Best Grants for Churches in Idaho

About Us

We endeavor to help individuals reach their full potential, families to thrive and communities to flourish through grants to a range of charitable organizations. To these ends, our grantmaking is framed by two potentially contrasting convictions: that tradition is an important resource and that fundamental rethinking often is necessary to respond effectively to new challenges and circumstances. These convictions arise from the encouragement J.K. Lilly, Sr. gave to his sons to be conservatively progressive. That philosophy was evident in their leadership of their company and the establishment and administration of the Endowment.

LE National Initiative to Strengthen Christian Campus Ministries at Colleges and Universities

Lilly Endowment is pleased to announce its National Initiative to Strengthen Christian Campus Ministries at Colleges and Universities (Campus Ministry Initiative). The aim of the initiative is to strengthen throughout the United States the capacities of Christian campus ministries at or near colleges and universities to nurture the religious lives of college students both today and into the future.

In this competitive initiative, the Endowment intends to award grants of up to $7.5 million each to approximately 20 national and regional charitable organizations that support Christian campus ministries at or near multiple college and university campuses (e.g., national and/or regional denominational agencies, campus ministry parachurch organizations, collegiate ministry associations, church networks, independent religious agencies) to support programs that advance the aim stated above and the following five objectives:

Assisting local campus ministry leaders in listening to and understanding more deeply the emerging spiritual interests and questions of students and in assessing how effectively their existing ministry strategies and programs are reaching and nurturing the religious lives of young people.

Creating new or enhancing existing programs of local campus ministries to help students explore spiritual questions, build community with other students, discover and test how they can draw more fully on their faith in making decisions about their futures and engage in Christian practices and rituals to deepen their faith.

Fostering more opportunities at local campus ministries for students to serve as Christian leaders and explore calls to Christian ministry.

Engaging in fundraising and related activities to strengthen the financial and organizational capacities of local campus ministries (including creating or increasing pools of financial resources to support local campus ministries).

Strengthening the charitable organization’s own capacities and programs to provide resources and support to local campus ministries and those who lead these student ministries.

Funding Opportunities

Interested charitable organizations may apply for Campus Ministry Initiative grants through a two-stage, competitive process.

Stage 1 Concept Papers: In the first stage, interested charitable organizations that support Christian campus ministries at or near universities and colleges may submit concept papers that explain their interest in the initiative and provide initial descriptions of their potential programs for which they would like to request an implementation grant. Concept papers must be submitted through the Campus Ministry Initiative Concept Paper Submission Form, which may be found on the initiative’s webpage.

Concept papers are due by January 25, 2027.

The Endowment will review the concept papers and intends to award planning grants of up to $50,000 each to approximately 20 organizations that submit concepts that show the most promise to advance the Campus Ministry Initiative’s aim and objectives. The planning grants are intended to assist organizations in developing their concepts and preparing proposals for implementation grants. The Endowment anticipates notifying organizations of planning grant awards in March 2027.

Stage 2 Implementation Grant Proposals: In the second stage, selected organizations that receive planning grants may submit proposals for grants up to $7.5 million each that may be used for up to a five-year period to implement their plans. Selected organizations may request to use up to $5 million in these funds to support the programmatic and related expenses of their proposed programs. Organizations may request up to an additional $2.5 million, which would be subject to $1(Endowment)-for-$1(grantee) matching conditions and be paid on a matching basis, to create or increase a pool of funds to support local campus ministries.

Implementation grant proposals are due by June 7, 2027. The Endowment anticipates announcing implementation grant awards in October 2027. 

Idaho Christian congregations and ministries seeking to deepen Christian practices and spiritual formation can access funding through Lilly Endowment’s Exploring Christian Practices Initiative. This program offers up to US $2,500,000 to expand settings where people explore Christian practices, build community, nourish religious life, and grow in faith, with Idaho-based projects eligible within its U.S. scope.

Students pursuing higher education with Christian ministry interests or strong community and humanitarian service may be eligible for the Kenneth P. Rutter Scholarship, including churches supporting such students in Idaho. Focused on Christian education and service, the Pittsburgh Foundation offers about US $2,500 for Westmoreland County, PA residents meeting academic and financial-need criteria.

Mission

The Fish Family Foundation of Maine is a faith based charitable organization located in Bangor, Maine. Founded in 2007, our mission is to provide resources for many initiatives including, but not limited to, missions, education scholarships, ministries, medical research, and employment creation. The Fish Family Foundation of Maine is primarily funded by the family. However, contributions from like minded individuals and organizations is appreciated. The Fish Family Foundation of Maine has a balanced strategy of making funds available for immediate needs, while also investing to build a perpetual earning endowment ensuring the Foundation's successful future.

Missions:

We support needs of missionary organizations including sponsorships for young people who wish to attend youth group sponsored mission trips. We ordinarily make one time contributions but on occasion have made up to a three year commitment. 

Education/Scholarships:

The Foundation makes scholarships available to Colleges, Universities, and other Schools for student enrollment and expenses. We also consider new construction, existing renovation, equipment, and support material contributions.

Independent Churches and Ministries:

We accept a wide variety of requests, including, but not limited to: materials, equipment, new construction, renovations, programs, and services. 

Medical Research:

We support medical research opportunities close to our hearts and organizations that our family and friends have experienced. 

Job Creation:

We Support organizations that fund entrepreneurs in impoverished areas to start small businesses providing services and employment to the community.

Requests are considered by the trustees the first week of each month. Foundation payments are made by paper check in US dollars and are reported to the appropriate tax agencies. While we certainly wish that we could contribute to all the applications that meet our funding criteria, there are times when when available funding is limited and we are not able to contribute to some very worthy causes. If we are not in a position to help in the timeline requested, we will keep the information on file for possible consideration in the future. 

The Jandy Ammons Foundation provides Idaho Christian organizations and churches with capital funding for innovative, shovel-ready projects such as park or community spaces, educational surroundings, artistic installations, wildlife or conservation work, and church mission endeavors. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) public charities seeking support for specific standalone projects, not ongoing programs or operations.

Individuals pursuing Christian ministry or other defined religious work through U.S. educational institutions can receive more than US $500 for theological or ministry education. Grants from The Columbus Foundation help support candidates, with preference for members of Gender Road Christian Church and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), including those who may be based in Idaho.

Christian 501(c)(3) organizations in Idaho launching new programs addressing poverty, violence, or inequality can receive US $15,000 over two years for both program costs and leadership development. With a mission to nurture emerging Christian leaders, We Raise Foundation provides funding plus coaching and conference participation for leaders ages 20–35 serving under-resourced communities.

Homeschooled high school seniors pursuing two- or four-year degrees, residing in a Shelby County, Ohio school district, can receive scholarship support for higher education; awards US $1,000 for tuition or related costs. With a mission to inspire donor generosity, the Community Foundation of Shelby County prioritizes Christian college enrollment, church participation, work history, academics, recommendations, and financial need.

Christian adults or graduating seniors pursuing adult education, trade school, or an associate’s degree can receive US $2,000 through the Bruce and Lynn Lindsey Skills Scholarship, with a focus on vocational and trade education. The Community Foundation of Shelby County prioritizes applicants preparing for HVAC, plumbing, or electrical careers, which may include Idaho Christian school communities.

Local United Methodist churches can receive support for stewardship, technology, or leadership development projects through the CFA Ministry Grants, including congregations in Idaho that are part of the Kentucky Conference. Grants from the Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church offer up to US $500 per application, with up to two applications allowed per church each year.

Idaho Christian students pursuing post-secondary education can access funding through the Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond’s R.C. and Betsy Williamson Scholarship, which offers up to US $4,500. Qualifying graduates of public or private high schools in Central Virginia who demonstrate Christian values, financial need, community commitment, and academic achievement may be eligible to apply.

Idaho Christian 501(c)(3) ministries serving first responders, military, police, firefighters, disaster relief, prisons, healthcare facilities, children, and at-risk populations can access funding through 1687 Foundation’s Book Ministry for Christian book resources. Churches and faith-based nonprofits that fit these categories may receive books for distribution in their programs across the U.S.

Christian nonprofits and churches in Idaho can seek funding for religious, charitable, and educational programs that promote the Christian faith. The Bolick Foundation supports U.S.-registered 501(c)(3) organizations with program-related activities and limited capital improvements, so Idaho-based Christian ministries and church-affiliated projects may be eligible to apply.

Churches and Christian 501(c)(3) organizations in Idaho working in education access, community development, international development, or Latter-day Saints initiatives can seek Strategic Impact Grants to support mission-aligned programs. Bertin Family Foundation prioritizes measurable outcomes, strong governance, and ethical leadership, with annual applications accepted via its online portal in Q3.

501(c)(3) charitable, benevolent, and religious organizations serving Christians in Idaho can apply for the Robert J. Keown Trust’s US $10,000 - US $20,000 grants to aid needy Christians. Faith-based nonprofits, especially those assisting elderly, infirm, or economically vulnerable Christians, may be competitive applicants alongside similar organizations across the U.S.

Christian high school seniors pursuing undergraduate study can receive US $500 for tuition, room and board, or books through this scholarship, based on financial need and a minimum 3.0 GPA. While managed by Beatrice Educational Foundation in Nebraska, Idaho churchgoing students at Beatrice High School may benefit if they meet these criteria.

Faculty researchers at Christian colleges or universities in Idaho can seek US $5,000 - US $15,000 from American Bible Society to study and test ways to increase Bible engagement among young adults. Projects should focus on next-generation adults, include evaluation using ABS’s Scripture Engagement Scale, and demonstrate scalability for church or ministry settings.

Idaho Christian students seeking support for 2- or 4-year post-secondary education can access funding through the Ted & Marian Stout Scholarship, which emphasizes strong scholastic standing and clear educational and life goals. Awarded through Decatur County Community Foundation, this scholarship is for members of the First Baptist Church of Greensburg who demonstrate Christian values.

Christian ministries and organizations carrying out gospel-centered humanitarian work in Idaho and beyond can seek funding to spread the message of Jesus Christ and demonstrate His love through relief and service projects. Bellevue Heights Church Foundation supports both domestic and international efforts, and Idaho churches engaged in these activities may be eligible to apply.

Christian 501(c)(3) organizations in North America producing Adventist-related journalism and media projects can receive US $5,000 - US $15,000 to support reporting, storytelling, training, and related costs. Versacare offers Journalism for Adventist Solutions grants that Idaho-based Adventist publications, universities, academies, and independent news organizations may be eligible to pursue for communication initiatives.

Idaho Christian students pursuing higher education may be eligible if they have permanent residence in Carroll County, Ohio and are active participant members of The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) or another Carroll County church. The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund from Stark Community Foundation offers more than US $500 for accredited college, university, or technical programs.

Aurora-area high school graduates pursuing college studies in law, teaching, Christian ministry, or agriculture can receive scholarship support, typically around US $1,000, from the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley. Students entering Christian ministry programs, including those from Idaho now residing in the Aurora area, may be eligible if they meet the fund’s criteria.

The Clark and Ruby Baker Foundation Grant aims to support charitable organizations that align with the philanthropic mission of the Baker family, focusing on Methodist-affiliated educational institutions, aid for disadvantaged children, and assistance for the sick in Georgia. The Foundation considers funding for construction projects of educational and medical facilities, ensuring that grants are awarded to meet specific community needs and promote long-term benefits.

Witness To Win Inc

Witness to Win, Inc. is a product of the Mathena family’s deep commitment to honoring God and God’s mission as stated in Matthew 28:19-20. These legacy values of giving and sharing were not only taught but were caught by the Mathena children. Many times, foundations are created to honor people and their legacy; however, Gary, Teresa, David, Melissa and John’s desire is to glorify the person of Jesus Christ and make Him known to all peoples. Therefore, the Mathena children unanimously decided to create the Witness to Win Foundation in 2017.

Over the past 10 years, the Mathena Family has given over $80M through their tithes and offerings to their local churches and to charitable organizations whose sole purpose is to share the love and message of Jesus Christ. 

Witness to Win Grant Program

To encourage and support charitable 501(c)(3) organizations who have as among their primary purpose to share and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to the nations. These organizations will directly fulfill this purpose through Christian religious education and qualified Christian ministries. These charitable organizations must all be headquartered in the United States and must adhere to Christian, moral, and conservative standards of belief and conduct as specified in our Statements of Belief.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Charles W. and Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Charles W. & Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund is to support charitable causes, with a particular emphasis on Christian-based organizations and initiatives that serve individuals, families, and communities in need.

In addition, the Fund is committed to investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals by awarding scholarships to students pursuing careers in vocational and technical fields, including:

• Diesel Mechanics
• Automotive Mechanics
• Welding
• Auto Body Repair
• Collision Repair

Through charitable giving and educational support, the Fund seeks to create opportunities, encourage self-sufficiency, and make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals while honoring the values of faith, hard work, service, and community,

Charles W. Dickinson is the founder of D&D Collision Services, C M D Services Inc & Pottstown Area Rapid Transit.

The Owen Family Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations primarily in East Texas and the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, focusing on health, education, human services, and religious initiatives. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and past funding is required for Twin Cities applicants. The foundation is committed to promoting philanthropy and ensuring access to funding for eligible charities, while maintaining a non-discriminatory policy.

About the Bertin Family Foundation

Founders: Kim and Jennifer BertinAfter a successful career innovating orthopedic surgical techniques, devices, and implants, Kim and his wife Jennifer feel a deep sense of stewardship to dedicate their resources to helping others. They engage all three generations of the Bertin family in hands-on service and grantmaking decisions, fostering a shared commitment to giving back. Through the foundation’s work, the Bertin family seeks to strengthen communities, support meaningful causes, and inspire future generations to lead with compassion and purpose. 

NOW Grants

A limited number of grants are available for one time projects or programs that emerge outside of the standard review period. These grants are for $5000 or less.