Jerusalem Foundation unveils ‘Social Innovation Challenge’ to mark jubilee

The first prize winner will be eligible for $50,000 in funding, while second and third prize winners will receive $35,000 and $15,000 respectively.

JULY 27, 2016 00:33

Young people wave Israeli flags during the Jerusalem Day march on June 5 (photo credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM) — Young people wave Israeli flags during the Jerusalem Day march on June 5

(photo credit: MARC ISRAEL SELLEM)

“If you are a ‘change-agent’ and have an idea, here is your opportunity to compete for funding and make your dream a reality,” the Jerusalem Foundation announced recently at the launch of its Social Innovation Challenge competition.

The nonprofit foundation – established by legendary mayor Teddy Kollek to promote the development of the city – said prizes totaling half a million shekels will be handed out at the end of its 50th anniversary celebrations to be held in the capital September 20-22, in the presence of President Reuven Rivlin, Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat, and distinguished guests from Israel and abroad.

“We are looking for social innovations, a novel solution to a social problem in Jerusalem,” the foundation said. “Your venture can address issues relating to economic development, education [both formal and informal], arts and culture, or dialogue and shared living. Particular attention will be given to vulnerable population groups, such as the elderly, at-risk youth, special needs adults or children, or those residing in socioeconomically disadvantaged neighborhoods.”

“The unique and complex challenges facing Jerusalem have transformed it into a flourishing market of exceptional ideas and initiatives run by Jerusalemites, which are a source of inspiration for the Jerusalem Foundation,” said Jerusalem Foundation President Johanna Arbiv. “Social startups are the building blocks for the construction of modern Jerusalem.”

The challenge is designed to generate ideas for innovative ventures that can respond to Jerusalem’s unique and seemingly insurmountable challenges, according to the foundation.

“We are looking for novel solutions that can solve a particular problem or concern in Jerusalem, but your passion is as important as your project.”

Among the conditions and criteria are that the venture must be in Jerusalem, have a realistically implementable budget, and be submitted by an individual or under the auspices of a legal entity. Deadline for applications is August 5, and preference will be given to ventures that have already secured seed funding.

The first prize winner will be eligible for $50,000 in funding, while second and third prize winners will receive $35,000 and $15,000 respectively.

To apply, fill out the form at https://goo.gl/qea4J8.