Jewish Federation of St. Louis announces that it will fund another round of Innovation Grants in 2015. The grants are designed to stimulate the growth of new ideas that address Jewish education or engagement in the St. Louis Jewish community. Last year, five individuals received Innovation Grants for their creative projects.

“This year, we are trying to do something a little different with the Innovation Grants,” said Emily Bornstein, Planning and Allocations Associate for Jewish Federation of St. Louis. “It is our hope that the programs will become sustainable after 1-3 rounds of funding. We encourage anyone who has an entrepreneurial idea that will add vibrancy to Jewish life in St. Louis to apply.”

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 cannot be a part of their professional work.

The 2015 grants will range from $1,000 to $10,000 and provide innovators opportunities to experiment and/or test the feasibility and strength of their ideas. In addition, Jewish Federation of St. Louis will provide support through mentor connections, publicity and marketing efforts, peer consultations, brainstorming sessions and strategic planning consultation.

The grant application can be found at JFedSTL.org/Innovation-Grants . Applications will be accepted through April 30, 2015. For more information, contact Emily Bornstein at EBornsteain@JFedSTL.org.