Philosophy & Process

Building Stronger Nonprofits

SVP believes that stronger management, systems and infrastructure result in nonprofit organizations that are more effective in their program and service delivery. To achieve this, we give more than money. We build long-term strategic relationships with our Investees. With an eye to increasing the capacity of the nonprofit, we provide high-level volunteer or professional assistance, in addition to philanthropic dollars, to meet the distinct needs of each Investee.

SVP provides the expertise of our Partners and professional consultants in the following areas:

• Board Development and Governance
• Leadership Development
• Program Evaluation and Performance Management
• Financial Management 
• Fund Development
• Information Technology
• Marketing, PR and Communications
• Human Resources
• Strategic Planning
• Legal
  

SVP collaborates with organizations that:

• Understand the importance of building internal organizational capacity in order to achieve their mission. 
• Have a long-term vision for the organization’s programs and infrastructure.
• Have the capacity to embrace an SVP partnership, which includes intensive self-assessment and working with volunteer and paid consultants.
• Are committed to using outcomes measurement and evaluation to provide the most effective programs possible. 

The SVP Organizational Capacity Assessment Tool (xls) helps nonprofit organizations evaluate, plan and prioritize how to strengthen their organization.

Building Better Philanthropists

In addition to their annual gifts, many of our Partners volunteer for the organizations that SVP supports. From developing websites to writing marketing plans and offering legal advice, Partners contribute their time and expertise in countless ways.
 

A Mutually Beneficial Relationship

By working together, our Investees and Partners develop a unique mutually beneficial relationship. Our Investees gain from the valuable expertise, guidance and mentorship of our Partners. In return, the experience allows our Partners to gain rich insight into community issues and the nonprofit sector, and develop a deep connection to the Investee and to the entire community.
 

Learn more about the SVP Capacity Building Model