About The Pitch
The Pitch is an exciting initiative designed to help local nonprofits refine their message, amplify their impact, and connect with key supporters. This three-month coaching experience provides nonprofit leaders with expert coaching, strategic insight, and a dynamic platform to elevate their mission. Cohort participants receive professional coaching to develop a clear organizational pitch, gain increased visibility and connections, and build the capacity needed to sustain long-term growth.
The program culminates in a high-energy pitch event in November. Finalists deliver a powerful 3-minute presentation in front of a live audience and a panel of judges. Judges evaluate each pitch using a standardized rubric, and monetary awards are presented to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners.
How It Works
Nonprofit organizations serving needs in San Luis Obispo County are invited to apply. From the applicant pool, 10 nonprofit organizations will be selected to participate. Of the cohort, 6 organizations will be chosen as finalists and will present at The Pitch event. Organizations that are not selected as finalists will still be represented at the event and included in event collateral.
Each participating nonprofit organization is be paired with 2 coaches. From August through November, participating nonprofits will attend group training sessions.
The Pitch is the culmination of months of preparation where finalists present a refined 3-minute pitch. Audience members have the opportunity to donate directly to participating nonprofit organizations, and judges award 1st, 2nd and 3rd place cash awards.
To Apply
Applications for 2026 The Pitch are available. We encourage non-profit organizations serving San Luis Obispo County to complete the application, which should take no longer than 60 minutes to complete.
Applications are due April 9th. Organizations applying must be a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Click Here to Apply
Program Guide
The Pitch's Program Guide provides additional details on timelines, session overviews, important dates, and expectations. Also included is the scoring sheet judges use. For coaches and participants alike, the Program Guide offers insight into the exciting and innovation program.
2026 Program GuideSponsorship Opportunities
The Pitch provides a unique opportunity for forward-thinking businesses to support and strengthen the non-profit sector in our community. Through a strategic partnership with Must! Charities, sponsors will support a proactive approach to organizations' strategic marketing efforts while also benefiting from a robust benefit package.
For More Information
Communications about session and event details, clarification on program overview, and sponsorship may be directed to Kyle Flaherty at kyle@mustcharities.org or 805.286.1879.
The Pitch Committee
Jacob Allred, SCADA • Lori Bickel, Community Member • Morgan Voss, JB Dewar • Courtney McKeever, Whitney, Thompson & Jeffcoach LLP • Kelly Pope, Community Member