Core Grants

The Hadassah Foundation, founded by Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, is a leader in advancing gender equity through grantmaking in the United States and Israel. Its approach prioritizes trust-based philanthropy, supporting organizations that promote gender equity through leadership, education, and advocacy initiatives. Grants are awarded in four categories: Spark, Core (U.S. and Israel), Visionary Partner, and Discretionary, each designed to meet organizations at varying stages of development and capacity. The Spark Grants program targets innovative organizations addressing gender equity gaps. These early-stage organizations either operate with an annual budget of $500,000 or less or have existed for 10 or fewer years. In 2025, the Hadassah Foundation awarded four Spark Grants of $20,000 each, disbursed over 18 months in two $10,000 installments. This initiative supports both Israeli and U.S.-based organizations with programming that aligns with the Foundation’s mission. The program’s timeline included a July 28 application close, interviews in October, notification in mid-November, and public announcements with disbursements in January 2026. The Core Grants provide more substantial, three-year support to well-established organizations promoting gender equity. In 2025, three U.S.-based organizations and five Israeli organizations each received $80,000, with distributions of $30,000 in the first and second years, and $20,000 in the third. U.S. applicants were required to have budgets between $200,000 and $5 million, and part of their programming must target the Jewish community. Israeli applicants needed equivalent local legal status and programs based in Israel. U.S. Core applications closed June 11, with finalist interviews by July 28, notifications on October 1, and disbursements in January 2026. Israeli Core applications closed March 12, with funding decisions communicated June 15 and grants announced in September. Hadassah also supports Visionary Partner Grants—long-term commitments of $130,000 over five years—and Discretionary Grants of up to $5,000 for time-sensitive needs. Eligibility across all grant types requires 501(c)(3) status or equivalent legal standing, and proposed programs must take place within the funder’s designated geographic areas. Applications from partnerships or collaborations are accepted. The Foundation does not fund capital campaigns, endowments, scholarships, individuals, or partisan political activity. Evaluation is managed by grant committees composed of current and former board members. Although no new RFPs will be issued until 2026, applicants can expect a similar schedule to 2025. Those interested should subscribe to the Foundation’s mailing list for updates on future opportunities.