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Social Innovator Accelerator 

Accepting applications now until July 26, 2023! 

 

The Social Innovation Forum (SIF) is looking to welcome eight impactful, grassroots nonprofits into this upcoming year's Social Innovator Accelerator program. SIF creates positive social change in Eastern Massachusetts by engaging leaders, strengthening organizations, and building networks.

 

About the Social Innovator Accelerator

 The Social Innovator Accelerator helps nonprofit organizations gain visibility, expand their networks, and connect with philanthropic and in-kind resources to accelerate their work.

 Each selected organization, a Social Innovator, receives access to cash and in-kind benefits that include:

  • Six months of consulting services focused on developing written materials, visual materials, and presentation skills for a funder/investor audience.

  • Presentation and networking opportunities with funders/investors, including at the Social Innovator Showcase in May 2024

  • Membership in a cohort with other grassroots nonprofit leaders

  • Five months of executive coaching to focus on promoting professional growth for the leadership team

  • $30,000 cash upon completion of the consulting engagement

  • Support from SIF’s in-kind partners (e.g., legal, graphic design, PR, technology)

  • Ongoing support through the Social Innovator Accelerator Alumni program

Who would be involved: 

  • 1 “lead” Innovator (typically Executive Director or Program Director)

  • Optional: 1-3 other staff to support decision making on materials and participate in executive coaching 

 Time commitment: 

  • This is a two year capacity building program (Launching in December 2023 - closing in December 2025)

    • 6-8 hours per week from December 2023 - May 2024

    • 6-8 hours per month from September 2024 - December 2025 

Does this sound like something your organization would benefit from?

Check out our Applicant Guide where you’ll learn more about:

  • 2024 Social Issue Areas 
  • Eligibility Requirements and the Social Innovator Profile
  • Application & Selection Process Timeline 
  • First Round Application Questions

Interested in Applying?

  • Step 1: Review the Applicant Guide to confirm eligibility

  • Step 2: Attend an information session and/or set up a call with our Program team

  • Step 3: Complete a first round application by creating an account here. 

Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until Wednesday, July 19, at 5:00 pm; however, early submissions are highly encouraged.

  • We will select one nonprofit on each of the eight social issue tracks. The Social Innovator Accelerator selection process is very competitive, and demand far outpaces available resources. Each year we receive an average of 60 applications and select eight Social Innovators.

Questions?
Feel free to give us a call at 978.344.2622 or send our team an email at accelerator@socialinnovationforum.org for any questions about the application process.