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From Idea to Implementation
Stages of Launch
It takes a community to launch something meaningful. SWGP Collaborative Giving Funds aren’t built in isolation—they’re shaped by friends, partners, and Faith Driven families who commit early, stay engaged, and grow the vision together.
We believe in open hands and open communication. That’s why we share where each fund is in its lifecycle—from early-stage exploration to scalable impact.
Each SWGP Fund progresses through three distinct stages—Lab, Beta, and Scale—with each stage building on the last to increase impact, refine strategy, and strengthen partnerships.
Side by Side
What each stage looks like
Annual Commitments
The Stage
Early formation. High conviction. Humble beginnings. Using finance terms, in many ways moving from an era of stock-picking to an ETF. Access to “deal flow” of giving opportunities that 95% of the Church might not be familiar with or aware of how they might complement each other.
Momentum is building. Collaboration is taking shape. Problems are being identified, collaborations are forming, and moonshots are being explored. In many ways, this stage is similar to moving to a Managed Charitable Fund.
Ready to run. Built to last. Clear Working Theory of Change and application. Data is driving reinforcing activities. Moving to a place of paying by output. Moonshots are taking off.
Leadership
Formed Investment Committee
3–7 members committed to Fund leadership, helping shape strategy and scale.
Active Investment Committee + Fund Manager
Regular rhythms of collaboration with early partners and grantees are forming.
Formed Advisory Council
Supports the Investment Committee and Fund Manager in understanding the problem, refining strategy, and executing the fund’s vision.
Investment Committee and Advisory Board Growth
Governing and advisory boards are expanded, with advisors taking on unique strategic roles.
Strategy & Diligence
Strategy, Potential Grants Identified & Diligence Begins
A pipeline of faith-led ministries and ventures is emerging. Relationship-building and initial diligence are underway for each opportunity.
Refined Strategy and Grant Flow
Opportunities are evaluated for greatest impact, and relationships deepen.
Due Diligence Executed
Conducted based on the type and size of capital deployed and the size, type, and location of each organization. Additional diligence partners are onboarded as needed.
Refined Strategy & New Grant Flow
Innovative opportunities are incubated and accelerated, building on prior learnings.
Due Diligence & Market Alignment
Wins validate the Theory of Change, and additional capital is aligned with strategy to maximize impact.
Research & Impact
Research Underway
A Theory of Change and draft Fund Strategies are in development. Early metrics for impact and progress are being established.
Research in Motion
Testing and validating the Theory of Change continues, informing strategy refinement.
Impact Reporting Plan Established
Metrics are finalized, and a plan for delivering qualitative and quantitative reports to Fund Supporters is implemented.
Research + Results
Longitudinal studies and data partnerships track outcomes and inform ongoing strategy. Metrics are reported on a regular cadence.
Data-Driven Optimization
Real-time dashboards guide capital deployment, and strategy is continuously adjusted based on outcomes, trends, and learnings.
Deploying Funds
Funds Deployment / Execution
Early small pilot allocations may begin, as opportunities are validated.
Funds Deployed
The first set of funds are deployed.
Scheduled Deployment of Funds
With a stable inflow of capital, Fund Managers and the Investment Committee deploy funds regularly while seeking opportunities to maximize impact.
Stories & Outreach
Story Capture Begins
The problem (“villain”) is clear, and we’re beginning to film the solution stories.
Virtual Convenings Ignite Collaboration
Supporters come together online to engage with the Mission and learn about early opportunities.
Content Begins to Launch
Stories, successes, and strategic vision are shared with supporters and early partners.
Storytelling & Outreach
Content is amplified through partnerships with pastors, influencers, and authentic networks to inspire broader engagement.
Influencer Campaigns & Widespread Distribution
The fund reaches a broader audience through key partners, influencers, and digital platforms.
Innovation & Partnerships
Begins at Scale
Begins at Scale
Innovation & Incubation
New ventures and pilot programs are launched based on lessons learned from prior stages.
Public/Private Partnerships
Alliances are formed to scale impact further and tackle systemic challenges.
Financial Accountability
Financial Oversight
Transparency and reporting processes are established to ensure accountability.
Financial Review
Annual independent financial review begins.
Financial Review & Audits
Annual independent financial reviews and third-party audits ensure accountability and transparency.
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