American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA) invites applications for the Mission Initiative Fund, which provides grants to help launch new ministries and denomination-wide mission projects that go beyond normal operating budgets.
The Mission Initiative Fund is designed to spark innovation, encourage collaboration, and expand mission impact across the denomination. Each year, this fund helps churches, regions, and ministries bring creative ideas to life—supporting projects that nurture disciples, strengthen communities, and share God’s love in new ways.
Under the United Stewardship Plan, one percent of gross United Mission dollars is set aside for this special fund. “Through the Mission Initiative Fund, we are able to faithfully support creativity—new ministries that bring healing, hope, and transformation,” said Rev. Dr. Gina C. Jacobs-Strain, General Secretary of American Baptist Churches USA. “These grants help our churches and partners live out the love of Christ in fresh and renewing ways, extending the reach of our shared mission.”
“The Mission Initiative Fund represents our collective commitment to faithful stewardship and innovation in ministry,” said Alan Musoke, Associate General Secretary for Finance, CFO/Treasurer of American Baptist Churches USA. “Through the generosity of United Mission giving, we are able to invest in new initiatives that embody our shared call to mission, ministry, and the healing work of Christ in our communities.”
Application Deadlines
- April 1, 2026 – notified by July 15, 2026
- September 1, 2026 – notified by December 1, 2026
Proposals must be received by the deadline dates listed above. Applications should be submitted to Juliana Herrera using our updated form, here. Questions may be submitted to Juliana.Herrera@abc-usa.org.
Who Can Apply
Proposals may be submitted by any participant in United Mission giving. Organizations not currently participating may apply if sponsored by a participating organization.
Projects must be new initiatives and should align with the mission and goals of American Baptist Churches USA. Grants are intended for purposes such as:
- Launching new or innovative ministries
- Supporting denomination-wide mission projects or emphases
- Providing seed money for creative pilot programs
- Responding to emergency or unforeseen needs within ministry
Reporting and Accountability
Each funded project is expected to include clear goals, a defined budget, and a plan for evaluation. Annual progress reports and final outcomes help ensure the continued stewardship and effectiveness of these mission-driven efforts.
For full guidelines, applicants are encouraged to review the Mission Initiative Fund Grant Policies here: https://www.abc-usa.org/abcusa-resources/mission-initiative-fund/