2026 Synod Grant Applications Now Open
Mission & Ministry Grant
Warner Trust Grant
Application Window:
March 2, 2026 – April 24, 2026
Apply Online Now
MISSION & MINISTRY GRANT
The Mission and Ministry Grant provides annual funding to support congregations and ministry partners in developing and expanding projects that advance the synod’s mission priorities. These grants are intended for specific ministry initiatives—such as outreach efforts, new program development, community engagement, or innovative expressions of church—that strengthen Christian witness and service beyond a congregation’s regular operating budget. Awards are typically modest in size and competitive, so applicants should clearly articulate how their proposed project aligns with the synod’s mission, demonstrates measurable impact, and represents a faithful and strategic use of limited endowment resources. Application deadline is April 24, 2026.
OR YOU MAY DOWNLOAD APPLICATION
WARNER TRUST GRANT
The Charles and Mable Warner Trust Grant of the Southwest California Synod (ELCA) provides funding specifically for the construction, renovation, or repair of Sunday School facilities and for the advancement of youth Christian education. Grants are intended to support capital improvements or facility projects that directly enhance spaces used for children’s and youth faith formation, ensuring safe, dedicated, and developmentally appropriate environments for Christian instruction. Because funds are restricted to these purposes, applicants must clearly demonstrate that the requested support will be used exclusively for Sunday School facilities or youth Christian education initiatives and provide a detailed description of the project, budget, and anticipated impact on youth ministry. Application deadline is April 24, 2026.
OR YOU MAY DOWNLOAD APPLICATION
Application Instructions
Application Window: March 2, 2026 - April 24, 2026
Apply online or download and email or mail the application.
Downloaded applications should be filled out and emailed to grants@socalsynod.org and cc’d to frusso@socalsynod.org
-OR- mailed to:Fernando Russo - Endowment Committee - 2026 Gr
1300 E. Colorado Street
Glendale, CA, 91205
Have questions? Email frusso@socalsynod.org
About the Granting Process
The Synod’s grant cycle follows a structured and transparent framework that includes clear communication timelines, committee review, governance oversight, and defined approval processes. This ensures that endowment funds are stewarded responsibly, allocated equitably, and aligned with the Synod’s mission priorities.
FAQs
Below are some frequently asked questions about our grant process. If you have further questions, please email frusso@socalsynod.org.
-
Congregations, worshipping communities and ministries affiliated with ELCA congregations in the Southwest California Synod.
-
Unfortunately, late grant applications will not be considered.
-
Yes. Congregations must have submitted their Form A to be eligible to apply.
-
Award decisions will be communicated via email to applicants during the third week of May. Grants will be formally presented at the Synod Assembly.