As a non-profit Jewish organization, its stated mission was to "forge vibrant connections to Judaism through music, media and cultural events."
In its start-up phase, JDub focused on developing a small cadre of artists, including Matisyahu, Socalled, and Balkan Beat Box.
The event brought Israeli, Palestinian, Jewish, and American Muslim performers including Matisyahu, Sagol 59, TN (Tamer Nafar), and Mooke.
In December 2009, JDub announced a strategic partnership with Nextbook[7] which publishes books in collaboration with Random House's Shocken imprint,[8] and produces Tablet Magazine.
[9] According to the JTA: "Under the partnership, the two organizations will remain separate and will still produce their own records and books and cultural materials, but JDub will essentially become Nextbook’s in-house marketing and PR department."