The Votes Are In!
2023 Readers' Choice is back, bigger and better than ever!
View Winners → 
Movements Sep 29, 2020
by
share with
This post has been updated to clarify the work of SVP affiliates within the international network. Sudha Nandagopal has worn many hats in environmental and social movements over the years. As a public servant, she oversaw a groundbreaking environmental-justice initiative for the city of Seattle — which landed her on the Grist 50 in 2016 . These days, Nandagopal is focused on a key element of any movement for change: the flow of money. As the CEO of Social Venture Partners International (SVPI), Nandagopal leads a global network of donors and nonprofit organizations, with over 40 affiliates in eight countries. The group goes beyond just drumming up cash: To invest in the long-term sustainability of nonprofits and socially-minded companies, SVP affiliates educate philanthropists on strategic, effective giving. They also help their local partner organizations with pro bono consultation on goal-setting, capacity-building, and generating resources for the long haul. Nandagopal spoke to Fix about the potential for philanthropy to spur change — through funding, yes, but also by shifting entire power structures. Her comments have been edited for length and clarity. It’s the economy, smartypants From my earliest days of doing work in social change, I’ve had to raise money. […]
