SVP Seattle’s signature program supporting small, BIPOC-led nonprofits
GrowFundMe is a six-month learning cohort where nonprofit leaders build fundraising and storytelling skills alongside SVP Partners and community volunteers who contribute their time, talent, and connections. The program culminates in a public Stories of Impact Showcase that brings nonprofits together with 100–150 community and business leaders, where pooled funds are distributed equally among cohort organizations.
Program Highlights
- 6–8 BIPOC-led nonprofits (typically with annual budgets under $500K)
- 12–20 SVP Partners & volunteers engaged as thought partners and reviewers
- Six-month cohort (Jan–Jun 2026)
- Culminates in the Stories of Impact Showcase celebrating community innovation, where all proceeds are shared equally between participating nonprofits
Why GrowFundMe?
Across King County, small, BIPOC-led nonprofits are tackling urgent challenges but receive only a fraction of available funding and visibility. GrowFundMe invests in capacity, connection, and collective learning by:
- Strengthening fundraising and storytelling
- Expanding networks between nonprofits, funders, and allies
- Modeling equity-centered philanthropy
- Mobilizing new funding for grassroots organizations
What the Six Months Look Like
- Kickoff & Goal Setting (January): Trust-building, introductions, and fundraising fundamentals
- Workshops (Feb–Apr): Fundraising, case-making, and storytelling with expert instructors
- Thought Partnership: Monthly check-ins between nonprofits and SVP Partners/volunteers
- Showcase Prep (May): Presentation coaching and practice
- Stories of Impact Showcase (June): Nonprofits present to 100–150 community and business leaders; pooled funds distributed equally
2026 Goals
- Direct $25,000 – $50,000 in new funding to small, BIPOC-led nonprofits
- Engage 20+ SVP Partners and community volunteers in equity-centered giving
- Build a network of changemakers advancing justice and sustainability across King County
Apply
For Nonprofits: Designed for small, BIPOC-led organizations ready to grow fundraising capacity and visibility.
For Volunteers: Share your skills in fundraising, communications, storytelling, design, or org development. Typical time: 2–3 hours/month.
Sponsor the Change
Sponsors underwrite cohort workshops, coaching, and the Stories of Impact Showcase—and can engage employees as skilled volunteers.
- Recognition in GrowFundMe materials and events
- Opportunities to connect with cohort leaders
- Invitations to the Showcase and learning sessions
Questions?
Gillia Bakie, Senior Advisor, Development — gilliab@svpseattle.org
SVP Seattle — info@svpseattle.org