Applications open on February 1st for UpStart’s Accelerator, the Jewish community’s leading engine behind the success of early-stage, innovative Jewish organizations. Since 2006, UpStart has served as a launch pad for over thirty Jewish organizations, including: G-dcast, Moishe House, Mishkan Chicago, Urban Adamah, Kevah, and A Wider Bridge. The Accelerator program partners with innovative organizations to transform vision and passion into successful, scaleable, Jewish social ventures. Applications are competitive and close on February 29, 2016.

The Accelerator provides three years of training, network-building, and some funding for accepted Jewish organizations. The UpStart curriculum teaches organizations the latest in entrepreneurial tools and mindsets, guided by Jewish wisdom, in order to fuel their success and the growth of their work. Participants also connect with UpStart’s advisors, experts, and alumni, developing a lifelong support network.

In addition to UpStart’s flagship Accelerator program, UpStart partners with major Jewish organizations like the JCC Association of North America (JCCA), Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, and the Jewish Education Project on how to integrate the latest innovation methodologies into their work. Last year, UpStart opened its second regional office in Chicago and has ambitious plans for further growth and expansion.

Applications are open February 1-29. Information about the Accelerator program can be found at http://upstartlab.org/accelerator/.