Church construction grants

FEMA's BRIC program funds hazard mitigation projects that protect buildings and communities from floods, storms, earthquakes, and other natural hazards. Churches cannot apply directly: eligible applicants are states and tribes, with local governments as subapplicants. A church benefits by having its city or county include the property in its application, so the path in is your local emergency management or hazard mitigation office. The program was reinstated by federal court order in March 2026 after a 2025 termination attempt, and a combined FY2024-25 round worth $1 billion is currently open. For security-focused funding churches can apply for directly, see FEMA's Nonprofit Security Grant Program through your state administering agency.

The USDA Community Facilities program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. Eligible facilities include churches and houses of worship that provide essential services to the community. Grant amounts are based on the median household income of the area served, with higher grants available in lower-income rural communities.

Florida's Special Category grant program funds acquisition and development projects for properties included in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Nonprofit religious organizations that own historic properties are eligible to apply for rehabilitation and restoration work. Matching funds (50%) are required, and priority is given to projects that ensure public access and benefit to Florida residents.

AGFinancial's Church Strengthening Grants provide financial assistance to Assemblies of God churches facing critical facility needs or ministry expansion opportunities. Grants are available for construction and renovation projects, as well as ministry equipment and technology upgrades that enable churches to better serve their communities. Priority consideration is given to churches in lower-income communities and those demonstrating strong growth.

The Lutheran Church Extension Fund (LCEF) provides Mission Investment Fund grants to support Missouri Synod Lutheran congregations in new church starts, facility expansion, and major renovation projects. The grant program is specifically designed to leverage LCEF financing and help congregations close funding gaps on building projects. Churches must be in good standing with their district and demonstrate ministry need.

The PC(USA) 1001 New Worshiping Communities movement funds new worshiping communities through a graduated grant ladder: Seed grants of $10,000 in year one, Investment grants of $30,000 after 12 months, and Growth grants of $30,000 about 18 months later, plus health insurance and sabbatical support for leaders. Applications are reviewed roughly four times per year (2026 deadlines: January 27, April 28, June 30, September 1) and every application must be reviewed and signed by the community's local presbytery, which receives the funds.

The National Fund for Sacred Places, administered by Partners for Sacred Places and funded by the Lilly Endowment, provides capacity-building support and capital grants to congregations with historic buildings. Accepted congregations participate in a comprehensive planning process before being eligible for capital grants to address deferred maintenance and preservation needs. The program is open to congregations of any faith tradition across the United States.

FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding to state, tribal, and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures after a presidential disaster declaration. Houses of worship and nonprofit organizations are eligible as sub-applicants through their state or local government sponsor. Eligible projects include safe room construction, flood mitigation, seismic retrofits, and wildfire mitigation.