL), Mexico, and a MicroMasters Program in Data, Economics, and Development Public Policy from MIT,, giving her a solid foundation to approach economic issues with rigor and precision. She's the go-to expert for data-driven insights and adept at econometrics, micro-data analysis, and economic research.

Cecy's most distinctive expertise lies in her focus on gender and labor-related issues, a realm often underrepresented in traditional economic development consulting. This focus and teaching experience equip her to provide comprehensive, inclusive strategies for local communities and non-profit organizations. Cecy also utilizes non-traditional channels like Instagram to make complex economic concepts relevant to general audiences.