Our Commitment
SVPRI Investees are tax-exempt, charitable, not-for-profit organizations who have launched or are interested in launching social enterprises - related business ventures that provide new revenue streams to the non-profit and some form of "double bottom line impact,” such as workforce development or environmental development.
SVPRI supports organizations that:
• Address a critical social problem and demonstrate an innovative approach to accomplishing change
• Are seeking to launch, expand or replicate an innovative program
• Will make use of and interact with SVP's volunteer and professional resources
• Have a long-term perspective on their organization's impact
• Are willing to evaluate their programs and measure their outcomes
• Are community oriented and collaborative, involving volunteers and other organizations and coordinating their services with others serving the same or similar population
SVPRI selects only those organizations that welcome hands-on involvement (guidance and facilitation) by SVPRI partners. SVPRI funds organizations with strong leadership and clear strategic vision, where we can contribute to the organization's success by supplying an infusion of human and financial resources.
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 non-profits are not accustomed to such an engaged approach from a funder or to a funder involved in such a hands-on way. Our Investees routinely tell us that the value of the time our Partners commit far exceed any financial contribution they receive. 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 partner 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.