Advancing Social Impact Projects
Supporting social initiatives that uplift vulnerable communities and those affected by the war
As we approach the 2025–2026 academic year, the Dr. Yair Tzadok Weil Unit for Social Impact Projects continues to support volunteer-based initiatives within the university. The unit backs projects that benefit marginalized and at-risk communities across Israel, including residents of the periphery, the elderly, survivors of domestic violence, people with disabilities, individuals coping with mental health challenges, children with special needs, and those facing economic hardship. This year, the unit is also seeking to include projects that assist individuals affected by the war—those coping with loss, trauma, displacement, or community disintegration.
Now in its ninth year, the unit has supported a wide range of innovative and impactful initiatives that reached diverse populations. Each year, both new projects and ongoing ones are selected for support.
Have a project in mind? The open call for proposals is published at the end of each academic year.
Who can apply?
Academic and administrative staff, all university employees wishing to lead a project under their department, and students from all departments and degree levels are invited to apply.
Priority will be given to:
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Volunteer-based projects that leverage the academic resources and expertise of the university
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Projects with high potential for social impact
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Applicants with a strong track record in the field relevant to their proposal
Project duration: At least one year
Funding: Up to 60,000 NIS. Final funding decisions will be made by the committee.
Application deadline: August 4, 2025
Dr. Yair Tzadok Weil was a Bar-Ilan University graduate in biochemistry. He continued to doctoral and postdoctoral studies at UC Berkeley and the University of Chicago, and upon returning to Israel, became the Chief Scientist of Osem. As part of his public engagement, he served on Bar-Ilan’s Board of Trustees. After his passing, Dr. Weil’s family chose to honor his memory by establishing the Social Impact Projects Unit at Bar-Ilan University—encouraging volunteerism within the university community and harnessing the institution’s resources to strengthen Israeli society in all its diversity.
Projects supported by this program provide extraordinary opportunities for people from vulnerable communities to access, engage with, and benefit from the academic environment. At the same time, they offer students a unique chance to combine academic learning with hands-on social action—bringing them closer to society and empowering them to make a difference.