SIF was founded by Bill and Paula Clapp, who have 15 years of experience in international development work. They co-founded Global Partnerships where Bill was formerly the CEO, and currently serves as Chairman. Bill also co-founded the Initiative for Global Development with other notable international philanthropists from the Pacific Northwest, where he currently serves as director.

Bill and Paula Clapp
Bill served as the CEO for 30 years of Matthew G. Norton Company, a Seattle based investment, real estate and management company. He has served on the board of Alaska Airlines and Weyerhaeuser Co. as well as numerous private companies and non-profit organizations. Paula Clapp has worked with numerous non profit organizations in the Seattle area in addition to Global Partnerships focusing primarily in education and social needs.