Planning to Apply for a 2027 Synod Grant? Join the August 25 Webinar
Congregations and ministries considering a 2027 Grand Canyon Synod Grant are strongly encouraged to attend the Grant Application Webinar and Q&A on Tuesday, August 25, at 4:30 p.m. Arizona/Pacific time. Register for the August 25 Grant Webinar/Q&A here.
With approximately $175,000 available for grants this cycle and awards of up to $15,000 per project, the webinar is an important first step for ministries considering an application. Visit gcsynod.org/grants for more info.
The webinar comes just one day after the grant application submission window opens Monday, August 24. Applications are due no later than midnight Friday, September 25, 2026, and no late submissions will be accepted.
In fact, the 2027 application specifically asks applicants to identify up to three members of their congregation or organization who attended the webinar or watched the recording afterward.
About the 2027 Synod Grants
The Grand Canyon Synod Grant Program supports specific new or continuing projects serving one, two or three goals of the Grand Canyon Synod Strategic Plan. Eligible applicants include organized congregations, Synodically Authorized Worshipping Communities (SAWCs), Strategic Ministries of the Grand Canyon Synod, and organizations or institutions in good standing with the ELCA or Grand Canyon Synod.
Projects may request up to $15,000. Innovative and new projects will receive priority in the funding process, while continuing projects may receive reduced funding from previous years. Proposals involving collaboration with another ELCA ministry and aligning with the Grand Canyon Synod Strategic Plan will also receive preferential consideration.
The Strategic Plan centers our shared ministry around three broad goals: Communicate Jesus, Connect People and Create Possibilities. Grant proposals are asked to identify up to three specific Strategic Plan goals their project will advance.
Approximately $175,000 is available for funding this fall, made possible through gifts and bequests received by the synod, congregations sharing a tithe of received bequests, proceeds from closed congregations, grant funds from the West Valley Lutheran Thrift Shop, and unrestricted gifts to the synod. Through this shared generosity, resources entrusted to the church can become new opportunities for ministry, witness and service throughout the Grand Canyon Synod.
Mark These Dates
Monday, August 24: Grant application submission window opens
Tuesday, August 25, 4:30 p.m.: Grant Application Webinar/Q&A
Friday, September 25: Application deadline
Applicants should review the complete grant information and application materials before beginning their proposals. Applications require detailed information about the project, its connection to the Synod Strategic Plan, implementation, anticipated outcomes, evaluation, sustainability and budget.
If your congregation or ministry has an idea that could communicate Jesus, connect people or create possibilities, now is the time to begin the conversation—and the August 25 webinar is the best place to start.
Questions about the grant process or application may be directed to Theresa Thornburgh in the Office of the Bishop at office@gcsynod.org or 602-957-3223.
