Social Venture Partners of Sacramento (SVP) is accepting applications for its 2015 Social Innovation Fast Pitch Event. SVP is a network of engaged philanthropists focused on improving and funding educational programs in the Sacramento area.

The SVP Sacramento Fast Pitch is a 2-month training and mentoring program for innovative nonprofits in education. Fast Pitch brings to Sacramento a venture capital-like “pitch stage” in which innovative nonprofits focused on improving regional educational outcomes share their stories, strategies and growth plans. This event is different than a traditional grant cycle. Instead of SVP only supporting its final selected investee, organizers receive additional support and learn strategic plans to grow their nonprofit.

“Fast Pitch is a chance for innovative area nonprofits to refine and tell their story,” SVP Sacramento Executive Director Bree Cahill explains, “Not only will the final event take place in front of an audience of Sacramento area investors, philanthropists and business leaders, but all participants will receive one-on-one support to refine their pitch. Fast Pitch is structured to build the capacity of all nonprofits involved, and we are excited to bring this innovative event to this region.”

The event begins in October, with a 4-month, capacity-building process aimed at improving nonprofit participants’ strategic messaging and culminates with a final pitch event in March 2015. The 12 to 16 nonprofits selected to participate will receive a 30-second commercial-quality ad as well as one-to-one mentoring and group pitch sessions conducted with executives and marketing experts. During the final pitch event, organizations have the opportunity to win additional support.

Nonprofits interested in applying for the 2015 Fast Pitch have until October 3rd to enter and can complete the application on the Sacramento Region Community Foundation website. Sponsorship inquiries and companies or individuals interested in participating as mentors are encouraged to contact SVP Sacramento at admin@SVPSacramento.org.