NONPROFIT CAPACITY BUILDING

At LASVP, we value innovation and the power of entrepreneurial spirit. Nonprofits with new and better solutions to L.A.’s problems are often young and imperfect organizations themselves. We understand this, and are willing to support the growth and development of these kinds of organizations. We work with them to build long-term capacity, rather than short-term projects or programs, using two approaches:

Investees - We periodically select nonprofits to receive multi-year cash grants, and pull together customized consulting teams who work with them on their highest organizational priorities such as marketing, finance, strategic planning, and board governance. We set specific goals and track progress, knowing that we can all learn from our experiences and continuously improve the way we do our work and the results that we produce for the community.

Social Innovation Fast Pitch - This annual program takes 20 innovative nonprofits through two months of training and mentoring on how to succinctly and powerfully “tell their story”. The program culminates in a “Fast Pitch” competition – a high-energy, fast-moving, quick-fire presentation event, giving the nonprofits increased visibility to an audience that includes potential donors and volunteers. Over $100,000 in support were awarded at last year's event.

LASVP's “venture philanthropy” model combining money, time and talent is key to helping nonprofits achieve results that are not merely measurable…they are remarkable.

Learn about our current Investments in L.A. non-profits.

Learn about the Social Innovation Fast Pitch program.

EXPANDING PHILANTHROPY

The other half of the SVP mission is to expand the community of philanthropists and deepen their commitment to addressing the needs of Los Angeles. Through engagement with Investees, collaboration with other SVP Partners, and participation in educational events, Partners become more informed, committed philanthropists, often expanding their personal philanthropic contributions and activities to new levels.