The Creation Care Committee is seeking to assist local churches in creating a new local church Creation Care team or to assist existing local church Creation Care teams with a project. Grant applications are open through May 1, 2024.
Grants
Upcoming Grant, Scholarship & Loan Opportunities
The NC Conference recommends the following grants, scholarships, and loans available to United Methodist churches and ministry leaders in the North Carolina Conference. These programs are funded by the Conference or our partner organizations.
The funding opportunities listed here have application deadlines in the near future. Additional opportunities have deadlines coming up later in the year. View the complete list at Grants, Scholarships & Loans.
Upcoming Deadlines
Peace with Justice
NC CONFERENCE BOARD OF CHURCH AND SOCIETY
Is your church ready to step beyond charity and into solidarity and justice ministries? Funded by Peace with Justice Sunday offerings, these grants are possible because Methodists share their gifts generously and share the vision of justice ministries.
Applications Due 1/8/24 or 3/31/24. Learn more and apply now→
New or Emerging Young People’s Ministry Awards
UNITED METHODIST RURAL ADVOCATES
The United Methodist Rural Advocates are now offering (5) $500 New or Emerging Young People’s Ministry Awards to United Methodist rural, or town and country churches within the United States.
Applications Due 1/10/24. Learn more and apply now→
Youth Service Fund
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
YSF is money raised BY Youth, spent BY Youth to benefit Youth. Our YSF Task Force is made up of the Conference Youth Treasurer and one youth representative from each district who determine how YSF monies from the NC Conference are spent.
Applications Due 1/31/24. Learn more and apply now→
Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Ministry Grants
UNITED METHODIST COMMITTEE ON DEAF AND HARD-OF-HEARING MINISTRIES
Grant requests are typically approved for new ministries or for existing ministries that are adding a new program (such as an interpreting ministry expanding to include a hard-of-hearing ministry).
Applications Due 1/31/24. Learn more and apply now→
Intentional Growth Center
SOUTHEASTERN JURISDICTION OF THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
The IGC seeks to fund educational events or programs that increase pastoral and congregational effectiveness in order to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Applications Due 2/1/24. Learn more and apply now→
Reynolds Ministry Fund
UNITED METHODIST FOUNDATION OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA
If your church or organization has an idea to engage the community – but isn’t sure how to pay for it – a Reynolds grant can help. Every penny is distributed in the hope that new disciples will be made.
Applications Due 2/1/24. Learn more and apply now→
Creating New Economies Fund
RESOURCEFUL COMMUNITIES
CNEF provides direct investment in community-based efforts. A portion of CNEF funds is available to help rural United Methodist Churches strengthen food ministries.
Applications Due 2/16/24. Learn more and apply now→
Come to the Table
RURAL ADVANCEMENT FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL
United Methodist churches in rural North Carolina can apply to receive funding to purchase food from a local farmer of color. Churches must use these funds to purchase food from a designated farmer of color to distribute to food-insecure community members.
Applications Due 2/16/24. Learn more and apply now→
Josephine Forman Scholarship
GENERAL COMMISSION ON ARCHIVES AND HISTORY
GCAH funds the Josephine Forman scholarship each year to provide financial support to minority students pursuing graduate education in archival science, to encourage students to pursue a career as an archivist, and to promote the diversification of the American archives profession.
Applications Due 2/28/24. Learn more and apply now→
Equipping the Local Church Grant
THE FOUNDATION FOR EVANGELISM
The grant focus is to launch an experiment or initiative to share the Gospel, tell their faith stories, and invite others into a relationship with Jesus. It seeks to empower pastors, laity, and smaller local congregations to dream, take risks, and partner with God in the transformation of lives and communities.
Applications Due 2/29/24. Learn more and apply now→
UMHEF Scholarships
UNITED METHODIST HIGHER EDUCATION FOUNDATION
UMHEF scholarships help make it financially possible for qualifying students to obtain higher education, especially those attending United Methodist-related institutions.
Applications Due 3/1/24. Learn more and apply now→
Racial-Ethnic Local Church Grants
GENERAL BOARD OF GLOBAL MINISTRIES
These grants assist local congregations with projects and programs focusing on leadership development, church growth and development, ministry with the poor, and health ministries. Applicant churches must have at least a 51% majority nonwhite congregation.
Applications Due 3/1/24. Learn more and apply now→
Multiethnic Ministries Grants
GENERAL BOARD OF GLOBAL MINISTRIES
These grants of up to $15,000 are provided to assist annual conferences with programs focusing on racial-ethnic leadership development and racial-ethnic church growth and development.
Applications Due 3/1/24. Learn more and apply now→
Ministerial Education Fund
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Certified Candidates from the NC Conference are eligible to apply for Ministerial Education Funds. Aid may be granted to students during their junior and senior years in undergraduate school and in each of their seminary years while working on the basic degree for ordination.
Applications Due 3/13/24. Learn more and apply now→
GBHEM Scholarships
GENERAL BOARD OF HIGHER EDUCATION AND MINISTRY
Students can submit one general application, which will be screened for all possible eligible programs. Applicant must be an active, full member of The United Methodist Church for at least one year and pursuing a degree program at an accredited institution within the U.S.
Applications Due 3/13/24. Learn more and apply now→
Clergy Renewal Programs
LILLY ENDOWMENT
National Clergy Renewal Programs provide an opportunity for pastors to step away briefly from the persistent obligations of daily parish life and engage in a period of renewal and reflection.
Applications Due 3/13/24. Learn more and apply now→
Grants/Awards for Students and Researchers
GENERAL COMMISSION ON ARCHIVES AND HISTORY
GCAH is calling for students and researchers to apply for grants and awards offered in a number of fields of study, including United Methodist history, particularly as it relates to women and ethnic groups, and archival science.
Applications Due 3/17/24. Learn more and apply now→
Comprehensive Plan of Inclusiveness
NC CONFERENCE RACE EQUITY & JUSTICE MINISTRIES
The project must relate to the CPI and must be developed by one or more United Methodist local church(es) with priority given to ethnic churches. The project must address one or more chronic social problems or concerns that impact United Methodist ethnic local churches or ethnic persons.
Applications Due 3/31/24. Learn more and apply now→
Global Youth Service Fund
DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRIES OF THE UMC
The Global YSF is a unique grant program within the UMC because all aspects involve youth. Youth create fundraisers and contribute money, youth decide what projects receive money, and all of the projects supported must be youth-designed, led by youth, and benefit young people.
Applications Due 4/15/24. Learn more and apply now→
Grants for Ministries with Young People
DISCIPLESHIP MINISTRIES OF THE UMC
Young People’s Ministries offers these grants through our program budget because we believe that dynamic, creative individuals and groups sometimes need resources to help a ministry become reality. These grants are meant to support creative and innovative approaches to ministry for, with, and by young people.
Applications Due 4/15/24. Learn more and apply now→
Rolling Deadlines
The following opportunities accept applications throughout the year or on a rolling basis. Follow each link for more information.
Course of Study
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The NC Conference provides reimbursement of registration costs for the Course of Study programs, including Basic and Advanced COS.
Continuing Education
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Continuing Education funds are for clergy currently under appointment. Applicants must be a member of the North Carolina Annual Conference. Opportunities include Clinical Pastoral Education, Holy Land trips, and more.
Clergy Counseling
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The Clergy Care Committee provides financial assistance to clergy families of the NC Conference who seek confidential counseling and therapy.
Board of Mission Church Loans
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The Board of Mission, Inc. is primarily a low-interest lending organization. Loan applications are considered on a cash-available basis. Loans are also considered on a missional basis. Churches receiving missional priority are those in low-income neighborhoods and those needing more space to engage in cross-cultural and cross-racial programs. Some matching grant funding is available to churches needing repairs or replacement of vital building components.
UMVIM Missional Exchange Grants
NC CONFERENCE UNITED METHODIST VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION
Missional Exchange Grants are intended to encourage UMVIM initiatives by various groups. Team leader training by the Conference UMVIM Committee is required to qualify for this grant. Additionally, teams seeking this grant must register for insurance through UMVIM, SEJ.
UMVIM Scholarships for Individuals
NC CONFERENCE UNITED METHODIST VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION
NCC UMVIM offers scholarships to individuals from several different funds created over the years, including the Isa Grant Scholarship Fund, Amanda Lee Scholarship Fund, and Jason K. Branton Scholarship Fund.
Golden Cross
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Golden Cross is a ministry that reaches out in love to the laity in our Annual Conference who are experiencing financial difficulty due to excessive medical expenses. Recipients must be active United Methodist members and be recommended for assistance by their pastor.
One Who is Loved
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
United Methodist Foundation is a trustee of this special endowment that makes possible love gifts to benefit children under the age of 18 who have special needs such as specialized medical equipment or supplies/medicine, transportation to hospitals or treatment centers, or other special needs. Pastors of the NC Conference are encouraged to recommend children for the fund.
Leadership Grant Assistance
NC CONFERENCE STRENGTHENING THE BLACK CHURCH MINISTRIES
Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century is a program designed to assist United Methodist churches with predominantly Black congregations to become effective in mission and ministry.
Hispanic-Latinx Ministries
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The NC Annual Conference offers funding to enable Pilgrimage participation by Hispanic/Latinx youth.
Refugee and Immigrant Communities
NC CONFERENCE REFUGEE & IMMIGRATION COMMITTEE
Churches can now complete one of three short Google forms to request monetary assistance to assist refugees and immigrants for: Refugees’ or immigrants’ filing and legal fees; Refugees’ or immigrants’ resettlement and transition expenses; Projects impacting the refugee/immigrant community.
Retired/Medical Leave Clergy Grants
THE SHEPHERD’S FUND
A retired pastor and their spouse can qualify for a one-time grant of up to $10,000 each or $20,000 total. They may reapply in subsequent years, especially if they have a chronic ongoing medical condition. Grants may also be given to pastors on medical leave and their spouses, or widows of pastors. Grants may also be given to retired pastors or pastors on medical leave that are legal custodians for their adult children that may have a medical issue from childhood. Grants may also be given to retired pastors or pastors on medical leave that are legal custodians for their grandchildren that may have a medical crisis or issue, regardless of age.
Farmer Fund Grant
WESPATH
Distressed clergy members or former clergy members of an annual conference; their spouses, former spouses, former surviving spouses; or surviving dependent children (including adult dependent children) are eligible to apply for a grant. The applicant is required to attach additional documentation pertaining to any unusual medical, legal, or other expenses that have created this one-time emergency situation.
Local Church Marketing Services
UNITED METHODIST COMMUNICATIONS
United Methodist Communications offers marketing services and promotional grants to United Methodist congregations active in their communities and need support and guidance in reaching new people in new ways.
UMCOR Grants
UNITED METHODIST COMMITTEE ON RELIEF
UMCOR offers grants for Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation, Relief, Recovery, and Migration. UMCOR’s core values of equality and justice, respect with dignity, and good stewardship are reflected in UMCOR’s grant-making priorities.
Multiethnic Ministries Grants
GENERAL BOARD OF GLOBAL MINISTRIES
GBGM accepts applications monthly for Asian American Language Ministry grants, Community Developers Program Seed grants, Community Engagement grants – United Methodist Voluntary Service, Native American Ministries grants, and Pacific Islander Ministry Plan grants.
Upcoming Grant, Scholarship & Loan Opportunities
The NC Conference recommends the following grants, scholarships, and loans available to United Methodist churches and ministry leaders in the North Carolina Conference. These programs are funded by the Conference or our partner organizations.
The funding opportunities listed here have application deadlines in the near future. Additional opportunities have deadlines coming up later in the year. View the complete list at Grants, Scholarships & Loans.
Upcoming Deadlines
Rural Church Grants
THE DUKE ENDOWMENT
The Duke Endowment is committed to preserving the pivotal role churches play in rural communities. We support clergy and congregations — ensuring they have the tools to walk faithfully together — as they strengthen rural areas. We help United Methodist Churches make greater contributions that have lasting, positive impacts in their communities.
Applications Due 10/3/23. Learn more and apply now→
Mission Seed Funds
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Mission Seed Funds are designed to facilitate and encourage United Methodist congregations of the NC Conference to engage in new ministry with people in their local communities who would not usually participate in the life of the church. Priority is given to new ministry initiatives that meet at least one of the five areas of emphasis of the NCCUMC: Healthy Congregations, Congregations for Children (C4C), Unity, Anti-racism, and Effective Leaders.
Applications Due 10/20/23. Learn more and apply now→
Mustard Seed Migration Grants
UNITED METHODIST COMMITTEE ON RELIEF
UMCOR will award grants of $2,000 USD to up to 100 United Methodist local churches to engage in new, one-time community-based service projects and ministries focused on migrants and refugees. We also encourage participating congregations to think about what they might do on a long-term basis, how they might get involved in advocacy to address systemic injustices present in immigration policy or consider how they might more completely live into a new understanding of church as the kingdom of God, actively engaged in caring for the most vulnerable in the community.
Applications Due 11/1/23. Learn more and apply now→
Clergy Loan Program
UNITED METHODIST FOUNDATION
The Clergy Loan Program was created out of the desire to help clergy and their families to escape paralyzing debt that can have a negative effect not only on the individual and family but also on relationships within the church family. Our hope is that through participation in this program clergy will find new and healthy opportunities to be stewards of the financial blessings God has provided.
Applications Due 11/30/23. Learn more and apply now→
Partners in Health & Wholeness Mini-Grants
NC COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
We are excited to partner with congregations across the state to engage our faith communities and their larger communities in living happier, healthier, more abundant lives. We have proudly done this for years through our PHW Collaborative Pledge and PHW Mini-Grant program. Congregations identifying as United Methodist, African Methodist Episcopal, African Methodist Episcopal Zion, and Christian Methodist Episcopal are eligible for a mini-grant of up to $3,000 in any PHW Focus Area.
Applications Due 11/30/23. Learn more and apply now→
Child & Family Well-Being Grants
THE DUKE ENDOWMENT
Child and Family Well-Being works through accredited organizations and other nonprofit groups in North Carolina and South Carolina. Target population: children, youth and families who have either experienced child abuse or neglect or those at imminent risk of experiencing child maltreatment. The Duke Endowment has introduced a new pre-application process for the Child and Family Well-Being program area. It consists of several questions, which will help confirm your eligibility and guide you to one of three areas of work: Support for Implementation of Tested Programs, Commit to Innovation or Advocate for Improvement.
Applications Due 12/15/23. Learn more and apply now→
Health Care Grants
THE DUKE ENDOWMENT
In his Indenture of Trust, our founder focused Health Care funding to priority organizations in the Carolinas. Our funding priorities are Access to Care for Vulnerable Populations, Maternal and Infant Health, Mental Health, Oral Health, Population Health, and Workforce Development.
Applications Due 12/15/23. Learn more and apply now→
Peace with Justice
NC CONFERENCE BOARD OF CHURCH AND SOCIETY
Is your church ready to step beyond charity and into solidarity and justice ministries? Peace with Justice grants are available to UMC churches and affiliated nonprofits. Funded by Peace with Justice Sunday offerings, these grants are possible because Methodists share their gifts generously and share the vision of justice ministries. The NCC Board of Church and Society reviews and awards these grants quarterly.
Applications Due 1/8/24. Learn more and apply now→
New or Emerging Young People’s Ministry Awards
UNITED METHODIST RURAL ADVOCATES
The United Methodist Rural Advocates are now offering five $500 New or Emerging Young People’s Ministry Awards to United Methodist rural, or town and country churches within the United States. Interested persons are asked to submit an application that describes either a new or existing (started within the last 6 months), young people’s outreach program that seeks to benefit those in their communities and beyond.
Applications Due 1/10/24. Learn more and apply now→
Rolling Deadlines
The following opportunities accept applications throughout the year or on a rolling basis. Follow each link for more information.
Course of Study
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The NC Conference provides reimbursement of registration costs for the Course of Study programs, including Basic and Advanced COS.
Continuing Education
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Continuing Education funds are for clergy currently under appointment. Applicants must be a member of the North Carolina Annual Conference. Opportunities include Clinical Pastoral Education, Holy Land trips, and more.
Clergy Counseling
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The Clergy Care Committee provides financial assistance to clergy families of the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church who seek confidential counseling and therapy. Clergy Care funds are NOT to be used for career enhancement but are limited to personal growth and well-being. Clergy Care is financial assistance, $400 a year per family, for clergy.
Board of Mission Church Loans
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The Board of Mission, Inc. is primarily a low-interest lending organization. Loan applications are considered on a cash-available basis. As funds are repaid, new loans are originated. At a given point in time, funds may or may not be available to make new loans. Loans are also considered on a missional basis. Churches receiving missional priority are those in low-income neighborhoods and those needing more space to engage in cross-cultural and cross-racial programs. Some matching grant funding is available to churches needing repairs or replacement of vital building components. These grants are only approved after consultation with our contractor.
UMVIM Missional Exchange Grants
NC CONFERENCE UNITED METHODIST VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION
Missional Exchange Grants are intended to encourage UMVIM initiatives by various groups. All team leaders from the North Carolina Conference must receive approval from the Conference UMVIM Committee. Team leader training by the Conference UMVIM Committee is required to qualify for this grant. Additionally, teams seeking this grant must register for insurance through UMVIM, SEJ.
Learn more and apply now→
UMVIM Scholarships for Individuals
NC CONFERENCE UNITED METHODIST VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION
NCC UMVIM offers scholarships to individuals from several different funds created over the years. The Isa Grant Scholarship Fund is designed to assist persons for whom the expense of participating in a mission team is prohibitive. Priority is given to youth 21 years of age and younger. The Amanda Lee Scholarship Fund was created in memory of Amanda Lee, the daughter of Rev. Jim & Sharon Lee. Priority is given to young adults (ages 18-29). The Jason K. Branton Scholarship Fund was created in memory of Jason K. Branton, the grandson of Virginia Wrenn.
Learn more and apply now→
Golden Cross
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Golden Cross is a ministry that reaches out in love to the laity in our Annual Conference who are experiencing financial difficulty due to excessive medical expenses. Recipients must be active United Methodist members and be recommended for assistance by their pastor. For any questions or more information, email benefitsteam@nccumc.org.
One Who is Loved
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
United Methodist Foundation is a trustee of a special endowment called the “One Who Is Loved Fund.” This permanent endowment makes possible, love gifts to benefit children under the age of 18 who have special needs such as specialized medical equipment or supplies/medicine, transportation to hospitals or treatment centers, or other special needs. Pastors of the NC Conference are encouraged to recommend children for the fund.
Leadership Grant Assistance
NC CONFERENCE STRENGTHENING THE BLACK CHURCH MINISTRIES
Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century is a program designed to assist United Methodist churches with predominantly black congregations to become effective in mission and ministry. It does this by linking successful congregational resource centers with congregations that are in search of new ideas and revitalization.
Hispanic-Latinx Ministries
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The NC Annual Conference offers funding to enable Pilgrimage participation by Hispanic/Latinx youth.
Retired/Medical Leave Clergy Grants
THE SHEPHERD’S FUND
A retired pastor and their spouse can qualify for a one-time grant of up to $10,000 each or $20,000 total. They may reapply in subsequent years, especially if they have a chronic ongoing medical condition. Grants may also be given to pastors on medical leave and their spouses, or widows of pastors. Grants may also be given to retired pastors or pastors on medical leave that are legal custodians for their adult children that may have a medical issue from childhood. Grants may also be given to retired pastors or pastors on medical leave that are legal custodians for their grandchildren that may have a medical crisis or issue, regardless of age.
Farmer Fund Grant
WESPATH
Distressed clergy members or former clergy members of an annual conference; their spouses, former spouses, former surviving spouses; or surviving dependent children (including adult dependent children) are eligible to apply for a grant. The applicant is required to attach additional documentation pertaining to any unusual medical, legal, or other expenses which have created this one-time emergency situation. The maximum grant amount available from the Program is $3,000 per each individual approved application. Applications should be returned to benefitsteam@nccumc.org.
Local Church Marketing Services
UNITED METHODIST COMMUNICATIONS
United Methodist Communications offers marketing services and promotional grants to United Methodist congregations active in their communities and need support and guidance in reaching new people in new ways.
UMCOR Grants
UNITED METHODIST COMMITTEE ON RELIEF
UMCOR offers grants for Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation, Relief, Recovery, and Migration. UMCOR’s core values of equality and justice, respect with dignity, and good stewardship are reflected in UMCOR’s grant-making priorities.
Multiethnic Ministries Grants
GENERAL BOARD OF GLOBAL MINISTRIES
The General Board of Global Ministries accepts applications monthly for Asian American Language Ministry grants, Community Developers Program (CDP) Seed grants, Community Engagement grants – United Methodist Voluntary Service (UMVS), Native American Ministries grants, and Pacific Islander Ministry Plan grants.
Come to the Table
RURAL ADVANCEMENT FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL
United Methodist churches in rural North Carolina can apply to receive funding to purchase food from a local farmer of color. Churches must use these funds to purchase food from a designated farmer of color to distribute to food-insecure community members. Because of RAFI-USA’s long-standing relationships with farmers, farmers markets, and faith communities throughout North Carolina, Come to the Table is uniquely situated to connect these groups in mutually beneficial relationships.
Learn more and apply now→
Upcoming Grant, Scholarship & Loan Opportunities
The NC Conference recommends the following grants, scholarships, and loans available to United Methodist churches and ministry leaders in the North Carolina Conference. These programs are funded by the Conference or our partner organizations.
The funding opportunities listed here have application deadlines in the near future. Additional opportunities have deadlines coming up later in the year. View the complete list at Grants, Scholarships & Loans.
Upcoming Deadlines
CORR Action Fund
GENERAL COMMISSION ON RELIGION AND RACE
All United Methodist Church pastors and laity in the United States are invited to apply for funding to create cohorts and small groups focused on mental health awareness and wellness. The grant aims to support initiatives that are trauma-informed, culturally appropriate, and promote justice-oriented praxis.
Applications Due 7/15/23. Learn more and apply now→
Seminary Debt Repayment Endowment
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The Seminary Debt Repayment Endowment was established in 2015 in order to address the growing seminary debt load among pastors in the North Carolina Conference. This endowment seeks to bring about wholeness in regard to our pastors’ fiscal stability and stewardship, thus allowing them to be the most effective clergy persons they can be. All ordained clergy, Elders and Deacons, who are serving in full-time appointments as members of the North Carolina Conference, are eligible to apply.
Applications Due 7/15/23. Learn more and apply now→
Partners in Health & Wholeness Mini-Grants
NC COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
We are excited to partner with congregations across the state to engage our faith communities and their larger communities in living happier, healthier, more abundant lives. We have proudly done this for years through our PHW Collaborative Pledge and PHW Mini-Grant program. You can apply for anindividual mini-grant or community grant to support the valuable work that your health ministry is doing.
Applications Due 7/31/23. Collaborative Pledge Due 7/17/23. Learn more and apply now→
Partners in Health & Wholeness Denomination-Specific Grants
NC COUNCIL OF CHURCHES
Congregations affiliated with the UMC, AMEZ, AME, and CME denominations are eligible to apply for an expanded/supplemental mini-grant of up to $3,000 or a community grant (3 or more churches working together) of up to $10,000. If your congregation has already received a grant in 2023, you are eligible to apply for a supplemental grant of up to $2,000 (or the difference between $3,000 and your original grant reward).
Applications Due 7/31/23. Collaborative Pledge Due 7/17/23. Learn more and apply now→
GBCS Grants
THE GENERAL BOARD OF CHURCH AND SOCIETY
Church and Society awards grants to United Methodist congregations and groups related to The United Methodist Church through the Ethnic Local Church, Human Relations Day, and Peace with Justice programs.
Applications Due 7/24/23. Learn more and apply now→
Just Energy for All Seed Funding
UNITED WOMEN IN FAITH
The Office of Economic and Environmental Justice invites United Women in Faith groups to apply for grants to help local organizing campaigns advance just energy for all. Funding is available for work happening at the circle, unit, district, conference, and jurisdiction level. United Women in Faith groups are strongly encouraged to apply for a grant to support work that is happening collaboratively, in coalition/partnership with other organizations or groups, so long as such work involves substantial participation from local United Women in Faith members and is focused on supporting energy infrastructure projects.
Applications have a rolling deadline, with first-round applications reviewed on 7/24/23. Learn more and apply now→
Mission Seed Funds
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Mission Seed Funds are designed to facilitate and encourage United Methodist congregations of the NC Conference to engage in new ministry with people in their local communities who would not usually participate in the life of the church. Priority is given to new ministry initiatives that meet at least one of the five areas of emphasis of the NCCUMC: Healthy Congregations, Congregations for Children (C4C), Unity, Anti-racism, and Effective Leaders.
Applications Accepted 8/21/23-9/30/23. Learn more→
Mustard Seed Migration Grants
UNITED METHODIST COMMITTEE ON RELIEF
UMCOR will award grants of $2,000 USD to up to 100 United Methodist local churches to engage in new, one-time community-based service projects and ministries focused on migrants and refugees. We also encourage participating congregations to think about what they might do on a long-term basis, how they might get involved in advocacy to address systemic injustices present in immigration policy or consider how they might more completely live into a new understanding of church as the kingdom of God, actively engaged in caring for the most vulnerable in the community.
Applications Due 10/1/23, First Come, First Served. Learn more and apply now→
Refugee and Immigrant Communities
NC CONFERENCE REFUGEE & IMMIGRATION COMMITTEE
Churches can now complete one of three short Google forms to request monetary assistance to assist refugees and immigrants for: Refugees’ or immigrants’ filing and legal fees; Refugees’ or immigrants’ resettlement and transition expenses; Projects impacting the refugee/immigrant community. Applications are reviewed quarterly.
Applications Reviewed Quarterly. Learn more and apply now→
Rolling Deadlines
The following opportunities accept applications throughout the year or on a rolling basis. Follow each link for more information.
Course of Study
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The NC Conference provides reimbursement of registration costs for the Course of Study programs, including Basic and Advanced COS.
Continuing Education
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Continuing Education funds are for clergy currently under appointment. Applicants must be a member of the North Carolina Annual Conference. Opportunities include Clinical Pastoral Education, Holy Land trips, and more.
Clergy Counseling
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The Clergy Care Committee provides financial assistance to clergy families of the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church who seek confidential counseling and therapy. Clergy Care funds are NOT to be used for career enhancement but are limited to personal growth and well-being. Clergy Care is financial assistance, $400 a year per family, for clergy.
Board of Mission Church Loans
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The Board of Mission, Inc. is primarily a low-interest lending organization. Loan applications are considered on a cash-available basis. As funds are repaid, new loans are originated. At a given point in time, funds may or may not be available to make new loans. Loans are also considered on a missional basis. Churches receiving missional priority are those in low-income neighborhoods and those needing more space to engage in cross-cultural and cross-racial programs. Some matching grant funding is available to churches needing repairs or replacement of vital building components. These grants are only approved after consultation with our contractor.
UMVIM Missional Exchange Grants
NC CONFERENCE UNITED METHODIST VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION
Missional Exchange Grants are intended to encourage UMVIM initiatives by various groups. All team leaders from the North Carolina Conference must receive approval from the Conference UMVIM Committee. Team leader training by the Conference UMVIM Committee is required to qualify for this grant. Additionally, teams seeking this grant must register for insurance through UMVIM, SEJ.
Learn more and apply now→
UMVIM Scholarships for Individuals
NC CONFERENCE UNITED METHODIST VOLUNTEERS IN MISSION
NCC UMVIM offers scholarships to individuals from several different funds created over the years. The Isa Grant Scholarship Fund is designed to assist persons for whom the expense of participating in a mission team is prohibitive. Priority is given to youth 21 years of age and younger. The Amanda Lee Scholarship Fund was created in memory of Amanda Lee, the daughter of Rev. Jim & Sharon Lee. Priority is given to young adults (ages 18-29). The Jason K. Branton Scholarship Fund was created in memory of Jason K. Branton, the grandson of Virginia Wrenn.
Learn more and apply now→
Golden Cross
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
Golden Cross is a ministry that reaches out in love to the laity in our Annual Conference who are experiencing financial difficulty due to excessive medical expenses. Recipients must be active United Methodist members and be recommended for assistance by their pastor. For any questions or more information, email benefitsteam@nccumc.org.
One Who is Loved
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
United Methodist Foundation is a trustee of a special endowment called the “One Who Is Loved Fund.” This permanent endowment makes possible, love gifts to benefit children under the age of 18 who have special needs such as specialized medical equipment or supplies/medicine, transportation to hospitals or treatment centers, or other special needs. Pastors of the NC Conference are encouraged to recommend children for the fund.
Leadership Grant Assistance
NC CONFERENCE STRENGTHENING THE BLACK CHURCH MINISTRIES
Strengthening the Black Church for the 21st Century is a program designed to assist United Methodist churches with predominantly black congregations to become effective in mission and ministry. It does this by linking successful congregational resource centers with congregations that are in search of new ideas and revitalization.
Hispanic-Latinx Ministries
NC CONFERENCE OF THE UMC
The NC Annual Conference offers funding to enable Pilgrimage participation by Hispanic/Latinx youth.
Retired/Medical Leave Clergy Grants
THE SHEPHERD’S FUND
A retired pastor and their spouse can qualify for a one-time grant of up to $10,000 each or $20,000 total. They may reapply in subsequent years, especially if they have a chronic ongoing medical condition. Grants may also be given to pastors on medical leave and their spouses, or widows of pastors. Grants may also be given to retired pastors or pastors on medical leave that are legal custodians for their adult children that may have a medical issue from childhood. Grants may also be given to retired pastors or pastors on medical leave that are legal custodians for their grandchildren that may have a medical crisis or issue, regardless of age.
Farmer Fund Grant
WESPATH
Distressed clergy members or former clergy members of an annual conference; their spouses, former spouses, former surviving spouses; or surviving dependent children (including adult dependent children) are eligible to apply for a grant. The applicant is required to attach additional documentation pertaining to any unusual medical, legal, or other expenses which have created this one-time emergency situation. The maximum grant amount available from the Program is $3,000 per each individual approved application. Applications should be returned to benefitsteam@nccumc.org.
Local Church Marketing Services
UNITED METHODIST COMMUNICATIONS
United Methodist Communications offers marketing services and promotional grants to United Methodist congregations active in their communities and need support and guidance in reaching new people in new ways.
UMCOR Grants
UNITED METHODIST COMMITTEE ON RELIEF
UMCOR offers grants for Disaster Preparedness and Mitigation, Relief, Recovery, and Migration. UMCOR’s core values of equality and justice, respect with dignity, and good stewardship are reflected in UMCOR’s grant-making priorities.
Community Engagement Grants
GENERAL BOARD OF GLOBAL MINISTRIES
The General Board of Global Ministries will offer Community Engagement Grants to congregations and annual conferences through the United Methodist Voluntary Service (UMVS) program. The United Methodist Voluntary Service (UMVS) serves as a resource to volunteer-based groups and programs that challenge unjust political, social, and economic systems which threaten the livelihoods of people of low socioeconomic status, as well as racial/ethnic communities. Community Engagement Grants can be used for short-term (less than 1 year) community-based outreach programs and events. The UMVS provides financial resources of up to $15,000 per congregation, annual conference, or mission partner. Applicants must provide a financial contribution of at least 10% of the requested amount.
Come to the Table
RURAL ADVANCEMENT FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL
United Methodist churches in rural North Carolina can apply to receive funding to purchase food from a local farmer of color. Churches must use these funds to purchase food from a designated farmer of color to distribute to food-insecure community members. Because of RAFI-USA’s long-standing relationships with farmers, farmers markets, and faith communities throughout North Carolina, Come to the Table is uniquely situated to connect these groups in mutually beneficial relationships.
Learn more and apply now→
A Pilgrimage of Pain and Hope
Duke Memorial UMC shares their journey on a Pilgrimage through Durham, NC, focused on the history of racism in the area. The church received a Peace with Justice grant to support their justice ministry.
Peace with Justice Sunday is June 4. View the Special Sunday resources.
North Carolina and Western NC Conferences Receive a Five-Year Duke Endowment Grant Exceeding $10 Million
Garner and Huntersville, NC – The North Carolina and Western North Carolina Conferences of The United Methodist Church (UMC) are thrilled to announce that they have each received a generous grant from The Duke Endowment to support the creation of new United Methodist faith communities and the strengthening of existing congregations within the UMC conferences. Over five years, these grants for $5.25 million each will provide vital resources to help the conferences address the challenges posed by recent disaffiliations and continue to spread the message of Jesus’ love and hope throughout the state of North Carolina.
The Duke Endowment grants will fund a range of initiatives, including resources for training and equipping pastors and lay leaders, developing innovative ministry programs, and embracing forward thinking as the conferences refocus and regear for this season of ministry. The grant will also provide the conferences a strategic opportunity to better understand the needs and opportunities for new faith communities and congregational revitalization in this post-disaffiliation environment.
“The Duke Endowment made this $10.5 million investment in the North Carolina and Western North Carolina Conferences to affirm our commitment to The United Methodist Church and its very bright future,” said Rev. Robb Webb, director of Rural Church for The Duke Endowment and ordained deacon in the Western North Carolina Conference. “We believe in the strength of the connection and have been privileged to witness the fruitful ministries it has produced throughout our state – ministries that have nurtured and sustained congregations and communities for generations. We look forward to continued work with the clergy and congregations of the North Carolina and Western North Carolina Conferences of The United Methodist Church and know that our ministry together will yield much fruit.”
“We are deeply grateful to The Duke Endowment for their support and investment in the mission of the North Carolina Conference,” said Bishop Connie Mitchell Shelton. “This grant will allow us to join God’s mission through a United Methodist presence across North Carolina. We are excited to see how God will use these resources to strengthen our communities and bear witness to God’s kingdom.”
The North Carolina and Western North Carolina Conferences are committed to creating and strengthening welcoming and vibrant churches where people of all backgrounds can encounter the love of God and grow as disciples of Jesus. With the support of The Duke Endowment, the conferences will be better equipped to fulfill this mission and make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
Bishop Ken Carter affirmed, “In a season of disruption and disaffiliation, there are at the same time strong signs of connection. We are profoundly grateful to The Duke Endowment for this significant grant to strengthen our capacity to make disciples and transform communities. In the spirit of the circuit riders, we will not abandon any of our communities, and with the help of God, we are excited about all that is ahead!”
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For more information about the North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church and its ministry initiatives, visit nccumc.org.
For more information about the Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church and its ministry initiatives, visit wnccumc.org.
Media Contacts
Derek Leek
Director of Communications
North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church
Phone: (919) 275-2436
Email: dcleek@nccumc.org
Aimee Yeager
Director of Communications
Western North Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church
Phone: (704) 992-7974
Email: ayeager@wnccumc.org