A method of using alkali metal compounds and organic solvents to activate red phosphorous for synthesizing soluble polyphosphides is presented. A reaction between an alkali metal alkoxy compound or alkali metal alkyl thiolate compound, such as potassium ethoxide, and shelf stable red phosphorus generated soluble polyphosphides in a variety of organic solvents with the 31P NMR spectrum being used to detect the species of polyphosphides produced.