The Jewish Solar Challenge (JSC) announced on September 1st that the funding application cycle for 2025 has officially begun. All Jewish non-profit organizations that own their own buildings (including synagogues, Jewish schools, and Jewish camps) are eligible for a matching grant of up to $50000 for the installation of solar panels. The application deadline is September 22nd, and JSC will announce the list of winners at the end of November.

The Jewish Solar Challenge program offers over $300000 in prize money, and since its establishment in 2022, the total amount of prize money provided for solar panels has exceeded $1 million. Organizations that have received solar energy quotations (i.e. those preparing to start installation immediately) will be given priority.

Jewish non-profit organizations interested in developing solar energy should take immediate action - before the federal solar incentive expires, "said Mitchell Schwartz, founder of the Jewish Solar Challenge. We are here to ensure that recent policy changes do not slow down our community's transition to clean energy, so that we can create a better future for future generations

Senior communication executive and environmentalist Mitchell Schwartz founded the Jewish Solar Challenge three years ago, dreaming of installing solar panels on the roofs of all Jewish organizations in North America. So far, the Jewish Solar Challenge has provided matching funding to 14 organizations across the United States and a Jewish community in Tikva, Uganda. So far, the Jewish Solar Challenge has funded over $2 million in solar projects.

JSC funded winners need to demonstrate a broader commitment to sustainable development, not just the installation of solar panels.

Respecting and caring for our planet is our responsibility, "said Limor Zimskind, former president of Temple Emanu El and recipient of aid in 2024. Although the upfront cost of solar energy may be too high for many non-profit organizations, funding for the Jewish Solar Challenge allows us to take an important step towards sustainable development and save our electricity bills in the long run

Qualified applicants will enter the final round of the funding process. Before the final application deadline, JSC experts will work directly with various organizations to plan specific measures aimed at enhancing the sustainability of their communities. The deadline for the second round of applications is October 31st.