FAQs

What is the "venture capital model?

SVP looks into the community to identify needs and promising solutions in the same way that a venture capitalist would try to find good ideas and entrepreneurship in emerging companies. Venture capitalists not only find a company and make an investment of dollars, but also assess the company's overall needs and infuse that company with the knowledge, skills and contacts of its Partners. Their time and expertise are as important as money in helping a new business move toward profitability

Similarly, SVP invests in sustainability and organizational capacity of nonprofit organizations by taking a long-term approach, providing professional expertise and working together towards annual objectives and measurable outcomes.

Read more about the SVP Capacity Building Model.

How does Social Venture Partners differ from a typical foundation?

Unlike most private foundations that are funded by a single person or family, SVP is a giving organization comprised of individuals who hope to achieve a greater impact together than they could individually. Partners working in small teams make grant decisions and create in-depth multi-year partnerships with nonprofit organizations in King County.

In addition to working with nonprofits, SVP provides seminars, workshops and resources to its Partners to help them further develop their personal giving and community engagement objectives. This "curriculum" of Partner Education provides in-depth information about philanthropic planning, community involvement and the social and environmental challenges facing our region.

How does SVP interact with local foundations and nonprofit organizations?

SVP benefits greatly from partnering with and learning from smart people and organizations around Puget Sound. In its grantmaking process, SVP talks with and learns from many experts in the nonprofit community about the issues that SVP funds. SVP also listens to other foundation staff to learn about evaluating grants, making effective site visits and being an effective volunteer.

How is Social Venture Partners funded year after year?

Each partner contributes a minimum gift of $5,700 each. Funds are pooled and invested in a socially responsible fund administered by A. G. Edwards.

Are there SVPs in other cities?

Yes, there are SVP affiliates in many cities. We share the same name, mission and organizational model along with a set of ten core principles. Other aspects of the organization and implementation of the model are locally determined. See www.svpi.org for links to SVP affiliates in over 20 locations throughout North America and Japan.