Batter up

Philanthropitch, an annual “fast-pitch” that helps innovative nonprofits scale into sustainable models, has partnered with United Way of Greater Austin to award $50,000 total to five nonprofits focused on fighting poverty in Austin. The five groups – Thinkery, Latinitas, Open Door, Foundation Communities, and Avance – will begin three one-week “Click for the Cause” social media campaigns beginning April 7, with each week’s winner collecting $5,000 and the overall winner receiving $35,000 at the May 8 finals and awards ceremony. That partnership is in addition to a recently announced sponsorship from St. David’s Foundation, which is providing $50,000 to the winners of a new health-specific track aimed at addressing factors outside of the traditional health care system that affect wellness and health. This year’s competition generated 45 applicants for $250,000 in funding, with 13 finalists selected to move and make their pitch for funding.