Supporting New and Innovative Ministries Across ABCUSA
The Mission Initiative Fund (MIF) fuels creativity and innovation across the American Baptist family—providing grants that bring bold new ministries and denomination-wide mission projects to life. Through this fund, we invest in ideas that strengthen and expand the reach of our shared mission, helping ministries grow, adapt, and make a lasting impact.
The Mission Initiative Fund provides seed funding for up to three years to help launch new or emerging ministries that explore fresh and creative ways of doing ministry. It supports denomination-wide initiatives authorized by the Board of General Ministries that have a broad impact across the organization. The fund also assists special task forces or commissions created by the Board of General Ministries to carry out specific assignments, and offers limited emergency assistance to ministries facing unexpected crises or challenges beyond their control.
Established through the Common Budget Covenant of the American Baptist Churches USA, the fund supports creative initiatives that go beyond regular operating budgets. Each year, 1% of all United Mission gifts is dedicated to this fund, with grants awarded by the ABCUSA Mission Resource Development (MRD) Department to help ministries grow and make a greater impact.
Grant Deadlines
Applications are reviewed twice a year: - April 1, 2026 - September 1, 2026 American Baptist Churches USA must receive requests by these dates.
Who Can Apply
- Any organization that participates in the United Mission giving may apply.
- Non-participants may apply only if sponsored by a participating organization.
- An advocate must be available (in person, online, or by phone) to answer questions during the ABCUSA’s review of the proposal.
What Types of Projects Are Supported
The Mission Initiative Fund provides support for projects that strengthen and expand the mission of the American Baptist family, including: - New or Emerging Ministries: Provides seed funding for up to 3 years to develop innovative or pilot projects. Renewals are not expected. - Denomination-Wide Initiatives: Supports programs or emphases authorized by the Board of General Ministries that have a broad, organization-wide impact. - Special Task Forces or Commissions: Assists short-term groups created by the Board of General Ministries to carry out specific assignments. - Emergency Assistance: Offers limited support in response to unforeseen crises or circumstances beyond an organization’s control. The Fund is not intended to address regular budget shortfalls, except in cases of genuine emergency.
Application Requirements
To be considered for the Mission Initiative Fund, each proposal must: - Complete the Mission Initiative Fund Grant Application in full (including all required sections and signatures). - State the total amount requested and the project duration (start and end dates). - Provide a detailed project budget, including all anticipated revenue sources and funding partners. - Explain how the project aligns with the mission and goals of the American Baptist Churches USA. - Describe specific objectives and measurable outcomes, along with a clear plan for evaluation and reporting. - Identify an advocate who can present and speak on behalf of the proposal (in person or virtually) when ABCUSA reviews the request. Grant Size: The Mission Initiative Fund typically awards grants ranging from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the scope of the project, available funds, and alignment with ABCUSA mission priorities. Larger requests (up to $50,000) may be considered for denomination-wide initiatives or projects assigned by the Board of General Ministries.
Reporting & Accountability
Recipients of Mission Initiative Fund grants are expected to use funds responsibly and provide timely updates throughout the grant period. - Use of Funds: All grant funds must be used within the approved grant period. Any unused portion must be returned to the ABCUSA. - Progress Reports: Annual progress reports, including financial updates, must be submitted to the ABCUSA. - Final Report: A final narrative and financial report are required within 30 days after project completion. Example: If a grant totals $30,000 over three years ($10,000 per year), each year’s allocation must be used by the end of that year.
Contact Information: For questions, contact Juliana Herrera at juliana.herrera@abc-usa.org .