Jewish Solar Challenge Grant

The Jewish Solar Challenge Grant supports Jewish institutions seeking to install solar energy systems and advance broader sustainability efforts. The opportunity is open to Jewish institutions such as schools, synagogues, camps, nonprofits, and other organizations, and applicants may apply from anywhere in the world. The program seeks institutions that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and that can serve as examples within their communities. The Jewish Solar Challenge encourages partners not only to transition their own facilities to solar energy but also to engage their communities and inspire broader reductions in energy use and environmental impact. Grant funding is specifically designated for solar panel projects. Eligible project costs include the purchase and installation of solar panels as well as battery storage systems. Grant funds cannot be used for unrelated construction activities, including roofing or general building repairs. The amount awarded depends on the scope of the proposed project, with matching grants available up to $50,000. Applicants must contribute at least 50 percent of the project's total cost. The Jewish Solar Challenge plans to make at least six grants, although the final number may vary depending on the quality and scope of applications received. Applicants must meet several core eligibility requirements. An applying institution must own the building or land where the project will be undertaken, contribute at least 50 percent of total project costs, submit a project proposal from a solar installer as part of the application process, and provide a support letter from the institution's board of directors. The funder particularly values organizations that are "shovel ready" and recommends securing proposals from reputable solar providers as early as possible. Although a solar proposal or quote is required, an applicant that does not have one during the initial application phase should indicate when it expects to obtain one. The program is seeking organizations capable of beginning their solar projects as soon as possible. Beyond the core eligibility requirements, the Jewish Solar Challenge encourages applicants to demonstrate a broader commitment to sustainability. Examples include forming a green team, switching to compostable utensils and plates, reducing overall energy consumption, and offering sustainability education. Community impact is also encouraged. Applicants can strengthen their partnership potential by engaging community members in the solar project or other sustainability initiatives and by serving as role models that demonstrate environmental leadership and encourage broader adoption of solar energy. The application period opens September 1, 2026 and the first-round application deadline is September 25, 2026 at 5:00 PM Pacific Standard Time. Select applicants will advance to a second round, with finalists expected to be notified by the end of September. Finalists will have an opportunity to meet with the Jewish Solar Challenge team during office hours to discuss details of the secondary application. Final applications are due October 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM Pacific Standard Time. Required final-application documents include a solar proposal, budget, project timeline, proof of tax-exempt status through 501(c)(3) confirmation, an estimate of yearly energy usage and costs, and a board resolution approving the solar project. Grant recipients are expected to be notified by the end of 2026. The source does not provide a stated project performance period, recurring annual schedule, named program contact, email address, or telephone number. Applicants are advised to submit a detailed budget and well-developed solar proposal and to prepare their projects for implementation as soon as possible. The emphasis on shovel readiness, established solar-provider proposals, sustainability activities beyond solar, and community engagement indicates the characteristics the Jewish Solar Challenge explicitly prioritizes when considering potential partners.

Secure proposals from reputable solar providers as early as possible and be shovel ready; submit a detailed budget and well-developed solar proposal; demonstrate sustainability efforts beyond solar; engage the community and show potential to serve as a sustainability role model; be prepared to begin the solar project as soon as possible.