Jewish Federation of St. Louis Introduces Impact Grants
New program creates timely, targeted, and collaborative funding options to support community initiatives
St. Louis, Mo. – In response to the unique and growing opportunities to create a more vibrant Jewish community, Jewish Federation of St. Louis announces the launch of Jewish Federation Impact Grants. The new grantmaking initiative is designed to be agile and responsive, supporting innovative, collaborative, and impactful projects that enhance Jewish life across the region.
Inspired by the priorities outlined in Federation’s 2025 Strategic Plan, the new grants will provide funding to local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations responding to urgent community needs with targeted, evidence-based solutions. Grants will range from $5,000 to $50,000, with the option for multi-year proposals not to exceed a total of $50,000 over three years.
“We are able to bring this new grant program to our community thanks to the generosity of our donors during our 2024 Annual Campaign,” said Danny Cohn, President and CEO of Jewish Federation of St. Louis. “Their support allows us to go beyond sustaining vital agency services and begin investing in bold, forward-thinking ideas that will shape the future of Jewish life in St. Louis. We value the trust our donors put in Federation to steward funds to where they are most impactful.”
The Jewish Federation Impact Grants complement, but are distinct from, Federation’s annual allocations to core partner agencies and distributions from supporting foundations or endowments, which provide essential, ongoing operational support. In 2025, Federation has already invested nearly $7 million in St. Louis and Israel programs and services that promote Jewish vibrancy, care for those in need, deepen our community’s connection to Israel, enhance safety, and combat antisemitism.
“This new grantmaking model reflects our efforts to lead with purpose and invest with strategy,” said Karen Sher, Chief Impact Officer at Jewish Federation. “Impact Grants are not meant to replace existing support for vital institutions. Instead, they will allow us to address emerging needs, while also encouraging partnerships and programs that bring our community together and move us forward.”
Applications are open as of August 4, 2025 and will be accepted from both individual organizations and collaborations between organizations serving the St. Louis Jewish community. Priority will be given to projects that align with Federation’s strategic priorities, demonstrate significant community need, and are informed by findings from the 2024 Jewish Community Study.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. Early submissions are strongly encouraged. Unused funds that have been allocated for Jewish Federation Impact Grants will roll over to the following year.
For more information, or to apply, contact Scott Berzon, Director of Community Impact, at sberzon@JFedSTL.org or visit www.JFedSTL.org/impactgrants.
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Jewish Federation of St. Louis is the Jewish community’s central philanthropic, planning and community-building organization. Founded in 1901, it is one of the region’s most respected and effective nonprofit organizations. Jewish Federation of St. Louis supports more than 85 agencies, programs and services in St. Louis and around the world – to ensure a thriving Jewish community, respond to emergencies and care for our vulnerable. Funds are raised through the Jewish Federation of St. Louis’ Annual Campaign and through Planned Giving opportunities. Find out more at JFedSTL.org. Jewish Federation of St. Louis is a Better Business Bureau Accredited Charity.