Federation seeks applications for Innovation Grants

Jewish Federation of St. Louis will fund another cohort of Innovation Grants in 2014. The grants are designed to stimulate the growth of new ideas that address Jewish education or engagement in the St. Louis Jewish community. In 2013, $30,000 was awarded to eight projects chosen from 73 submissions and serving a broad spectrum of the community from teens to senior citizens.

“We’re excited to see what creative new ideas will come from innovators in the local Jewish community this year,” says Mindee Fredman, director of special projects for Federation. “In 2013, we awarded grants to projects as diverse as a Shabbaton designed to celebrate Jewish values through the use of Grateful Dead music, a meet-up website to facilitate connections of local Jewish individuals and families with similar interests, and a grassroots organization for LGBTQ Jews. We encourage anyone who has an idea that will add vibrancy to Jewish life in St. Louis to apply for a 2014 Innovation Grant.”

The 2014 grants will range from $200 to $5,000 and will provide innovators opportunities to experiment and/or test the feasibility and strength of their ideas. Awards may be eligible for subsequent funding. In addition, Jewish Federation will provide support through mentor connections, publicity and marketing efforts, peer consultations and brainstorming sessions, and strategic planning consultation. 

The grant application can be found at www.jfedstl.org/innovation-grants. Applications will be accepted through July 31.

Designed to tap the creativity that exists beyond Jewish community congregations, agencies and organizations, the grants are available to individuals or groups of individuals who live in St. Louis. While applicants may work for a Jewish agency, congregation or institution, the project itself should not be a part of their professional work. Grants will not be awarded to established organizations and will not be awarded as seed money for a start-up business or nonprofit. Funds cannot be used for professional fees or services provided by grant applicants/recipients.

For more information, email [email protected].