In an effort to support social entrepreneurs tackling some of this city’s toughest problems, and to contribute to the innovative, vibrant culture in the Los Angeles area, Los Angeles Social Venture Partners (LASVP), the Social Enterprise Institute (SEI), and, on behalf of the University of Southern California, the USC Stevens Institute for Innovation (USC Stevens) have partnered to produce the annual “Social Innovation ‘Fast Pitch’ and Showcase.”

The Social Innovation Fast Pitch is a two-month training and mentoring program for innovative nonprofits that are effecting social change in Greater Los Angeles, culminating in the Social Innovation Fast Pitch and Showcase on November 11, 2009.

The goal of the Social Innovation Fast Pitch program is to build the capacity of, and create visibility for, innovative local nonprofits and the social entrepreneurs who lead them. Leaders from 20 organizations will participate in the program, where they will receive training, feedback and mentoring on how to succinctly and powerfully “tell their story.” Through the process, they will also build valuable cross-sector relationships. (Click here to nominate a nonprofit for this year's Social Innovation Fast Pitch.)

At the event, up to 10 finalists will make three-minute “pitches” to a panel of judges and an audience of more than 300 investors, business and nonprofit leaders, and other members of Southern California's entrepreneurial community. Participating nonprofits will compete to win thousands of dollar in funding. Last year’s prize winners include Everyone Deserves a Roof, Environmental Charter High School and Saint Barnabus Senior Services. To watch a highlight reel of last year’s event, see our Home page.

The event also includes a keynote speaker and an interactive discussion of social innovation. Following the formal program, there will be a reception where attendees can interact and network with the presenting organizations to learn more about their mission, needs, and opportunities for support and engagement.

For more information and to nominate a non-profit, check out the Social Innovation Fast Pitch website.