The Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago has issued its 2016 Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Breakthrough Fund, a grant program launched in 2014 to encourage smart, strategic growth and creative program development in Chicago’s Jewish community. Letters of Intent will be accepted through 3 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 12, 2016.

JUF will award $800,000 in new grants for leading-edge programs; capacity-building efforts; planning, research and development initiatives; and new approaches that address the wide array of needs, interests, individuals and identities that reflect the diverse Jewish community in Chicago, in Israel and other countries overseas.

In addition, JUF will distribute $282,000 in third-year funds for Breakthrough Fund grants committed during its first cycle. All told, the Breakthrough Fund will provide nearly $1.1 million in FY17.

Breakthrough Fund grants will support both established organizations with a legacy of creating and expanding value-added programs and services, and also early-stage organizations and entrepreneurs whose voices, visions and ideas are just emerging.

“A look at these grants offers an exciting snapshot of the Jewish world today, including new initiatives and partners that received JUF funding for the first time,” said JUF Board Chair Bill Silverstein. “The funded programs spotlight our commitment to evolve community services and programs along with community needs.”

Since its launch, JUF’s Breakthrough Fund has awarded $2.3 million in grants to 40 initiatives. Serving a variety of groups within Chicago’s Jewish community, the funded programs cover diverse themes, including inclusion programming for those with disabilities; connecting with diverse Jewish audiences; strengthening schools and students; supporting older adults’ physical, emotional and spiritual well-being; building and healing our community; and fostering intergenerational dialogues.

JUF invites prospective applicants to attend a workshop at 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, at its headquarters, 30 S. Wells St, Chicago. Attendees will learn more about the Breakthrough Fund’s goals, application process and requirements, and evaluation criteria. To register or for more information, contact Sarah Follmer, Director of Grants, at (312) 357-4547 or [email protected] , or visit www.juf.org/grants/breakthrough.aspx .