Victory Cup Initiative Highlights Ten Central Florida Nonprofits in 2027 Finalists

Ten nonprofits from Central Florida are being afforded an opportunity to share their narratives, gain financial support, and attract new backers.

The Victory Cup Initiative, based in Winter Park and established in 2015, has revealed its finalists for 2027 after reviewing 186 applications from four counties. This initiative, created by Ashley Vann, focuses on equipping nonprofits with storytelling skills to inspire community engagement. The finalists will undergo professional coaching before presenting a two-and-a-half-minute pitch to an audience of potential donors and supporters.

A total of over $500,000 was awarded at the 2026 event, and the funding provided is unrestricted, allowing winners to allocate it as needed. This year’s finalists include CrossTown Ministries, Orlando Center for Justice, The Kitchen House, Opera Orlando, and Mead Botanical Garden, along with Boys Town Central Florida, HOPE Helps, Osceola Council on Aging, Who We Play For, and East Coast Zoological Foundation. The 12th annual Victory Cup Story Showcase Breakfast is scheduled for February 23, 2027, where attendees can listen to the finalists and vote for cash awards. Every finalist will receive some funding, but the relationships formed through this initiative may yield even greater value.

For organizations focused on helping struggling families, conserving green spaces, offering legal aid, or promoting the arts, making meaningful connections can be transformative. Tickets and tables for the event can be purchased through victorycupinitiative.org.