A church grant from one of the 86,000 grantmaking entities can significantly transform a church’s financial standing. Let’s explore how church grants can boost your church’s reach.
What Are Church Grants and Does My Church Need Them?
Grants for churches are financial gifts from governments, foundations, or organizations that help fund specific church projects or needs. Since they don’t have to be repaid, they’re a great way to support your church’s mission.
Here’s why your church should consider grants:
- No Repayment Needed: Grants are like gifts — no payback required.
- Increase Community Impact: Grants allow your church to start new initiatives that benefit the community.
- Enhance Credibility: Receiving a grant can grow your church’s reputation and attract more support.
- Diversify Funding: They provide a steady income source beyond tithes and donations.
Top 5 Grants Available for Churches
The Lilly Endowment National Clergy Renewal Program
This program offers grants to churches across the United States, allowing pastors to step away from their daily responsibilities for renewal and reflection. The grant can cover expenses related to the pastor’s sabbatical and the church’s activities during their absence.
To qualify, your church needs to submit a detailed proposal outlining the intended renewal activities and the expected benefits for both the pastor and the congregation.
The Mustard Seed Foundation Grants
The Mustard Seed Foundation offers grants to churches that engage in innovative ministries in urban areas. These grants focus on projects that serve the poor and marginalized, especially in cities.
To qualify, your church must be involved in a project that aligns with the foundation’s mission to spread the gospel through service and demonstrate how the grant will directly support this work.
Walmart Foundation Community Grants
The Walmart Foundation provides community grants to churches and other local organizations that address community needs like hunger relief, education, and disaster preparedness. These grants are available to churches that demonstrate a strong connection to their local community and a clear plan for using the funds to benefit others.
Google Ad Grants
Google Ad Grants provide churches with up to $10,000 per month in free Google Search advertising, helping you reach a broader audience, promote events, and attract new members.
To qualify, your church must be a registered nonprofit, meet Google’s eligibility criteria, and have a functional website. Once approved, you can use targeted ads to boost your church’s online presence and drive website traffic.
The Chatlos Foundation
The Chatlos Foundation provides grants to Christian organizations, including churches. These grants support projects focused on outreach, education, and leadership development. To qualify, your church must be a registered nonprofit with a clear Christian mission. Applications require a detailed project description and goals.
Conclusion
These are just a few grants available for churches. Whether you’re looking to enhance your ministries, renovate your facilities, or support pastoral staff, there’s likely a grant that fits your needs. Tap into more federal or local grants by searching Google or grants.gov.
For more helpful church fundraising tips and resources, visit the Church Giving blog.
