The Rothschild Foundation Hanadiv Europe (RFHE) invites applications for its Departmental Initiative Grant Programme to strengthen Jewish Studies departments and centres in Europe. Grants of up to £75,000 per year for up to three years support teaching, research, public engagement, and departmental sustainability, with a 20% institutional match required. Applications close January 13, 2026, with notifications by mid-May 2026.

Rothschild Foundation Hanadiv Europe: Departmental Initiative Grant Programme

Overview

The Departmental Initiative Grant Programme supports Jewish Studies departments and centres across Europe to develop innovative initiatives that expand impact, enhance sustainability, and build on existing strengths. The programme funds projects focusing on teaching, research, dissemination, and public engagement. RFHE particularly encourages initiatives in:

• Contemporary European Jewish communities

• Digital humanities applications within Jewish Studies

All projects must be part of a comprehensive departmental development plan demonstrating long-term institutional sustainability.

Why It Matters

This programme strengthens the academic infrastructure of Jewish Studies, promoting:

• Enhanced curriculum and teaching opportunities

• Collaborative research across Europe

• Public engagement and knowledge dissemination

• Long-term sustainability for departments and centres

By supporting innovative initiatives, RFHE enables departments to expand influence, attract talent, and foster academic excellence.

Who is Eligible?

Eligible institutions include:

• Universities and research institutions based in Europe (EU and non-EU), excluding Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus

• Not-for-profit organisations, verified through UK charitable registration or equivalent certification abroad

Ineligible projects include:

• Tangentially related Jewish Studies projects

• Projects focused on individuals whose Jewish identity is incidental

• Secondary or informal education programs

• Documentary films

Funding Details

• Award size: Up to £75,000 per annum

• Project duration: Maximum of three years

• Matching requirement: Minimum 20% from the institution (cash or in-kind)

• Eligible costs:

  • Salaries, visiting lectureships, studentships

  • Curriculum development and teaching resources

  • Research expenses, publication, dissemination, and public engagement

  • Fieldtrips, conferences, networking activities with other Jewish Studies departments

How to Apply / How it Works

1. Submit the Application Form and supporting documents by Tuesday, 13 January 2026.

2. Provide details for two external referees unaffiliated with your institution; referees must submit reference forms by Tuesday, 20 January 2026.

3. Supporting documents must include:

   • Proof of non-profit or charitable status

   • Completed budget table with justification

   • CVs of all key project staff (up to five pages per CV)

   • Letter of institutional commitment from a senior university contact

   • Recent audited financial statements and current operating budget

   • Project update or final report for previously funded initiatives (if applicable)

   • English translations for any non-English documents

Successful applicants will receive an award letter and agreement for signature, along with further documentation instructions.

Common Tips

• Demonstrate clear alignment with Jewish Studies and departmental development goals

• Highlight institutional commitment and sustainability plan

• Ensure all budget details and cost-sharing contributions are clearly explained

• Provide referees who are knowledgeable about the project but independent of the institution

• Submit complete and properly translated documentation to avoid administrative delays

Expected Outcomes

• Strengthened teaching and research capabilities within Jewish Studies departments

• Creation of new resources, curriculum enhancements, and student opportunities

• Development of collaborative research projects and public engagement initiatives

• Long-term sustainability of departments and centres

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which institutions can apply?
Universities and research institutions in Europe, excluding Ukraine, Russia, and Belarus, with verified non-profit status.

2. What is the maximum funding available?
Up to £75,000 per year for a maximum of three years.

3. Are matching funds required?
Yes, a minimum of 20% matching funding from the institution is required, which may include in-kind contributions.

4. What types of projects are eligible?
Projects in teaching, research, dissemination, public engagement, and departmental development, especially in contemporary European Jewish communities or digital humanities.

5. What are the application deadlines?
Application submission: 13 January 2026; referee submissions: 20 January 2026.

6. What supporting documentation is required?
Proof of non-profit status, budget table, CVs, letter of institutional commitment, financial statements, operating budget, and project updates (if applicable).

7. When will applicants be notified?
Notifications will be sent by mid-May 2026.

Conclusion

The Departmental Initiative Grant Programme by RFHE empowers Jewish Studies departments and centres in Europe to expand their impact, strengthen teaching and research, and ensure long-term sustainability. With comprehensive funding, matched institutional support, and clear focus on contemporary and digital humanities initiatives, this grant fosters innovative academic development across the field.