UpStart Accelerator

UpStart Accelerator

Purpose: Support early-stage, innovative Jewish organizations bringing something fresh and relevant to Jewish life.

Geographic Scope: National (US and beyond); regional hubs in Bay Area, Los Angeles, Chicago, Denver, New York, and 13+ communities across the country.

Focus Areas:

Jewish innovation and entrepreneurship

Early-stage Jewish organizations and social ventures

Organizations serving underserved Jewish communities

Jewish education and engagement initiatives

Jewish life and community building

What They Fund:

Innovative programs and initiatives in Jewish life

Early-stage Jewish nonprofit organizations

Organizations with fresh approaches to Jewish engagement and education

Community-based Jewish programs

Program Features:

3-year commitment providing training, network-building, and funding

Access to professional trainers, coaches, and subject matter experts

Webinars and advisory support

Connection to UpStart's network of advisors, alumni, and funders

Lifelong support network post-program

Regional hub support and professional development

Eligibility:

Early-stage Jewish organizations with innovative approaches

Organizations demonstrating capacity and leadership

Organizations with unique, sustainable models offering long-term positive impact

Ability to implement initiatives and scale impact

Historical Context:

Launched in 2006

Part of 2017 merger consolidating UpStart, Joshua Venture Group, Bikkurim, and U.S. programs of PresenTense

Has supported nearly 40 Jewish organizations since inception (as of 2016)

Serves as national intermediary supporting Jewish innovation

Alumni Organizations Include: Moishe House, SVARA, At The Well, A Wider Bridge, Jewish Plays Project, BimBam, Edah, Fair Trade Judaica, Kevah, The Kitchen, JLens, Project Beyond, Remember us: The Holocaust Bnai Mitzvah Project, Rosh Pina, Urban Adamah, Wilderness Torah

Contact: Aaron Katler, CEO; Los Angeles representative: Jocelyn Orloff

Website: upstartlab.org