Strengthen Your Church’s Digital Presence: ELCA Offers Free Digital Assessments (Apply Now)

Applications are now open for a limited number of Digital Ministry Assessments through ELCA Innovation, with just 25 slots available between now and August 2026. These assessments, conducted in partnership with Evoke Engagement Experts, are designed to help congregations and ministry organizations better understand and strengthen their online presence.

In a rapidly changing digital landscape, how we share the gospel and connect with our communities continues to evolve. ELCA Innovation is offering this first tier of support to equip congregations and ministries with practical tools and insights to more effectively proclaim God’s story in today’s world.

What is a Digital Assessment?
Through a comprehensive review of your website, social media platforms, and search visibility, Evoke will analyze how your ministry is currently engaging online. Following this review, your organization will receive:

  • A detailed report with findings and prioritized recommendations

  • Insights into which communication channels are most effective

  • Guidance on improving website usability and engagement

  • Strategies to strengthen social media presence

  • Opportunities to expand your reach to new audiences

Each participating organization will also receive a 30–60 minute consultation call to walk through the findings and next steps.

Who is eligible?

  • ELCA congregations

  • Synod-authorized worshiping communities and outreach ministries

  • ELCA-affiliated campus and outdoor ministries

What to expect:
Participation requires temporarily sharing login access to your website and social media accounts so Evoke can assess analytics and performance. The process includes the assessment, a written report, and a follow-up consultation.

How to apply:
Congregations and organizations can sign up now using the official form:
👉 https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/GuqKtty7iG

Due to high interest, up to five organizations per month may be selected at random if applications exceed available slots. All applicants will be notified of their status by the end of August 2026.

Looking Ahead: Additional Digital Ministry Grants

This assessment is just the beginning. Later in 2026, ELCA Innovation plans to launch additional tiers of support, including:

  • Thirty $3,000 grants

  • Three $30,000 grants

Details and application materials will be released through ELCA GrantMaker. To receive updates, email lab@elca.orgwith the subject line: Request for Digital Ministry Grant Launch Notification.

As a church rooted in God’s story, we are called not only to proclaim the gospel but to do so in ways that meet people where they are—including online. These digital assessments offer a practical and faithful step toward more effective, creative, and outward-facing ministry.

ELCA, Leader ResourcesBrian FlatgardInnovation, ELCA Innovation LabComment