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YOUTH VOICE INITIATIVE

Watch Ellen Walthour along with winners Emmanuel Edebiri & Pratishtha Praveen Kumar

SVP MN is committed to including youth voice into all of our programs and decision-making processes. We believe that to be an authentic leader in supporting under-resourced youth in the Twin Cities, we must center youth voice and hold the space for their leadership, perspectives and lived experiences to help guide SVP’s strategic direction. See previous winners.

Our 2024 YouthSparks Competition
is now accepting applications.

Are you a young person who is 12-24 years old?
Do you have an innovative idea that will improve our world? 
An idea that will positively impact youth? An idea that will help change your community?

APPLY HERE

Then this SVP YouthSparks Ideas Competition is for you!

We are looking for good ideas and we know YOU have them. Start thinking about an innovative idea you would want to share with others. This could be a program, a product, a service or another activity that will help create positive change. We are looking for ideas from youth in the Twin Cities Metro Area to share their great ideas!

Applications are due September 1st and include a short video submission and a short description of your idea. We are encouraging early submissions and we will only be accepting the first 100 submissions. Application can be found here.

Finalists will be featured at our Annual Together for Good Celebration of Giving & Gratitude on April 17th, 2025.

Finalists will receive a $500 award to further their education and to encourage more great ideas!

Social Venture Partners MN believes in the power of youth voices. We know young people will help to spark all of our imaginations and inspire us to think more about what is possible!

This program is supported by a grant from HB Fuller and funding from Partners in SVP MN.  Want to learn more about becoming a Partner? Learn more here!

Questions? Contact SVP MN Interim Executive Director, Ellen Walthour 612-483-0167, [email protected]

APPLY HERE
Apply Now!

2023 GRANT CYCLE
is open!
All applications due July 20th at 5 PM.

LEARN MORE >>

Social Venture Partners “Together for Good” Cohort

The word "philanthropy" is rooted in the Greek words for "love" and "mankind" or "humanity." So a philanthropist is someone who acts out of love for humanity. But what does it personally mean to you?

We invite you to be part of a dynamic, six-month cohort designed to deepen your giving, expand your impact, and connect you with a network of passionate change makers. Through structured monthly sessions, you’ll:

  • Clarify Your Giving Approach – Explore your values and how they shape your giving.
  • Engage with Nonprofit Leaders – Learn from experts in social justice, youth initiatives, and trust-based philanthropy.
  • Gain Hands-On Grant making Experience – Collaborate with peers to distribute funds to youth serving organizations.
  • Build Meaningful Relationships – Connect with fellow philanthropists, SVP partners, and local leaders.

Each session includes inspiring speakers, guided discussions, and reflection time—all hosted at The Minneapolis Club with complimentary parking and access.

💰SVP 2026 Cohort Investment: $3,000 per person—$2,500 of which goes directly into a collective giving pool for local youth-serving nonprofits.

🌟 Special Offer: Sign up with a friend, and you both can join for $4,000 total. If the cost feels like a barrier please know SVPMN has scholarships available to support you on your journey. Reach out to us to learn more!

What You’ll Walk Away With:

  • Confidence and connections to navigate the social impact sector
  • Deeper pride as a community member
  • A clear vision of where to give your time, talent, and treasure

Ready to sign up to learn more? Please complete this form and SVP will contact you to set up time to answer your questions and discuss payment options. Please note- this form does not lock you in. Let's talk. We want to know what is moving you to consider joining.

Need more information?

Download TOGETHER FOR GOOD brochure
Download TOGETHER FOR GOOD bookmark