New platform aims to help Jewish creators reach audiences worldwide

The new SHOOQ network, an online platform launched by Ari Pinchot and Jonathan Rubenstein, aims to connect Jewish filmmakers and creators with investors to bring Jewish stories to mainstream audiences. The platform, whose name means "marketplace" in Hebrew, seeks to address the challenge Jewish creators face in securing funding for their projects. According to Pinchot, "Great stories shape culture. And for the past several years, outstanding Jewish creators have struggled to secure the funding needed to bring their projects to life." SHOOQ acts as a matchmaking service, facilitating direct funding between creators and investors, and offers access to industry consultants. The advisory board includes notable figures such as former NBC co-chairman Ben Silverman and actress Emmanuelle Chriqui. The initiative seeks to counter narratives that "rewrite history and vilify Jews and Israel," as stated by Rubenstein.