Project-Incubator

Empowering Activism

Paideia presents the Project-Incubator, a 10-day summer program dedicated to fostering new initiatives that enrich European Jewish life. This program is designed for activists and innovators working across educational, cultural, heritage, communal, intercultural, and institutional fields. Through a comprehensive, structured process, the Project-Incubator guides participants from the initial concept to the full realization of their project ideas.

As the first of its kind, it continues to lead in supporting social innovation within Jewish communities across the continent, empowering participants to turn their ideas into impactful realities. Since the inception of the program in 2006, it has tutored close to 400 projects, more than any other program in Europe, reaching over 300,000 people.

Program structure

Key focus areas

Strategic Clarity: The ability to assess a project’s context, identify its unique value, and define its purpose and potential impact

Needs Assessment: Tools to identify and understand the needs, challenges, and opportunities a project seeks to address

Project Design: Practical skills to develop a clear project structure, set objectives, and translate ideas into actionable plans

Partnership Development: Methods for identifying relevant stakeholders, mapping potential partners, and building meaningful collaborations

Communication and Outreach: Strategies for articulating a project’s value, reaching target audiences, and engaging relevant communities

Financial Planning and Fundraising: Practical knowledge of budgeting, resource development, and fundraising strategies to support project implementation and growth

Sustainable Activism: Tools for managing energy, establishing healthy boundaries, and developing sustainable approaches to long-term engagement and social change

By the end of the program, participants are equipped with a clearer project vision, a structured development plan, practical implementation tools, and the foundations for building sustainable, impactful initiatives.

Program includes

• A step-by-step process guiding from idea development to project implementation
• Expert coaching on project design, fundraising, and incorporating Jewish content
• Daily workshops, networking opportunities, and inspiring cultural activities
• Peer-to-peer reviews and feedback
• One-on-one mentoring
• Access to a vibrant network of like-minded innovators who are driving change across Europe

Participant profile

The program welcomes individuals working across educational, cultural, heritage, communal, intercultural, and institutional fields who are committed to strengthening Jewish life in Europe through meaningful and sustainable initiatives. Participants may join with an initial idea they wish to develop or an existing project at any stage of development, whether they seek to refine their approach, expand their reach, or increase their impact. The program brings together diverse perspectives and experiences, fostering cross-border exchange and collaboration to support innovative projects that respond to the needs and opportunities of Jewish communities across Europe.

Mentors

The program brings together a diverse group of experienced mentors and experts from across Europe and Israel, representing a wide range of fields, including social entrepreneurship, community development, education, culture, and social innovation. Drawing on their extensive professional expertise and varied perspectives, the mentors provide tailored guidance and practical insights, helping participants strengthen their projects, navigate challenges, and develop strategies for sustainable growth and long-term impact.

Application requirements

Projects applying to the Project-Incubator should meet the following criteria:

Address a specific need:
Respond to a clearly identified need, challenge, or opportunity related to Jewish life in Europe, including educational, cultural, heritage, communal, intercultural, or institutional contexts

Demonstrate feasibility and impact:

Present a concrete project idea with realistic potential for implementation and meaningful social impact

Have a European scope:

Be implemented in one or more European countries, with the potential to contribute to Jewish communities and life across Europe

Be at any stage of development:

Be either a new initiative at the idea stage or an existing project ready to enter its next phase of development, expansion, or growth

Participant commitment

Applicants should be prepared to:

Participate fully in the program:

Commit to attending and actively participating in all components of the Project-Incubator

Advance their project in 2027:

Work towards implementing or further developing their project during 2027, building on the knowledge, tools, and guidance gained during the program

Take part in follow-up activities in 2028:

Participate in two follow-up sessions organized by Paideia to reflect on progress, address challenges, and support the continued development of their projects

The Project-Incubator 2026 is supported by Anthony Pritzker Family Foundation and The Erwin Rautenberg Foundation.