SVP International

 The SVP model was created in 1997 in Seattle, Washington, under the inspiration of Paul Brainerd, Aldus Corporation founder and president. The vision of the founders was to build a philanthropic community using a model that paralleled venture capital practices. This model became known as venture philanthropy as popularized in the 1997 article Virtuous Capital. Key tenets of this approach include long-term financial investments leveraged with “investments” of time, expertise and resources to develop the capacity and sustainability of local nonprofits (grantees).

SVP organizations began developing throughout North America. By 2001, a loose network had formed, and SVP International (SVPI) was created to facilitate the sharing of knowledge and information, and support network growth. Today, this sharing occurs among SVPs throughout the year, as well as at an annual conference that brings together current and potential partners from affiliates across the globe. SVPI also provides individual affilates with technology, resource manuals, and helps to develop and distribute evaluation tools and resources.

As of 2008, there are 26 SVP affiliates throughout the United States, Canada and Tokyo and over 2000 dedicated individuals who combine their professional skills and financial contributions with a passion for philanthropy. Since its formation in 1997, the SVP network has contributed more than $26.5 million in grant investments to more than 300 promising nonprofit organizations, with over 250,000 hours volunteered.

To learn about starting an SVP affiliate in your city or for more information on Social Venture Partners, please visit Social Venture Partners International at www.svpi.org.