Innovation Fund (IF)
The Jewish Federation of Greater Austin has committed funds towards an Innovation Fund (IF) to support new ideas aimed at enhancing Jewish life in Austin. Individuals and/or organizations with a startup initiative for the Austin Jewish Community are encouraged to apply for these funds. The funds available are considered to be micro-grants (maximum of $1000) for social entrepreneurship. The hope is that these donated dollars will be used to leverage engagement and participation in the local Jewish community. Grant amounts and the number of grant recipients will be decided by IF through a selection process which will include a written application and interviews. A mid-grant evaluation will be requested from grant recipients. Applications are due by September 26, 2011. Recipients will be notified by December 30, 2011.
The mission of IF is to inspire and advance initiatives that contribute to the continued growth and vitality of Jewish life in Austin.
The vision of IF is for innovation to be integrated into the culture of Austin Jewish life - stimulating ongoing relevance and meaning.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Austin hopes that grant applicants will fulfill at least one of the following priorities:
• Promote Jewish values
• Connect Jewish people
• Educate the community
• Strengthen the community
• Mobilize the community
• Enhance Jewish life in Austin
Eligibility:
• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
• Individuals and/or Organizations are eligible; organizations that already receive an allocation from the Jewish Federation of Greater Austin are ineligible.
• Applicants must be located in and providing services in the Greater Austin area.
• Funds are for new initiatives only. The organization or individual must be starting/trying something new.
• Grant funds may not be used for the benefit of any individual or for any proprietary or commercial use.
Additional Information:
• 10-20 percent of the total grant will be held back until completion of a progress evaluation mid-year or mid-grant. If the work is not progressing as expected the remaining funds may be reallocated.
• Individuals who are associated with a nonprofit organization will be asked at a later date to provide a W-9 from the sponsoring organization and the organization's budget for that year.
• Individuals with a great idea and no ties to a nonprofit tax exempt organization should contact Dana Epstein to request sponsorship from the Jewish Federation of Greater Austin.
• Grantees must agree to make available to the grantor any program materials developed with grant funds to allow for internal program use where appropriate.
For more information or questions, please e-mail dana.epstein@shalomaustin.org or call (512) 735-8008.