Ever wondered how childhood entrepreneurial ventures can shape a successful business career? Join me, Kelly Brothers, as Brad Squires, CEO of Sacramento Venture Philanthropy, shares his transformative journey from a young boy selling mistletoe with his brothers in Woodland, California, to co-founding a global B2B maintenance management software company, Maintenance Connection. Brad's stories offer a nostalgic look at the early lessons he learned, including responsibility and cash flow management, which have profoundly impacted his approach to entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

Discover how Brad's passion for innovation led him to create Sacramento Venture Philanthropy, an organization that applies venture fund principles to support local nonprofits. We explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these nonprofits in the Sacramento region and how initiatives like the Fast Pitch program empower them to effectively communicate their missions and secure vital resources. Brad shares success stories, such as the Food Literacy Center, and discusses how SVP bridges the gap between traditional nonprofit management and rigorous business practices.

Finally, we discuss the importance of community engagement and capacity building, offering insights into how strategic initiatives can bolster nonprofit organizations. Brad introduces us to innovative programs like Think Tankathons and the "five T's" of being a generous partner. We also touch on understanding fiduciary duty in financial advising, highlighting the need for transparency and vigilance when navigating financial services. This episode promises to leave you inspired by Brad's journey and enlightened on the intersection of entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

To learn more about SVP visit: https://www.svpsacramento.org/

For more information on what we provide at CAPTRUST visit www.captrust.com.

You can contact me, Kelly Brothers, through the show at: [email protected]

To reach me at CAPTRUST visit www.captrust.com/locations/sacramento-ca/

Chapter Summaries(00:10) CEO Brad Squires Talks Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneur Brad Squires shares his journey from childhood business to co-founding a successful software company, blending entrepreneurship and philanthropy.

(10:04) Childhood Paper Routes

Nature's unique experiences of running a flower farm business, selling mistletoe, and early entrepreneurial ventures.

(18:28) Venture Philanthropy and Fast Pitch Program

SVP uses venture fund approach to support nonprofits in Sacramento region, bridging gap between traditional management and business practices.

(27:58) Success Stories of Fast Pitch Program

Fast pitch in Sacramento helps organizations articulate their mission, with high-powered partners and volunteer coaches, leading to success stories and collaborations.

(36:56) Community Engagement With Sacramento Nonprofits

SVP provides strategic philanthropy through programs like Fast Pitch and Think Tankathons, emphasizing capacity building and the five T's.

(49:12) Understanding Fiduciary Financial Advisors

Fiduciary duty in financial advising: understanding fees, prioritizing clients' best interests, and transparency in financial arrangements.