The July 31 deadline is approaching for a new initiative from the Jewish Federation of St. Louis — offering grant opportunities for innovative ideas that address Jewish education or engagement within the St. Louis Jewish community. The Innovation Grant opportunity is open to anyone who would like to pursue funding and support for an innovative objective. All ideas are welcome and examples include:

• Organic farming with an emphasis on social justice and Jewish values

• Jewish supper clubs

• Torah study groups with a twist

• Online Hebrew schools

• Celebrating holidays at off-site locations

• An exhibition of local Jewish artists

Innovation Grants will range from $200 to $10,000 and will provide innovators opportunities to test the feasibility and strength of their ideas. In addition, Jewish Federation will provide support for these ideas through mentor connections, publicity and marketing efforts, peer consultations and brainstorming sessions, and strategic planning consultation. All awards will be given for a one-year funding cycle, with the opportunity for multiyear funding, and are open to individuals or groups that have not yet established a federal tax identification number.

“We are excited to support entrepreneurs who will add vibrancy to Jewish life in St. Louis,” said Ruth Raskas, chair of the innovation grants committee. “We encourage them to participate in this new opportunity.”

The online application will run through Wednesday, July 31 and can be completed at jfedstl.org/innovation-grants.  For more information, contact Sonia Dobinsky at [email protected].