Serving Neighbors Together: A New Lilly Endowment Grant Opportunity
Lilly Endowment’s new Serving Neighbors Through Congregational Collaborations Initiative will offer competitive grants of up to $5 million each to help strengthen partnerships between Christian congregations and charitable organizations. Initial concept papers are due January 19, 2027. The Endowment anticipates supporting approximately 60 organizations.
Who can apply? Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) public charities equipped to support groups of congregations and community organizations, including denominational agencies, church networks, faith-based service organizations, and theological schools. Individual congregations and local charitable organizations seeking funding for their own programs are not eligible. Congregations can explore participation through a qualifying organization developing a collaborative program. See the full eligibility guidelines.
The initiative seeks both to improve life in local communities and to deepen Christian faith through service. Programs will help congregations listen to community needs, build relationships with local organizations, and develop lasting efforts together.
For Lutherans, this invitation reflects our understanding that faith bears fruit in love: freed by God’s grace, we serve our neighbors. Across the Grand Canyon Synod, leaders can begin by listening to community partners and discerning where shared gifts could strengthen that service.
Funding follows two stages:
Planning: Interested organizations submit concept papers. Selected organizations are expected to receive planning grants of up to $50,000 in March 2027.
Implementation: Invited organizations may seek grants of up to $5 million for programs lasting up to four years. Proposals are due July 19, 2027; implementation funding is not guaranteed.
Attend a virtual information session:
Monday, November 2, 2026: Register — 1:30 p.m. Eastern / 11:30 a.m. Mountain and Arizona / 10:30 a.m. Pacific.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026: Register — 2 p.m. Eastern / noon Mountain and Arizona / 11 a.m. Pacific.
Take the next step: Share this opportunity with potential organizational partners, review the Request for Concept Papers, and register for an information session. Applicants must submit their concept paper and required supporting materials as one PDF by January 19, 2027, through the Serving Neighbors initiative webpage.
