SWAP operates through cohorts—small groups of nonprofits that move through a structured exchange process [EPISODE) together. Here’s how it begins:

1. Cohorts Form
   Nonprofits are grouped into a cohort based on mission, timing, capacity, and readiness.

2. Share General Information About Your Organization
   Each organization shares a brief overview of who they are, what they do, and what resources they can offer or need.

3. Register on the SWAP Hub [instruction one pager link here]

4. Sign a Collaborative Agreement
   All participants agree to shared values, expectations, and participation guidelines to ensure a respectful and productive experience for everyone.

Once your cohort is formed and oriented, you’ll begin participating in SWAP Episodes.

An Episode is one complete cycle of sharing and exchanging resources within your cohort. Each Episode has four parts:

1. Pre-Episode Resource Identifying

Organizations identify:

• What they can offer (skills, space, equipment, time, expertise, etc.)

• What they need support with

2. Offer Round

Each organization formally posts on the SWAP Hub the resources they are offering to the cohort.

Examples may include:

• Graphic design support

• Event space

• Marketing assistance

• Translation services

• Software training or tips

SWAP generates meaningful, measurable benefits for participating organizations:

• Save Money – Access services and support without cash expenses

• Reduce Waste – Keep usable goods and materials out of landfills

• Access New Talents & Skills – Tap into expertise you don’t have in-house

• Expand Your Resources – Gain access to tools, space, and services shared by others

• Build Mutual Respect & Trust – Strengthen your nonprofit ecosystem through collaboration

• Increase Local Awareness – Learn what other nonprofits in your community do and how they serve

SWAP is grounded in shared values that guide every cohort and exchange:

• Mutual Respect – Every organization’s time, mission, and capacity are valued

• Transparency – Open communication about needs, offerings, and expectations

• Trust – Honest participation and follow-through

• Equity – Every organization has something valuable to contribute

• Collaboration Over Competition

• Community-Centered Impact

Getting started is simple:

1. Watch the Intro Video
   👉 Link to Darren’s SWAP video from the 2024 MANO Conference

2. Fill Out the One-Pager About Your Nonprofit
   This helps the SWAP team understand your organization’s mission, capacity, needs, and offerings.
   👉 (Link to one-pager document)

3. Receive Confirmation from the SWAP Team
   A team member will contact you to confirm:

   • Your participation

   • Which cohort you will join

   • Your projected start date

4. Register on the SWAP Hub
   You’ll receive a link to officially register on the platform.

5. Attend a Zoom Demo & Practice Session
   You’ll walk through:

   • How to post offers

   • How to submit bids

   • How exchanges work

   • Best practices for participation

Start Sharing Resources!
Once your cohort begins its first Episode, you’ll start offering and exchanging resources right away.

Yes! A detailed SWAP User Manual, created by Katie, is available and includes:

• Step-by-step platform instructions

• Visual walkthroughs

• Examples of offers, bids, and exchanges

• Tips for successful participation