How To Get Community Grants For Churches

How Do I Get Community Grants For Churches – Are you a member of a church that needs funds for repairs, outreach services, or other expensive additions that your ministry or congregation cannot support? Well, you are definitely in luck! There are tons of community grants for churches throughout the United States of America for you to apply and get the right support.

Community grants for churches help to support their mission, initiatives, and programs that benefit the local community. By leveraging these resources, ministries and congregations can expand their programs within the communities and strengthen connections. These grants for churches will help you to repair, expand, and work effectively in your community. In this guide, we will shed light on the list of community grants for churches so you can get started.

What Are Free Community Grants For Churches?

Community grants for churches are financial assistance programs that are provided by the government, charitable organizations, foundations, or nonprofits. These sources of funding for churches help to support their projects that uplift the community. This includes outreach programs (like educational support, food banks and counseling services), renovations or repairs to church buildings or facilities, youth and family services, cultural or arts programs, and projects that address critical issues like poverty, homelessness, or addiction recovery.

Do you know you can qualify for various Church grants for youth? Yes you heard that right! Read our next guide to know more about it.

List of Grants for Churches

Churches and faith-based organizations can apply for tons of community grants for churches from the government, foundations, and companies. Here is the list of examples that you can apply to.

Federal Grants for Churches

You can receive community government grants for church at the local state and federal level. Following are some options to consider:

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers the Community Development Block Grants that offer funding for a variety of purposes. The HUD grants for churches provide assistance to local governments for different community development projects, including church-based programs that address job training, housing, and other services.

• Eligibility: Churches and faith-based organizations need to partner with the local county or city government in order to receive CDBG funding.
• How to Apply: Must apply through local government offices.
• Grant Amount: May vary depending on the budget allocation of the local government.

Grants.Gov

Grants.gov is a government database of federally sponsored grants that are maintained and operated by the US Office of Management and Budget. Those who are looking for community grants for churches can browse grants issued by more than 25 government agencies and filter specifically for church funding opportunities. In order to get government community grants for churches in the USA, you need to create an account with Grants.Gov, complete it, and submit an application within the deadline.

• Eligibility. The federal grants have unique eligibility criteria for you to fulfill.
• How to Apply: Create an account on the website and complete the required forms.
• Grant Amount. May vary.

GrantWatch

You can use other grant databases like GrantWatch to identify local, state, and federal programs for your church. They allow people to search and apply for grants all in one place. A few options may require a paid subscription to access all the grants that the platform has to offer.

• Eligibility. May vary depending on the program you’re applying for.
• How to Apply: Create an account on the website and complete the required forms.
• Grant Amount. May vary.

Are you looking for energy efficiency grants for churches? Then take a look at our next guide and know how to apply for them.

Companies and Foundations That Offer Community Grants For Churches

Wells Fargo Foundation

The Wells Fargo Foundation mainly invests in charitable organizations and nonprofit organizations that align with their focus areas:  housing affordability, financial health, sustainability, environmental justice, and small business growth. They prioritize churches or nonprofits that work with low- or moderate-income families and help to address racial and social equity. They can also consider grants for supporting local initiatives and needs.

• Eligibility: Must be a tax-exempt organization under IRS code 501(c)(3), provide services that meets the critical needs of the community and be located in the U.S
• How to Apply: Must submit a Grant Interest Form on the official website or call at 1-888-235-4351.
• Grant Amount: May vary.

Lilly Endowment Inc.

The mission of Lilly Endowment Inc. in Religion Grants is to enrich and deepen the religious lives of Christians in America by supporting programs that boost the vitality of congregations. They focus on nurturing the religious lives of the children, young adults, and youth and share the vibrancy and beauty of Christian faith with a new generation. They offer community grants for churches for various purposes, including community outreach, leadership development, and theological education.

• Eligibility: Primarily Christian organizations and congregations throughout the United States of America.
• How to Apply: Must visit the Lily Endowments website for in-depth details or contact at (317) 924-5271.
• Grant Amount: May vary depending on the purpose and the program of the church.

The United Methodist Church Foundation (UMCF)

The United Methodist Church offers tons of grants and assistance to churches that demonstrate the ability and intention to make disciples of Jesus Christ. They provide church-based community programs, including poverty relief, youth engagement, and outreach services. For detailed information, you can contact them at 615-369-2382.

• Eligibility: Grants and assistants are primarily designed for the United Methodist Church; however, a few other denominations can also apply for assistance.
• How to Apply: All details about the application process can be found on the official website.
• Grant Amount: May vary depending on the church project.

The Mustard Seed Foundation

The Mustard Seed Foundation is another excellent resource to get community grants for churches. The foundation shares the gospel with non-Christians and equips Christians to demonstrate the gospel and better proclaim and generate income and economic decision-making opportunities for poor Christians. They provide seed funding through matching grants for startup projects of faith-based organizations in the largest urban centers of the world.

• Eligibility: Must be a church-led project in urban areas that focuses on providing outreach services to underserved populations in the USA.
• How to Apply: Contact the organization at their website. A staff member will respond to your query and will send you a grant application form to complete.
• Grant Amount: $5000.

The Home Depot Foundation

The Home Depot Foundation supports various community projects, including church-sponsored initiatives that aim to offer disaster relief for local communities or improve the quality of life for low-income individuals and veterans. They have partnered with the United Methodist Church for supporting parsonages and churches that need repairs due to disasters. If you are looking for grants for church repairs, then you can apply to the Home Depot Foundation.

• Eligibility: Must be a 501 ©(3) organization or church that aims to focus on community improvement, disaster response, and housing facilities.
• How to Apply: The application process is made through the foundation’s official website. For detailed information, you can contact them at 1-800-466-3337.
• Grant Amount: $5000 to $25,000.

Walmart Community Grant Program

The Walmart Spark Good Program provides community grants for churches and many faith-based organizations that benefit the community through services like food banks, social services, and housing. Every year, Walmart US stores, distribution centers, and Sam’s clubs provide local cash grants to organizations and churches that address the unique needs of the communities.

• Eligibility: Churches and faith-based organizations must be registered as 501(c)(3) organizations or be recognized government entities. The funding must focus on community development, hunger relief, and disaster preparedness.
• How to Apply: Online application through Walmart Foundations web page.
• Grant Amount: $250 to $5000.

Bank of America Charitable Foundation

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations, including churches, that work to address critical problems related to economic mobility like workforce development, community development, and education.

• Eligibility: Must be a 501(c)(3) organization, including churches.
• How to Apply: To apply, churches must complete the eligibility quiz prior to receiving access to the online application portal.
• Grant Amount: May vary depending on the availability of funds and your mission.

Google Ad Grants

With the Google Ad Grants, your nonprofit organization or church can attract donors, raise awareness, and recruit new volunteers with the help of Google search ads. Every qualifying nonprofit or church can access assistance up to $10,000 monthly in search ads that are shown on Google.com. Google ad grants will show your message to people who are searching for churches like yours.

• Eligibility: Churches must be registered as 501(c)(3) organizations and must have a high-quality website that meets the website policy of Google.
• How to Apply: Must complete the Ad Grant eligibility form and have an active Google for Nonprofits account.
• Grant Amount: Up to $10000.

Church Communications and Marketing Grant Program

The Church Communication and Mentorship Grant Program is a 5-month online learning community provided for free to all participants. The program provides a select group of like-minded people for invaluable training, resources, and caring support that work. If you’re looking for community grants for churches, then you must not miss out on this unique opportunity to elevate your church’s communication. You can hear from industry experts, collaborate with their peers, and gain the financial support that you need to thrive.

• Eligibility: Participate in 6 to 8 hours every month for the mentorship program.
• How to Apply: Call at 616-942-9383 or visit the official website.
• Grant Amount: Free mentorship program worth $2000.

The Chatlos Foundation

The main focus areas of The Chatlos Foundation are religious causes, Bible colleges or seminars, liberal arts, medical concerns, and social concern. Started in 1953, the foundation has awarded grants up to $118 million to more than 10,000 nonprofit and faith-based organizations.

• Eligibility: Must have 501(c)(3) status.
• How to Apply: Submit online application with relevant documents or call at (407)862-5077.
• Grant Amount: $5000-$15000.

The Glaser Family Foundation 

The Glaser Family Foundation offers grants to help organizations and even churches with getting assistance to carry out their mission. They provide assistance to organizations that focus on strengthening cultural and educational opportunities to protect children’s health and support Christian ministries.

• Eligibility. Must serve the community in Fannin County.
• How to Apply: Visit the official website. For more details contact them at 903.583.4241.
• Grant Amount: Unspecified amount.

Foundation for the Carolinas

Foundation For The Carolinas offers dozens of competitive free grants for churches to invest in communities throughout their region. The organization offers innovative solutions to help companies, nonprofits and churches bring their charitable visions to life. Established in 1958, the foundation is now one of the largest community foundations in America. For detailed information, you can contact them at 704-973-4500.

• Eligibility: Nonprofits, congregations, churches, religious organizations, educational institutions, and governmental agencies. The eligibility of churches to get FTC grants is decided using the guidance provided in IRS publication 1828.
• How to Apply: Visit the Online Grant Center for determining if your work aligns with the foundation’s programs and complete the online application.
• Grant Amount: The grant amount may vary in size depending on the program you are applying to.

Duke Endowment: Rural Church Grants

The Duke Endowment is committed to preserving the significant role churches play in uplifting rural communities. The foundation supports churches, clergy, and congregations so that they can access the right tools to strengthen the rural areas. They also help the United Methodist churches that are making significant contributions in the communities.

• Eligibility. Must be an eligible United Methodist Church or organization, and the proposed project must fit within the strategic pathways.
• How to Apply: The application process is made through the foundation’s official website or call at 704-376-0291.
• Grant Amount: May Vary.

North Carolina Community Foundations, Inc.

The North Carolina Community Foundation is one of the single statewide community foundations that serves North Carolina and offers grants up to $116 million since its inception in 1988. The organization has partnered with many affiliate foundations to offer small grants for churches across the state.

• Eligibility. An organization must be a tax-exempt public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or below a unit of the local government.
• How to Apply: Contact the organization at their website or call at 929-828-4387.
• Grant size: $500 to $5000.
• Types of Grants:
  Community Grantmaking- Lee County Community Foundation Grants that help with $500 to $5000.

Currituck Dare Women’s Fund Grant that assists with $500 to $2500 grants for churches and organizations.

Community Grantmaking- Granville County Community Foundation Grants that help churches with community grants up to $1000 to $4000.

Community Grantmaking- Currituck Dare Unrestricted Fund Grant helps churches with $500 to $2000.

We Raise Foundation

We Raise Foundation offers faith-based grants for churches and assistance to nonprofits that work at the intersection of violence, poverty and inequality in America. The foundation offers emerging leader grants and GrandPlus grants.

• Eligibility: Must be a Christian organization that serves under resource communities.
• How to Apply: Must complete the online application within the deadline. You can contact them at 800.762.6748.
• Grant Amount: Varied amount.

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development (CCHD)

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development provides grants to churches, faith-based organizations, and individuals for anti-poverty programs. They offer grants mainly to Christian and Catholic churches to strengthen the community and promote economic development or justice. They offer community development grant programs, economic development grant programs, and strategic national grant programs.

• Eligibility: Should be a Catholic or Christian Church.
• How to Apply: Through the official website of CCHD. For detailed information, you can contact them at 202-541-3365.
• Grant Amount: $25,000 to $75,000 per project.

Florida United Methodist Foundation

The Florida United Methodist Foundation offers grants to churches, ministry, school organizations and agencies rooted in the resilient tradition. They support their mission and make a transformative impact in the lives of low-income communities.

• Eligibility: Must be Christian congregations in the US and have 501(c)(3) status.
• How to Apply: The church invites you to download the grant application and submit it on the official website. You can contact them at 863-904-2970.
• Grant Amount: May vary depending on the purpose.

Conrad N. Hilton Fund for Sisters

The Hilton Fund for Sisters is committed to supporting the Apostolic work of Catholic sisters across the globe to help vulnerable and disadvantaged people. To date, they have given 15385 grants worth $181,257,095 to 824 congregations in 160 countries.

• Eligibility: A request for funding should be presented by a vowed member of a women’s religious congregation that is recognized officially by the Roman Catholic Church’s office of CICLSAL.
• How to Apply:: Must submit online grant application.
• Grants: Up to $25,000.

Catholic United Financial

The Catholic United Financial is a not-for-profit financial service organization that connects people of faith and provides terms of grants to help Catholic schools, parishes, ministries, and organizations in the upper Midwest do good to the communities. They provide event sponsorship, color matching grants, member assistance grants, education technology grants, disaster recovery matching grants, and many other assistants.

• Eligibility: The grant is limited to organizations and individuals located in areas where the Catholic United Financial is licensed to operate like Minnesota, North Dakota, Iowa, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
• How to Apply: The grant applications are accepted online through the official website. For any queries, you can contact 1-877-275-7145.
• Grant Amount: $500 to $1000.

The Pratt Family Foundation Inc.

The Pratt Family Foundation Inc. actively supports and engages in a number of organizations and provides them grants to support their mission. For more details you can email them at [email protected].

• Eligibility:  Must be established and recognized religious organizations like churches, charitable foundations, colleges, and universities. They must be qualified as a tax-exempt organization in America.
• How to Apply: You must visit the official website and make sure your church mission is aligned with youth services, domestic violence, disaster relief, or humanitarian aid.
• Grant Amount: Unspecified amount.

Crowell Trust

The mission of Crowell Charitable Trust is to promote social justice, education, health, and the arts in the community.

• Eligibility: The trust supports many international and national organizations, including charitable institutions and churches that are recognized as such by the IRS 501(c) (3).
• How to Apply: Must complete the online application form on the official website.
• Grant Amount: Up to $10,000.

Brotherhood Mutual Foundation- Kingdom Advancing Grant

The Kingdom Advancing Grant by Brotherhood Mutual Foundation supports church teams who transform the lives of communities in collaborative and innovative ways. For more details email them to: [email protected].

• Eligibility: The project must involve a unique idea that supports the lives of the community. Must make sure your church program transforms local communities through ministry.
• How to Apply: Must meet the eligibility standards mentioned in the official website and support relevant documents.
• Grant Amount: $20,000 to $50,000 annually.

ELCA GrantMaker

The ELCA grants and scholarships support congregations, the ministries of individuals, companion and partner churches and synods. The financial support helps the organization to engage in ministries in the United States and across the globe. The grant is designed for empowering and supporting ministries within a church community.

• Eligibility: An organization must be a tax-exempt public charity under 501 ©(3) and must promote the well-being of low-income residents.
• How to Apply: Applications are submitted online through its official website.
• Grant Amount: May vary.

Calvin Institute of Christian Worship

The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship offers a worshiping community grant to support year-long projects of churches and faith-based organizations that help connect public worship with Christian discipleship and faith formation.

• Eligibility: Churches, church plants, seminars, religious schools, congregations, parishes, or other Christian worshiping communities with tax-exempt status.
• How to Apply: Must visit the official website of the organization. For more details you may contact them at 616-526-6088
• Grant Amount: $8000 to $25,000 each.

The Foundation For Evangelism- Local Church Grant 

The Foundation for Evangelism offers funds to eligible churches and faith-based organizations for supporting evangelistic or discipleship activity. For more details you may contact them at 838-454-6800.

• Eligibility: Must be a Christian church, organization or individuals engaged in evangelism and discipline-making efforts.
• Applications: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year.
• Amount: $1000 to $10,000.

How Can I Apply For Community Grants For Churches Near Me?

Finding suitable community grants for churches can be time-consuming since the eligibility and application process are quite competitive. However, by devoting your time and effort, you can easily secure community grants for your church. You can use the following steps to get started.

• Review Your Mission. It is important to review your church’s mission and goals. This will help you target the grantmakers accordingly and create a compelling grant proposal.
• Streamline Your Search Process: As you know, there are numerous community grants for churches in 2024, but you can’t apply for all. So you can refine your search with keywords that relate to your goals, commission, and specific project.
• Understand The Eligibility Criteria: To obtain community grants for churches, you need to review the eligibility criteria carefully and make sure the proposed project aligns with the mission of the grant.
• Develop Your Project Proposal: You need to gather relevant documents and develop your project proposal. This includes a few important components like a cover letter, executive summary, goals and objectives, statement of need or budget information, plan or evolution, methods and strategies, and organizational background.
• Apply For Grants With Similar Values: A foundation with similar values to your ministry can provide faith-based grants for churches that will suit your funding requirements. For instance, if your church focuses on supporting children, youth, and sports, then you must look for similar organizations that do the same. In this way, you have a greater chance to qualify.

Want to apply for the Department Of Homeland Security Grants for Churches? Head to our next guide and know how to secure your place.

Conclusion

To sum up, applying for community grants for churches are a critical resource that can help you support your church’s outreach programs, services, building renovations, youth initiatives and other missions. By exploring the aforementioned grants and understanding the eligibility criteria set by individual grant funders, churches can boost their chance to secure the right fund to carry out their aims effectively. It is important to note that while seeking grant opportunities, you need to make sure you apply for programs that align with your church’s goals and objectives.

Check out our blogs at GrantsBuddy to avail free church assistance programs for low-income families. Our guide has numerous supportive programs and names of churches that help people in times of need.

Frequently Asked Questions

How To Get Free Money For Churches?

To get free community grants for churches in the USA, you must apply for tons of assistance programs and grants sponsored by the government, nonprofits, and foundations.

How To Get HVAC Grants For Churches?

There are many grants and programs for churches to improve their energy efficiency and HVAC systems such as Renew America’s Nonprofits Program, Dr. Scholl Foundation, Inflation Reduction Act, CHIPS and Science Act, South Carolina Interfaith Power & Light to name a few.

How To Get Funding For Church Building?

There are many ways to get grants for church building, for instance, online fundraising, peer-to-peer fundraising, applying for grant funding, crowdfunding and capital campaigns, and recurring donations.