YP Accelerator Program

 

The Philanthropy Connection established its Young Philanthropist Accelerator Program in 2026! We are excited to offer this new path to meet the needs of young women who want a dynamic and engaging experience that goes beyond joining as a general member, even if they may not yet be ready for the deeper organizational commitment that accompanies our Fellowship Program. 

The format of the Accelerator Program delivers opportunities for mentorship, exclusive channels for connection with fellow YPs and seasoned members, and skill development that helps accelerate toward professional goals. This program also offers a strong foundation for understanding the nonprofit landscape in Massachusetts, and the realities of nonprofit management.

Interested participants should apply to the program via this link. The application will close on Sunday, June 21, 2026. To preview the 2026 application, click here.

If not already a member, selected participants must complete their enrollment by activating a TPC membership reflected here. For prospective applicants who desire flexible options, TPC offers quarterly payments, and also allows for employers or donors to sponsor membership!

Benefits for 2026-2027 YP Accelerator Program:

  • Earn access to list of members who are open to mentorship
  • Work alongside TPC’s Fellows during August Skillsbuilding Session
  • Gain firsthand insight into nonprofit Board governance
  • Receive formal recognition on TPC’s website
  • Experience unique grantmaking opportunity for TPC’s 15-year anniversary
  • Deepen bonds with local professionals during YP-specific events throughout the year
  • Participate in TPC’s in-person and virtual social or education events
  • Acquire an “Accelerator” badge for LinkedIn (If certain tasks completed)
  • Engage in TPC’s voting process to select the next slate of grantees
  • Join TPC’s premier event of the year (TPC’s Grant Celebration)

 

 

Specifications for 2026-2027 YP Accelerator Program:

Required

  • Join as a TPC member to enroll in program if selected;
  • Attend Onboarding Session on Thursday, July 23 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. ET (virtual, required);
  • Participate in August Skillsbuilding Session on Wednesday, August 12, 2026 from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. ET (virtual, required);
  • Serve on a Grant Team (10-15 total hours between January and April 2027; required)
  • Vote for TPC’s next grantees in May (required)
  • Attend Grant Awards celebration (typically held on an evening in June; required)

Optional

  • Meet other Accelerators at a Summer Mixer (date and location TBD, optional)  
  • Attend New Member Orientation (date and location TBD, optional)
  • Complete October Leadership Exercise (optional)
  • Join exclusive Board Meeting Sit-In Opportunity on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 from 6:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. ET (virtual, optional)
  • Pursue a meeting with a prospective mentor in November (optional)
  • Attend Coffee Shop Social with Fellows and Accelerators on Saturday, December 5, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. (in-person, optional)
  • Participate in unique grantmaking opportunity alongside Fellows and Accelerators