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Shannon Farley
Fast Forward - Accelerating Tech for Good
Shannon Farley is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Fast Forward, an organization dedicated to accelerating tech nonprofits. Established in 2014, Fast Forward focuses on supporting entrepreneurs who leverage technology to address significant social challenges. Under her leadership, the organization has become a pivotal force in the tech nonprofit sector, providing resources, mentorship, and funding to innovative startups that aim to create social impact through technology.15
Background and Career
Before founding Fast Forward, Shannon served as the founding Executive Director of Spark, the largest network of Millennial philanthropists, where she facilitated funding for grassroots women’s organizations. Additionally, she co-founded the W. Haywood Burns Institute, a recognized organization focused on juvenile justice reform and racial equity.26 Her educational background includes a BA in American Studies from Georgetown University and an MS in Gender and Social Policy from the London School of Economics.36
Vision for Tech Nonprofits
Shannon's vision for Fast Forward is to bridge the gap between technology and social impact, enabling nonprofits to utilize tech solutions effectively. She emphasizes the importance of community in fostering innovation and believes that tech can play a crucial role in solving some of the world's most pressing issues.46 Under her guidance, Fast Forward has supported over 100 tech nonprofits that have collectively impacted millions of lives globally.15
Personal Interests
Outside her professional endeavors, Shannon enjoys exploring public art, watching films, and spending time at Bay Area public pools with her toddler.1
Highlights
Students don’t need bots. They need real connections. Ed-tech leaders @jaredchung (@CareerVillage) and @Tiff_Tastic (Uprooted Academy) are proving AI can strengthen the human touch. @The74 has the story. https://t.co/Buax8yfR5m
At our 2nd annual Alumni Retreat, 100+ leaders from 59 tech nonprofits came together — not just to talk, but to lift each other up. Panels, party lights, strategy sessions, and strikes at the bowling alley — this community is unstoppable.
Here’s to building the future. Together. https://t.co/SVNQ6BZzKG

