You may not realize it because it’s easy to get caught up in the daily work and needs of the job. But your church is a central piece to the success of your community. Churches and non-profits minister to people that other organizations often underserve; ministries care for the greater good of humanity, and they serve in ways that other charities can’t. And other people and organizations recognize the critical nature of your church’s ministry to make a positive difference in the community you serve. That’s why there are so many grant opportunities available to your church. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel; you don’t need to be isolated and go it alone. Here are five grant opportunities waiting to be tapped into for churches and ministries just like yours.
1. Google Ad Grants
Each qualifying nonprofit has access to up to $10,000 per month in search ads shown on Google.com. With Google's ad grants, your church or nonprofit can raise awareness, attract donors, and recruit new volunteers using Google search ads. Google Ad Grants shows your message to people searching for nonprofits like yours.
2. The Chatlos Foundation
The Chatlos Foundation’s areas of interest are Bible colleges/seminaries, religious causes, medical concerns, liberal arts, and social concerns. Since The Chatlos Foundation began in 1953, it has awarded over $118 million in grants to more than 10,000 non-profit organizations.
3. Church Communications and Marketing Grant Program
I mean, honestly, what kind of list would this be if we didn’t include Church Juice's own grant program? This program is for churches with a big idea, dream, or concept they’ve been sitting on. We're currently rebuilding our grant program, and expect this revisioned program to begin its accepting applicants in Summer 2024. Head to our grant page for more details.
Church Communications and Marketing Grants
4. Lilly Endowment
Lilly Endowment’s aim in religion grants is to deepen and enrich the religious lives of Christians, principally by supporting efforts that enhance the vitality of congregations. The Endowment values a broad diversity of Christian traditions and congregations today and endeavors to support them in a wide variety of contexts.
5. Wells Fargo Foundation
In the communities Wells Fargo serves, the Foundation primarily invests in non-profit organizations aligned with four focus areas: financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability and environmental justice but may consider grants to support other critical local needs and initiatives. Wells Fargo Foundation prioritizes non-profit programming supporting low- to moderate-income communities, addressing racial and social equity, and accelerating an inclusive economy.
This is just a snapshot of grant funding available to churches and nonprofit throughout Canada and the United States. Your church's denomination, affiliation, network, or tradition may have its own set of grants available to support your big idea or need. Additionally, check for local grant programs in your community or region. There are many companies, organizations, and foundations that gladly award funding to faith-based nonprofits because of the impact organizations like yours makes in its community!
