The Jewish Women’s Foundation of New Jersey (JWF-NJ), an advisory council of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater MetroWest, seeks to empower and support women and girls through targeted philanthropic initiatives. JWF-NJ adheres to guidelines established by the Jewish Community Foundation and awards grants to a wide range of 501(c)(3) public charities, both secular and Jewish, provided they align with the Foundation’s core values. Organizations that promote antisemitism or other forms of bigotry, proselytize Jews away from Judaism, or undermine the legitimacy of Israel through actions like supporting the BDS movement are ineligible for funding. JWF-NJ’s grantmaking focuses on projects based in Northern and Central New Jersey, specifically Essex, Morris, and Union counties, though nearby geographic areas in-state may be considered.
The Fall Grant Cycle offers Impact Grants of up to $5,000 for New Jersey-based projects that empower or support self-identifying women or girls, gender non-conforming individuals in female spaces, or women with their children. Applicants must demonstrate the ability of the grant to catalyze a meaningful change—whether through addressing a timely issue, covering a self-contained expense, or initiating a new project. Organizations with annual budgets under $250,000 are especially encouraged to apply. Funds must be used by June 30, aligning with JWF-NJ’s fiscal year; however, organizations running summer-only projects may use funds through August 31.
Applications for the Fall cycle open on September 3, 2025, through the FOUNDANT grantmaking system using the access code JWF-IMP26. Proposals must be submitted by October 10, 2025. Selected applicants will be notified by November 24, 2025, and funds will be released in early December. A final report is due by July 31, 2026.
Eligibility requires that applicants be 501(c)(3) organizations or have a fiscal sponsor with valid nonprofit status. Legal opinion letters of nonprofit status are not sufficient. Projects must be tailored to meet the needs of women, girls, or gender non-conforming individuals in female spaces and cannot merely include them as participants. JWF-NJ considers the representation of women and girls in leadership and staff positions when evaluating applications. Political campaigns, endowments, scholarships, special event sponsorships, and international travel are not eligible for funding.
All applications must be submitted through the FOUNDANT system. A sample application is available for reference. While the Impact Grant provides modest funding, its goal is to produce significant community outcomes. Projects will be assessed on impact, timeliness, and alignment with JWF-NJ’s mission. Given the competitive nature of the process, applicants are encouraged to clearly articulate how the grant will be used and the expected outcomes. There are no required matching funds, and applicants are evaluated based on organizational capacity and the potential for project success.
Clearly explain how a small grant will produce a significant outcome. Emphasize timeliness and budget alignment.
