Alpine Investors-backed Ascend, an investment firm, completed the investment in Opsahl Dawson, an accounting firm. Financial terms were not disclosed. “Ascend is entering the industry at an all important time as firms face talent shortages, succession issues and a need for capital. Entrepreneurial CPAs who want to bring their firms into the future find themselves facing two less than ideal options today: maintain their traditional partnership structure which limits their ability to retain talent and invest in growth, or merge up and lose their independence and leadership role. We are pioneering a better model that empowers CPAs to reach their goals while preserving the culture and feel of their local firm. I am personally passionate about making a positive impact on this profession, which I see as a bedrock of society. I can think of no more important work,” David Wurtzbacher, Ascend Founder and CEO.