Do you have a transformative vision for your nonprofit? Here's your chance to turn that big idea into reality! Our exclusive pitch competition connects passionate nonprofit leaders with committed philanthropists in an exciting, high-energy format that could change everything for your organization.
Your Path to Success: 4 Strategic Steps
From registration to walking away with funding, we've designed a comprehensive process with four strategic steps that maximizes your chances of success. Each step builds toward the ultimate goal: securing the resources you need to amplify your nonprofit's impact.
01
Optional Prep Session
Join us at 9:30 AM for expert coaching on elevator pitches. Our seasoned mentors will help you refine your message, practice your delivery, and boost your confidence before the main event.
02
The 2-Minute Pitch
Your moment to shine! Present your nonprofit's vision directly to a philanthropist in a focused, impactful 2-minute presentation that could open doors to transformative funding opportunities.
03
Private One-on-One Meetings
The top candidates get exclusive 15 minute private sessions with philanthropists. These intimate conversations allow you to dive deeper into your vision and build meaningful relationships.
04
Finals – Live on Stage
A panel featuring a conversation with four leading philanthropists who are actively shaping the nonprofit landscape. They will share insights into their giving philosophy, discuss trends in philanthropy, and offer advice to organizations seeking to make a greater impact. Immediately following the panel, the recipients of the $10,000 grants will be announced and awarded.
Meet Our Sharks
1
Daniel Goldman
Daniel Goldman is a prominent Jewish philanthropist and social activist, founding partner of Goldrock Capital, founder of the Institute for Jewish and Zionist Research, and former chairman of both Gesher and World Bnei Akiva. He co-chairs the Coalition for Haredi Employment, is involved with Charedi Impact Philanthropy and the ICAR Collective, and is recognized for advancing unity, opportunity, and mental health across Israeli society. Daniel also has a regular column in the Jerusalem Post and writes in other leading Israeli publications on questions of Israeli society.
2
David Siegel
David Siegel is the recent CEO of Meetup, the largest platform for finding and building local community. He has had 2 exits over the last 6 years where he drove investor returns at the sale of 5x and 7x. He has over 25 years of experience as a technology executive leading organizations through innovative product development, rapid revenue growth and traffic acceleration. Prior to joining Meetup, David was CEO of Investopedia and before that, President of Seeking Alpha. David holds a BA in Philosophy, Politics & Economics and an MBA from Wharton. He is a leadership professor at Columbia University where he teaches strategic planning and entrepreneurship. He was host of the podcast, Keep Connected, a top 2% ranked global podcast, author of Decide & Conquer, a March 2022 Porchlight bestselling leadership book and founder of the Israel Tech Mission. He now serves as a CEO coach, advisor or board member to over a dozen global tech companies.
3
Naomi Kovitz
Naomi Kovitz is the COO of the Yael Foundation which is a philanthropic fund driven by the conviction that all Jewish children, irrespective of their geographic location or community size, should have access to high-quality Jewish and general education. The Yael Foundation nurtures and expands accessible, high-quality educational opportunities to Jewish children globally.
4
Shawna Goodman Sone
Shawna Goodman Sone is a graduate of McGill University, where she received the Scarlet Key for outstanding leadership. She also trained at the Natural Gourmet Cooking School and the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. Now based in Ra’anana with her husband Todd and their three sons, Shawna combines her passions for food and philanthropy through leadership and innovation. She chairs the Morris and Rosalind Goodman Family Foundation, founded Summer Camp Israel, and serves on the boards of the Jewish Funders Network, the Foundation for Jewish Camp, and M2. Since 2020, her online cooking courses have engaged thousands worldwide, raising funds and awareness for diverse causes. She is also the editor of Panache: Montreal’s Flair for Kosher Cooking and leads Shefa, an annual women’s tour that inspires deeper connections with Israel.