Initiated by the Foundation in 2000 to foster a new entrepreneurial approach to philanthropy, investment, and volunteerism in the Rhode Island nonprofit community, Social Venture Partners today focuses on advancing the nonprofit sector and effecting social change.

This work is accomplished by a collaborative of experienced business leaders and other professionals who help nonprofits develop "social enterprises". These may reflect the organization's mission or simply be an opportunity for the agency to raise operating capital apart from traditional funding sources.

Among SVPRI’s services are:

• Workshops for nonprofits on how to develop revenue-producing enterprises
• Monthly brainstorming meetings between social enterprise managers and SVPRI partners
• An alliance with University of Rhode Island MBA candidates who help nonprofits develop full-fledged feasibility studies and business plans
• Operating loans for nonprofits.

Learn more about Social Venture Partners of Rhode Island.