The Initial Application Period for the 2026 Grant Cycle Is Closed

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Helping Jewish Institutions Move Solar Projects Forward

JSC offers matching grants of up to $50,000 to eligible Jewish institutions pursuing solar installations and related battery storage.

How the Grant Works

A Matching Grant for Project-Ready Institutions

JSC grants can cover up to 50% of eligible direct project costs, with a maximum grant of $50,000. Institutions are responsible for the remaining project costs and for selecting and managing their solar installer.

After an award is made, the institution signs a grant agreement and documents its eligible project spending before JSC releases matching funds.

Process steps:

  1. Prepare your project. Obtain a proposal from a reputable solar installer and build institutional support.

  2. Submit an initial application. JSC reviews basic eligibility, project readiness, and fit.

  3. Complete the final application. Selected applicants provide detailed project, financial, and impact information.

  4. Award and implementation. Grant recipients sign an agreement, complete their projects, document eligible spending, and share project and impact updates with JSC.

Basic Eligibility

Who Is Eligible?

The grant is open to Jewish institutions, including synagogues, Jewish community centers, day schools, preschools and early childhood centers, camps, federations, Hillels, and other Jewish nonprofit or community organizations.

To be eligible for a JSC grant, an organization must:

  • Own the building or land where the project will be installed.

  • Contribute at least 50% of the project’s eligible direct costs.

  • Submit a project proposal from a solar installer.

  • Provide a letter of support or resolution from its board of directors.

  • Provide proof of tax-exempt status as part of the final application.

Eligible Uses

What Can Grant Funds Support?

Grant funds are designated for eligible direct costs associated with solar panel projects, including the purchase and installation of solar panels and related battery storage systems.

Grant funds may not be used for unrelated construction, roofing, or general building repairs.

What Makes a Strong JSC Partner?

Project Readiness Matters

We prioritize institutions that are ready to move forward. Securing proposals from reputable solar providers before applying strengthens an application and helps JSC assess the project clearly and efficiently.

Sustainability Beyond Solar

We seek partners committed to broadening their sustainability efforts beyond solar energy. Examples may include:

  • Forming a green team to lead sustainability efforts.

  • Reducing overall energy consumption.

  • Switching to compostable utensils and plates to reduce waste.

  • Offering educational programming that builds sustainability awareness.

Community Impact

We encourage grantees to serve as role models by involving their communities in the solar project and in broader sustainability efforts. Visible participation can amplify a project’s impact and inspire further change.

2026 Grant Timeline

2026 Grant Cycle

Timeline:

  • September 1, 2026: Initial applications opened.

  • September 25, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. PT: Initial applications closed.

  • Early October 2026: Selected applicants invited to the final round.

  • October 8 and October 20, 2026: Optional office hours for invited finalists.

  • October 30, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. PT: Final applications due.

  • By the end of 2026: Grant recipients notified.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Organizations may request up to $50,000. A grant request may not exceed 50% of eligible direct project costs.

  • A solar proposal or quote is required. JSC is looking for institutions with well-developed projects that can move forward promptly if selected.

  • Required materials include a solar proposal, project budget, project timeline, proof of tax-exempt status, estimated annual energy use and costs, and a board resolution approving the solar project.

  • No. Grant funds are designated for eligible direct solar project costs, including related battery storage. They may not be used for roofing, unrelated construction, or general building repairs.

  • Email info@jewishsolarchallenge.com.