Six nonprofits are gearing up to take the stage at the second annual Philanthropitch Columbus presented by the American Electric Power Foundation on Tuesday, March 3. The social fast pitch competition helps nonprofits accelerate their impact and fund initiatives not supported by traditional grants by providing unrestricted capital and access to in-kind services.
Addressing food insecurity to early childhood education, this year’s finalists include:
- Bridgeway Academy
- Buddy Up Tennis
- Food Finder
- PCs for People
- South Side Early Learning
- Youth Yoga Project
Bridgeway Academy, South Side Early Learning and the Youth Yoga Project are all Columbus-based non-profits. Buddy Up Tennis and Food Finder are national organizations with programs and resources in Columbus, while PCs for People has a nationwide reach and store in Cleveland, OH. Additionally, a seventh non-profit finalist will be selected from CauseImpact’s 2019 Innovation Catalyst cohort.
During the event, non-profits will have three minutes to pitch followed by three minutes of questions from the judges.
Eight judges representing social entrepreneurs and social impact leaders, to non-profit leaders and community stakeholders have been selected for the competition. This year’s judges include:
- Allen Proctor – President & CEO, SocialVentures
- Brett Kaufman – Founder & CEO, Kaufman Development
- Kristy Campbell – Chief Operating Officer, Rev1 Ventures
- Lauren Edwards – Principal/Owner, Next Step Business Consulting
- Lisa Courtice – President & CEO, United Way of Central Ohio
- Madison Mikhail Bush – Founder & CEO, POINT
- Matt Miller – Partner, Ice Miller LLP
- Ryan Frederick – Principal, AWH
Each judge contributes their own money, and instead of selecting first, second or third place winners, determines how it should be distributed among the finalists. Non-profits may also receive additional funds from corporate sponsorships, individual donors and audience awards.
Philanthropitch Columbus will be held on Tuesday, March 3 at 6 p.m. at Davidson Theatre, 77 S. High St. VIP tickets are $50 and general admission $25.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit philanthropitch.org/columbus.