Jewish Women’s Foundation Grants

The Jewish Women’s Foundation (JWF) of San Diego, operating under the Jewish Community Foundation of San Diego, is a philanthropic organization dedicated to improving the lives of Jewish women and girls both locally and globally. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded over $1 million to nonprofit organizations whose work aligns with its mission and core values. JWF funds are granted in three-year cycles, with the current cycle running from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2027. The next grant cycle, covering 2027 to 2030, will begin accepting applications in Fall 2026. JWF applies both a gender and a Jewish lens in its approach to grantmaking. Programs that address the distinct needs of Jewish women and girls—taking into account their religious, cultural, and gender-specific experiences—are given priority. While the primary focus remains on supporting women and girls, JWF acknowledges that effective programs may also engage men and boys. Funding is provided for both general operating expenses and project-specific initiatives. Although preference is given to programs in the San Diego region, the Foundation also considers state, national, and international proposals, particularly from Israel. However, grant applications from organizations based in Israel are accepted by invitation only. Key impact areas for JWF funding include Building Relationships, Economic Security, Education, Leadership & Advocacy, Equity, Social Justice & Legal Reform, and Health, Well-Being & Safety. These categories reflect a commitment to fostering cross-cultural relationships, enhancing financial literacy and self-sufficiency, empowering women through leadership development, and addressing systemic injustices and health disparities. The Foundation encourages collaborative proposals between nonprofit organizations that aim to amplify social impact. Each grant cycle includes a detailed application process involving written proposals and interviews. Selected projects are evaluated for alignment with JWF’s mission, feasibility, and potential for measurable outcomes. For example, in the 2024–2027 cycle, funded programs include the Kindness Initiative’s “Esha Chazakah” program for single Jewish mothers, Jewish Family Service’s Housing Navigation Project supporting female-led households, and El HaLev’s self-defense training for at-risk girls in Israel. Other grantees include Impact Israel’s leadership development program and a variety of past recipients with strong records of community impact. While the Foundation does not specify a required cost-share or match, its emphasis is on supporting impactful, sustainable, and community-driven projects. All prospective applicants must align their proposed programs with at least one of the Foundation’s impact areas and demonstrate a strong organizational capacity. The Foundation is open to funding both emerging and established initiatives. Contact information for questions or volunteer engagement is available through Sarah Schatz. Additional program details and application updates are expected to be released closer to the Fall 2026 application window. Applicants are advised to begin preparation early, especially as grant consideration involves a thorough review of proposals, mission alignment, and interviews. Organizations interested in submitting proposals for the 2027–2030 cycle should monitor the Foundation’s website in the latter half of 2026 for specific dates and submission guidelines.