The Greater Sum Pitch Competition – FAQ
General Overview
What is The Greater Sum's Pitch Competition?
An annual opportunity for eligible graduates of The Greater Sum’s Virtual Incubator Program to submit a pitch for additional funding, receive expert feedback, and increase their visibility with funders. The competition helps alumni sharpen their messaging and prepare for real-world fundraising.
Who is eligible to participate?
Only alumni of the Virtual Incubator Program who have not previously won a pitch prize or been selected for the fundraising accelerator are eligible to apply.
Why that restriction?
We want to expand opportunities to more alumni by prioritizing organizations that haven’t yet received post-incubator support from The Greater Sum.
First Round: Fast Pitch
What is the Fast Pitch?
The first round is a 2-minute video pitch, submitted asynchronously.
What’s the benefit of participating?
Every pitch receives written feedback from multiple reviewers, including funders, nonprofit peers, and subject matter experts. Many alumni say the feedback is just as valuable as the funding.
Do I need a professionally produced video?
Not at all. Clear, concise content is what matters most. Authenticity beats production value.
Where can I find guidance?
Tips and examples, including how to structure your message and what reviewers look for, are available in the Pitching Module of the Virtual Incubator Course in The Foundry.
Finalist Round
What happens if I’m selected as a finalist?
Finalists receive:
A $250 mini-grant
Personalized pitch coaching
Support to develop a full pitch deck
A live Q&A session with a panel of judges
🏆What are the top prizes?
1st Place: $10,000 grant
2nd Place: $3,000 grant
3rd Place: $1,000 grant
Fundraising Accelerator
What is the fundraising accelerator?
A follow-on training program focused on digital fundraising strategy and execution.
Do all pitch competition finalists get in?
No. Invitations are extended after the final round based on pitch quality, Q&A performance, and readiness to engage in fundraising work.
What’s the benefit of the accelerator?
Participants receive support in designing a mini online campaign and are eligible for up to $5,000 in matching funds per organization during the campaign.
Timing & Process
When does the competition happen?
The process typically begins in June and wraps up later in the year. All key dates and deadlines are shared directly with eligible alumni.
How are participants selected?
Fast Pitch Round: Scored on clarity, mission alignment, and potential
Final Round: Judged on pitch deck quality, Q&A performance, and alignment with follow-on opportunities
*All applicants receive helpful feedback.
Other Questions
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The competition and accelerator are fully funded by The Greater Sum.
Can more than one team member present the pitch?
Yes. One person should lead the live Q&A, but collaboration is welcome.
Can I apply again if I didn’t win in a previous year?
Yes! If you’re an alum who has not yet won a pitch prize or been selected for the accelerator, you're welcome to reapply with an updated pitch or new plans.
