Partners' Work is the Heart of SVPRI!

SVPRI is Partner-driven. In addition to the financial investment, Partners are asked to make an in-kind contribution, sharing their experience and abilities by participating on an Engagement Team.

An Engagement Team typically consists of 3 to 8 Partners assigned to a particular nonprofit organization (we call them Investees). Once the needs of each Investee are defined, SVPRI will identify appropriate Partners to form the Engagement Team. A Lead Partner is identified to serve as the liaison between SVPRI and the investee, as well as the contact person for the Engagement Team Members. In some cases, Partners on the Engagement Team will be involved in short-term projects, while others will remain involved through an entire multi-year engagement.

In addition to the Engagement Team, SVPRI provides each Investee with extended support by connecting them with consultants and other organizations in the community that could provide services or resources to facilitate the launch of their social enterprise.

Understanding the SVPRI Approach

SVPRI's model is not appropriate or desirable for all nonprofits. Some organizations will not want or need the combination of money and hands-on expertise. Most nonprofits are not accustomed to such an engaged approach from a funder or to a funder involved in such a hands-on way. It takes considerable time and effort, not only from SVPRI, but also from the Investee, to develop:

• An understanding of SVPRI's approach and how to effectively poartner with and use SVPRI's resources.
• A level of trust with SVPRI that enables collaboration to address core problems and organizational needs, and
• A mechanism for educating SVPRI Partners, as needed, about their organization so that volunteers can effectively carry out their work.

The investee must be willing and able to spend the time and resources to receive the benefits.