Launched this month, digital platform SHOOQ matches Jewish media projects with funders seeking to support storytelling across film, television, podcasts and social media.Follow us on Google SHOOQ nonprofit digital platform is designed to connect Jewish media projects with investors, studios, foundations, media funds, philanthropists, and other funding partners interested in supporting Jewish storytelling. (illustrative)(photo credit: Israel+)ByHANNAH BROWNSEPTEMBER 22, 2026 22:21

As a global wave of antisemitism presents challenges for Jewish creators in the entertainment industry, a new initiative called SHOOQ aims to level the playing field by matching artists and producers with donors who would like to help them realize their creative visions.

The nonprofit digital platform, launched this month, is designed to connect Jewish media projects with investors, studios, foundations, media funds, philanthropists, and other funding partners interested in supporting Jewish storytelling.

Named after the Hebrew word for marketplace, SHOOQ features projects in film, television, podcasts, and social-media video. According to its founders, funding can be sought for development, production, or marketing and distribution of completed projects.

Unlike crowdfunding sites, SHOOQ does not raise or manage money itself. Instead, prospective funders create profiles outlining their interests, preferred genres, funding ranges, and other criteria, while creators submit projects for consideration.

When there is a potential match, SHOOQ facilitates an introduction, with any subsequent investment or grant negotiations taking place directly between the parties.

Today’s youths prefer to share their feelings and emotions through texts and online, in social media, in chat platforms while gaming and in other similar settings (credit: SNAPPY GOAT)Veteran producers launch platform to support Jewish creators

The platform was founded by veteran producers and financiers Ari Pinchot and Jonathan Rubenstein, who have worked in film and television for more than 30 years. The two have also produced the Roast of Anti-Semitism comedy event in Los Angeles and run the Jewish Writers Institute with the Maimonides Fund.

“Great stories shape culture,” Pinchot said. “And for the past several years, outstanding Jewish creators have struggled to secure the funding needed to bring their projects to life.”

SHOOQ’s advisory board includes Ben Silverman, former co-chairman of NBC and an executive producer of The Office; Micah Green, CEO of 30West; Tanya Cohen, co-CEO of Made by Us; actress and producer Emmanuelle Chriqui; producer Anthony Bregman; and representatives of Keshet International.

SHOOQ founders cite rise in antisemitism after October 7

The founders said the project was developed in response to the sharp rise in antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment following the October 7 attacks, as well as what they view as a need for more Jewish and Israeli stories to reach international audiences.

“There is an enormous amount of money being spent to rewrite history and vilify Jews and Israel,” Rubenstein said. “We can’t afford to keep competing with one another for the same limited resources. We need to come together under one roof, pool our resources, and give our best storytellers the support they need to get impactful projects made.”

SHOOQ opens registration to creators and prospective funders

Participation is free for prospective funders, and joining does not require a financial commitment. Funders can choose to participate anonymously or maintain a public profile.

SHOOQ is currently accepting registrations from creators seeking financing as well as investors, studios, funds, foundations, and other organizations interested in supporting projects.

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