ACCESS TO CAPITAL
CATALYTIC CAPITAL LAB
Our research identified significant barriers that limit non-profits’ access to capital. In response, Scale Institute developed and piloted a series of learning workshops to support organizational capacity and strengthen investment readiness.
Piloted over three cohorts, more than 60 organizations participated in a 4-workshop program that covered:
- Social finance and the capital continuum
- Approaching investors
- Understanding capital needs
- Managing risk and growth
The program incorporated a number of resources, case studies, and worksheets to support investment-readiness among participating organizations.

“This course is really beneficial for all leaders of non-profits and social enterprises to navigate the steps towards accessing finance. Historically non-profits are excluded from conversations around finance. One challenge that is frequently raised is that non-profits don’t have the internal business acumen to navigate accessing capital. This course demystifies the process from beginning to end and explains the steps needed to be ready to access capital.” – Workshop Participant
RESOURCES AND TEMPLATES
- Barriers to Financing Report
- Investment Readiness Self-Assessment Tool
- Innovative Finance Playbook
- Pitch Deck Example
- Deal Room Checklist
- Deal Room Example
- Social Enterprise Structures
- Cash Flow Template
- Financial Modelling Template
- Risk Assessment Tool
- Social Finance Case Studies
- Session Slides and Recordings





