Social Venture Partners Seattle is a community of Partners who give, volunteer, learn and act together for a just and equitable King County. The first SVP was founded in Seattle in 1997 by Paul Brainerd with local business leaders, and the model has since spread to other cities.
Who it's actually for
People who want their giving to be collective and close to home. Partners pool money and lend skills, time and networks to community-led nonprofits, with a focus on building the capacity of BIPOC-led organizations. SVP says it centers Black, Brown and Indigenous communities.
You do not need to be wealthy to join; SVP asks for a personally significant gift and names the barrier its average gift can create.
It is a weaker fit if you want hands-on neighborhood volunteering without a giving commitment. Sustainable Ballard is all volunteer and open to any level of time.
What they run
Pooled philanthropy and direct giving, grantmaking committees and giving circles, skilled volunteering, advocacy, and learning sessions. Recent events include Reciprocity Rings, where participants trade asks and offers; a two-part virtual series on using AI in nonprofits; a Purposeful Philanthropy Cohort; and a docuseries premiere at SIFF Cinema Downtown.
What it costs
SVP asks Partners to give based on their resources. The become a partner page gives a suggested average of $5,000 a year (about $420 a month) and says some Partners give 3 to 10 percent of income, while others start smaller and grow. Joining involves an info session, a conversation with staff or board, and a New Partner Form. The info session's event page lists no cost.
Where
Most programs meet in Seattle or online. The Reciprocity Ring meets at Byrd Barr Place, 722 18th Avenue. SVP does not publish an office address.
How to start
Attend a virtual New Partner Info Session on Tuesday, November 17, from noon to 1 pm, with Executive Director Emiko Atherton. Register through the form on the event page.
Links
svpseattle.org · Events calendar · Become a Partner · Volunteering
Last verified: October 2026.
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