Best Grants for Churches in Indiana

Members of Christ United Methodist Church in Wabash, Indiana pursuing degrees at accredited Indiana colleges can receive tuition-only scholarships through the Dorothy Squires Memorial Scholarship Fund. With a mission to enrich Wabash County, Community Foundation of Wabash County provides church members with post-secondary education support that may benefit congregations seeking to assist their students.

Indiana Christian congregations seeking matching funds for mission-focused resources and projects can apply for up to US $25,000 in support. Indianapolis Center for Congregations provides Indiana churches with grants to strengthen their ministries, as long as projects align with congregational priorities and include broad leadership support and matching funds.

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.

Christian 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Indiana launching new programs addressing poverty, violence, and inequality can receive US $15,000 over two years for both program costs and leadership development. With a mission to support emerging Christian leaders, We Raise Foundation provides funding for innovative, community-rooted work serving under-resourced communities in the U.S.

Local churches developing stewardship, technology, or leadership ministries can apply for grants up to Up to US $500, including congregations in Indiana that are part of the Kentucky Conference. Grants from the Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church support AV upgrades, stewardship initiatives, and leadership development projects, with up to two applications per church each year.

Indiana Christian ministries and 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving first responders, military, police, firefighters, disaster relief, prisons, healthcare, children, and at-risk populations can access funding through 1687 Foundation’s Book Ministry for Christian book resources. Churches and faith-based organizations that fit these service categories may be eligible for support distributing Christian literature.

Indiana Christian and religious 501(c)(3) organizations can seek funding for program-related activities and limited capital improvements that promote the Christian faith. The Bolick Foundation supports U.S.-registered nonprofits that indirectly advance its mission of spreading the Christian gospel, including churches and ministries engaged in charitable, religious, or educational work.

Churches and Christian 501(c)(3) organizations in Indiana working in education access, community development, international development, or Latter-day Saint initiatives may be eligible for Strategic Impact Grants supporting mission-aligned programs. Bertin Family Foundation prioritizes measurable outcomes, strong governance, ethical leadership, and prefers applicants with Gold or Platinum Candid status, with applications submitted annually through its online portal.

501(c)(3) charitable, benevolent, and religious organizations in Indiana can apply for the Robert J. Keown Trust’s US $10,000 - US $20,000 grants to aid needy Christians. Faith-based nonprofits serving elderly Christian women, infirm Christians, or those without visible means of support may be especially competitive; funding is awarded nationally with a preference for Los Angeles County, California.

Christian Beatrice High School seniors seeking undergraduate study support can receive US $500 for tuition, room and board, or books through this scholarship, based on financial need and a 3.0 GPA. Beatrice Educational Foundation provides this faith-based academic scholarship, which may interest Indiana churches supporting college-bound youth in their congregations.

University and college faculty conducting Christian research with next-generation adults in Indiana can seek US $5,000 - US $15,000 in support for Scripture engagement studies. Focused on increasing Bible engagement and spiritual vitality, American Bible Society invites projects using its Scripture Engagement Scale that can be evaluated, scaled, and replicated in diverse Christian contexts.

Indiana church members seeking Christian-based college or vocational scholarships can access funding through the Ted & Marian Stout Scholarship, supporting 2- or 4-year post-secondary education. Managed by Decatur County Community Foundation, this award is for First Baptist Church of Greensburg members who demonstrate Christian values, good scholastic standing, and clear educational and life goals.

Christian ministries and organizations engaged in spreading the gospel and humanitarian aid, including churches in Indiana, can apply for Bellevue Heights Church Foundation grants to support evangelism and relief efforts. This U.S.-based funder also offers tuition assistance for Master of Divinity students at participating seminaries nationwide.

Christian 501(c)(3) media and journalism organizations in Indiana and across North America can seek Versacare funding for Adventist-focused reporting, storytelling, and communication projects, with awards from US $5,000 - US $15,000. Grants can support investigations, major stories, training, technology, travel, and other initiatives that enhance ethical Adventist journalism and communication excellence.

Indiana Christian students pursuing higher education can access scholarship funding through Stark Community Foundation’s Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) Memorial Scholarship Fund. Eligible applicants must be active participant members of The Church of Christ (Christian Disciples) or another church in Carroll County, Ohio, and be accepted or enrolled at an accredited college, university, or technical school. Awards are more than US $500.

Aurora-area high school graduates pursuing college studies in law, teaching, Christian ministry, or agriculture can receive scholarship support to further their education. Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley provides Indiana Christianity-focused students and others with about US $1,000, typically as a one-year, non-renewable or multi-year renewable award depending on the specific scholarship fund.

Indiana Christian students pursuing post-secondary education can access funding for tuition and related costs through the R.C. and Betsy Williamson Scholarship, part of The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond. Churches and Christian organizations in Indiana may help eligible high school seniors, recent graduates, or adult learners with financial need and strong community commitment apply for up to US $4,500.

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Bruce and Lynn Lindsey Skills Scholarship

Adults or graduating seniors from Lehman Catholic High School, Sidney Christian Academy, and Sidney High School who are enrolling in an accredited adult educational program or trade school or pursuing an Associate’s Degree.

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

• Demonstrated interest and passion for a specific career path, demonstrated work experience, demonstrated community or school service, and recommendations. Preference given to applicants seeking a career in HVAC, plumbing or electrical.

Awards

• Two $2,000 scholarships

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Schmiesing Homeschool Scholarship

Selection based, in order of priority:

• Demonstrated church participation, employment history, recommendations, academic ability, and financial need.

Awards

• One $1,000 scholarship

William C. and Anna Rose Chamberlain Memorial

The fund was established in 1926 "for the propagation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ," to be used to educate those interested in the ministry; or as a missionary; or ordained professional minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); or for some definite religious work in connection with the church. Priority is given to members or former members of Gender Road Christian Church (formerly known as Southeast Christian Church).

Award Amount:

• Minimum $500

The Pittsburgh Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four–year universities, graduate schools, and career/technical schools.

Kenneth P. Rutter (Rotary) Scholarship Fund

The Kenneth P. Rutter Scholarship Fund was established at The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County to award a scholarship to a traditional or non-traditional applicant residing in Westmoreland County, who has achieved a high school diploma or equivalent including a GED or Home School certificate. Preference will be given to students who seek to enter the Christian Ministry, and/or who have exhibited a strong interest in Community Service and Humanitarian Service.

• Average Award: $2,500
• Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

The Exploring Christian Practices Initiative by Lilly Endowment aims to enhance access to settings that enable diverse individuals to engage in Christian practices. This initiative seeks to address spiritual interests, foster community connections, and support the growth of faith. By multiplying opportunities for exploration, it encourages meaningful participation in religious life and nurtures a deeper understanding of Christian traditions.

RoseLoe-Dix Endowed Scholarship Fund

Attending four-year university, two-year college or trade school in the upcoming semester, majoring in Business, Sciences, Computers, Christian Religion, Literature, Pre-med, Medical Field, or Engineering.

Awards

• (2) $12,000.00

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Mike and Lillian & Charles and Anne Boonstra Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Lillian Boonstra, who established the Mike and Lillian & Charles and Anne Boonstra Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Lillian was born and raised in Muskegon. She married Mike Boonstra, who, along with his brother Charles, owned the Boonstra Brothers Coal Co. on Western Ave for many years. Mike was one of the originators of radio station WMUS, a well-known country music radio station. Mike died a tragic death in 1981. He and Lillian were childless but always had candy for the neighborhood children. They were affectionately known as the candy lady and man. Not only was the Community Foundation a beneficiary of Lillian’s generosity, but also her church and others. The Boonstra Fund will be used to assist students attending any college, university or technical degree program, in addition to those pursuing careers in Christian vocation and service.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

In God We Trust, Mitchelle T. Savage Memorial Scholarship Fund

The In God We Trust, Mitchelle T. Savage Memorial Scholarship was established to provide educational opportunities beyond high school for Battle Creek area graduates or graduating seniors. Eligible recipients will be graduating seniors from Battle Creek area public and private schools who will be attending a college that is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities.

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Lionel and Muzzie Wood Family Scholarship Fund

The Muzzie Wood Scholarship was established in loving memory of Muzzie by her family after she passed away on March 16, 2001. In 2010, the name of the fund changed to the Lionel and Muzzie Wood Family Scholarship Fund and its support of Battle Creek area students expanded. Muzzie enjoyed spending time with her husband, Woody, their three daughters, stepson, and eight grandchildren. She loved the outdoors, flower and vegetable gardening, sewing, remodeling, fishing, and turkey and duck hunting. Her husband laughingly recalls a time she wore her sneakers in the river, knee-deep, and caught a salmon bare handed! Muzzie always had a smile on her face and gave more than she received. Woody, enjoys an active and blessed life rarely missing an opportunity for fun and fellowship at the Y Center of Battle Creek and spending time with family and friends, This scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors within Calhoun County who are members of a Missouri Synod Lutheran Church. If there are no eligible members, members of a Christian-based church may also be considered.

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.