UpStart

During Sukkot, we are invited to step out of the comfort of our homes and into the vulnerability of the wilderness. We are embraced by the shelter of the sukkah, reminding us of the strength to be found in celebrating the festival together with friends and family.

The past 10 days have been a time of reflection, both inward and outward. As Yom Kippur begins, and as we ask forgiveness, let us do so with a clear head, and resolve to be the best we can be in the New Year.

One year ago today, we witnessed an unspeakable tragedy. We remember the innocent lives lost, the families torn apart, and the hostages still separated from their loved ones. Today, we honor their memory and reaffirm our commitment to peace, healing, and justice for all.

Shana Tova & Happy New Year from UpStart!

We’re proud to announce our latest Growth-Stage Capacity Building Grant Recipients! These grants are dedicated to supporting impact evaluation for their bold, mission-driven ideas. The Advot Project The Efshar Project NewGround: A Muslim Jewish Partnership for Change At The Well Mitsui Collective Shoresh Shomer Collective Inheritance Theater Project UpStart awarded a total of $250k! These investments will allow these purpose-led organizations to drive growth and further refine their offerings, ensuring that they are spending resources where the impact will be the greatest.

Congratulations to our 31 UpLift summer participants! These visionary leaders are taking their ventures to the next level through, gaining expertise, community support, and access to funding. If you’re ready to bring bold ideas to life, applications are always open—apply now to join the next cohort in February!

We asked UpStarter Dr. Analucía Lopezrevoredo how she celebrates the intersection of Jewish and Latin cultures during Latin Heritage Month: ”During Latin Heritage Month, I celebrate the intersection of Jewish and Latin American cultures by uplifting the stories and contributions of Latin Jews. This involves hosting and participating in events that highlight the rich cultural mosaic of our community, emphasizing the diversity of Latin American Jewry. I also celebrate by engaging with cultural expressions like food, music, and language that blend both traditions, such as sharing Latin Jewish recipes, putting together playlists that include Yiddish, Ladino, Brazilian, and Latin American Spanish music, and having conversations around Jewish themes in Spanish, Portuguese or that integrate terms from indigenous languages of the Americas. It's an opportunity to foster visibility and challenge assumptions of our multicultural identity.”

UpStart is on the lookout for a visionary leader to step into the role of Chief Advancement Officer. If you’re someone who thrives on creating and executing impactful fundraising strategies, this could be your next big move. In this role, you’ll not only lead the charge in building and maintaining key relationships but also play a crucial part in boosting UpStart’s visibility and influence. You’ll oversee everything from marketing and communications to fundraising and board relations, ensuring our mission gets the spotlight it deserves. Learn more and apply: https://lnkd.in/edrSFKbC

Take a pause, breathe deeply, and nourish your soul this Shabbat with rest and connection.

Meet the faces of UpSpring Cohort ’25! Our newest UpSpring Cohort is set to inspire change and create new experiences within the Jewish community and beyond. Follow them to stay updated on their journeys and stories. #UpSpring25 #BoldJewishIdeas Abrahamic House Be'chol Lashon Inter-Agency Task Force on Israeli Arab Issues Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California (JPAC) Kabbalah Experience The LUNAR Collective TischPDX Zera Cafe Learn more about their impactful journeys and innovative ventures: https://lnkd.in/g2SUh5U2