Financial help for new churches

Starting a new church can be a daunting task, and financial support is often a significant challenge. Here are some potential sources of financial help for new churches:

  1. Church Planting Organizations: Many organizations, such as the North American Mission Board (NAMB), the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA), and the Assemblies of God (AG), offer financial support and resources for church planting.
  2. Denominational Support: Many denominations, such as the Southern Baptist Convention, the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, and the Presbyterian Church (USA), provide financial support for church planting and new church development.
  3. Grants and Funding: There are various grants and funding opportunities available for new churches, such as the Church Planting Grant from the Lilly Endowment, the Church Planting Fund from the Christian Reformed Church, and the New Church Development Grant from the United Methodist Church.
  4. Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe, Kickstarter, and Indiegogo can be used to raise funds for specific projects or initiatives within a new church.
  5. Local Community Support: New churches can also seek support from local community organizations, businesses, and individuals who may be interested in supporting a new church plant.
  6. Online Giving Platforms: Online giving platforms like Church Community Builder, Pushpay, and Aplos can help new churches receive donations and manage their finances more efficiently.
  7. Church Planting Networks: Joining a church planting network, such as the Church Planting Network (CPN) or the Association of Church Planting Leaders (ACPL), can provide access to resources, mentorship, and financial support.
  8. Government Funding: In some cases, government agencies may provide funding for church planting initiatives, such as the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program in the United States.
  9. Faith-Based Organizations: Organizations like the Salvation Army, the YMCA, and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America may provide funding and resources for church planting initiatives that align with their mission and values.
  10. Private Donors: Private donors, such as individuals or foundations, may also provide financial support for new churches, often with specific requirements or restrictions.

Some specific financial assistance programs for new churches include:

It's essential to research and understand the eligibility criteria, application process, and requirements for each funding opportunity. Additionally, new churches should also explore alternative funding sources, such as in-kind donations, volunteer labor, and creative fundraising initiatives, to supplement their financial needs.