The only local accelerator
designed specifically for nonprofits.
The Project XLR8
2026-2027 Application is now Open!
Click here to access the application.
Click here to view a PDF of the application questions.
Applications are due by Friday, October 16 at midnight.
We invite established organizations who have a socially innovative idea/initiative and are a 501(c)(3) or fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3) to apply for Project XLR8. Organizations applying should have the following:
1) Active programs or services
2) Identified organizational leadership
3) An active governing board
4) Basic financial and operational systems
5) Sufficient capacity to participate fully in Project XLR8 and act on the support provided.
The socially innovative idea/initiative may involve a specific strategic challenge, growth opportunity, or new initiative to strengthen, expand, or advance existing work. Applicants should be able to clearly describe the opportunity or problem the idea/initiative addresses, the progress made to date, and the key challenges to moving it forward.
Questions about Project XLR8 and the Application?
Join us over Zoom for a short Project XLR8 Community Information Session on either Wednesday, September 23 at Noon or Tuesday, September 29 at Noon.
Click here to register for one of the Zoom Information Sessions.
Questions? Contact kelly@svpcincinnati.org.
Phase 1—EXPLORE
Four to Ten NONPROFITS CHOSEN
Partners coach nonprofits to shape and sharpen their ideas using the Fast Pitch method. Through group sessions and direct feedback, ideas/initiatives are clarified, tested, and strengthened; a value proposition is also developed. This phase concludes with a Concept Reveal Event, where nonprofits receive a grant and present to Partners and then a cohort moves forward.
Phase 2—LIFT
Two to SIX NONPROFITS ADVANCE
Partners work alongside nonprofits to strengthen their ideas — analyzing the competitive landscape, and reviewing finances and fundraising strategy. This phase ends with the Idea Exposition Event, where all nonprofits receive a grant and one nonprofit is selected as the Investee.
Phase 3—REALIZE
One INVESTEE SELECTED
Partner teams help the selected nonprofit launch and scale their idea. SVP invests up to $20,000 per year for two to three years (up to $60,000 total), paired with hands-on support across strategy, finance, communications, and operation
Why It Works
Project XLR8 isn't a grant competition — it's a partnership. Every phase is designed to build capacity and fund innovative ideas, so the nonprofits we invest in are stronger, sharper, and ready to deliver real community impact long after the program ends.
SVP believes that socially innovative ideas/initiatives can change the world. Innovative ideas/initiatives enhance opportunity, create effective, sustainable and just solutions to our society’s challenges, and reflect the lived experience of the people it is meant to serve.