In November, 2013, The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation announced a matching grant initiative intended to energize the philanthropic community in the area of workforce development. Today, the Weinberg Foundation and Jewish Funders Network (JFN), which administers the program, remind funders as well as eligible nonprofits to apply in the coming weeks. The application deadline is April 30, 2014.
This initiative seeks to encourage support of service providers, primarily in the United States and Israel, who focus on career training and advancement. Specifically, this 1:1 match program aims to increase the number of funders, as well as the amount of grant dollars, supporting organizations and projects that address unemployment and underemployment for both the Jewish and non-Jewish communities. The program is being administered by Jewish Funders Network, an international organization dedicated to maximizing the quality and impact of Jewish philanthropy. The Weinberg Foundation is providing up to $3 million to be matched.
Qualifying grants in the U.S. of $25,000 to $100,000 will be matched at a rate of 1:1. In Israel, the minimum is 75,000 NIS (New Israeli Shekel). Grant commitments may be up to three years in length, but the total maximum match, even for grants exceeding $100,000, will be $100,000. An organization whose primary mission is to support workforce development as defined by this initiative may receive grants for general operating or capital support. Organizations with a broader mission may receive program or capital support. Funders eligible to apply for matching funds must be members in good standing of the Jewish Funders Network.
Again, the application deadline is April 30, 2014. For more information on eligibility and how to apply visit http://www.workforce-match.org or contact Marci Hunn, Program Director, Workforce Development at mhunn@hjweinberg.org.