The Southwestern Minnesota Synod Endowment Fund Committee will once again award grants to support the mission and ministries of congregations in their local communities in 2025-2026. The Endowment Fund Committee is looking for projects proposals in the following areas:
- Community Outreach
- Youth Activities
- Special Mission Projects
- Addressing Community Food Insecurity
These grants are intended for new initiatives or for significant expansion of existing programs to serve new people. The Endowment Fund is particularly interested in proposals that involve partnerships with other faith communities and/or organizations in the community. We hope applicants will think creatively and strategically about other groups in their community who can be invited to support their proposal through funds, hands-on collaboration, and/or implementation. We are all better together. In evaluating applications, the Endowment Committee also will consider sustainability following the initial grant period where applicable.
The Endowment Committee will decline to fund building improvements, maintenance, or renovation; congregational mission trips or retreats; VBS; or curriculum. The Endowment Fund does not provide funding to pass through to other non-profit organizations. In addition, while welcoming applications which involve minimal short-term project administration, ongoing staff positions and internships will not be considered.
Congregations of the SWMN Synod, as well as Conferences and Campus Ministries, are invited to apply. (Application Deadline: July 1, 2025)
This is the seventh year for Congregational Mission Grants. In the last six years, a total of $112,222 has been awarded throughout the SWMN Synod. This year, there is $43,000 available. Funded projects must be completed, with a final report received by November 30, 2026.
