2024 Go Grants

Go Grants will resource innovative ministry ideas that help West Ohio UM churches develop relationships beyond the walls of our buildings and within our communities, to make new disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

Go Grant Requirements:

• Only chartered United Methodist Churches and campuses of chartered UMC’s are eligible for Go Grants.
• Churches who disaffiliate within seven years of receiving a Go Grant will be required to return the funds to West Ohio Conference.

Applications will be available September 1, 2023.  Deadline to submit applications via online is October 1, 2023.

Innovative ideas will be considered in the following 7 categories:

• Family Ministries [a ministry supporting families, children, youth, or college aged leaders]
• Emerging Gen Leaders [a ministry led by children, youth, or college aged leaders]
• Inclusion [a ministry focused on hospitality; intentionally including people who are often overlooked]
• Social Transformation [a ministry focused on changing/alleviating institutionalized norms]
• Community Engagement [a ministry focused on cultivating long-term relationships within your community]
• Fresh Expressions/GHX [a new expression of church happening beyond the building]
• Building Bridges [a building enhancement to support better accessibility and connection for those outside of the church building ie. signage, handicap accessibility, media enhancements]

Go Grant Whiteboard Zoom Sessions Available!

Need help brainstorming your Go Grant idea? Or just have questions about Go Grants? Join a Go Grant Whiteboard Zoom session to collaborate with previous recipients who know what it takes to receive a Go Grant.

September 11 Noon - 1pm Sign up here

September 18 Noon - 1pm Sign up here

Once submitted, your application will be reviewed by your District Superintendent.

Each grant recipient and 3 guests will be invited to attend the Bishop’s Go Awards and so that the church can be recognized for their vision for a new ministry. The Bishop’s Go Awards will be held on February 4, 2024 @ Trinity UMC in Columbus.  The Event will be from 4 – 5:30pm and is by invitation only. This will be a time to gather and celebrate new ministries together.

Details of online app:

1. Tell us about your creative idea. (2 paragraphs max)
2. How does this build relationships with people outside of your church building? (2 paragraphs max)
3. Who is doing this with you? (team members/community partnerships) (1 paragraph)
4. How can West Ohio resource your idea? (training, coaching, funding)
5. What is your budget?
6. Record a 60-90 second video and include the following info:
   • what is your idea?
   • what is the ask?
   • upload to gogrants@wocumc.org
   • use cell phone or similar
   • All recipients/ideas will be recognized and celebrated at Bishop’s Go Awards in Columbus on February 4, 2024 at Trinity UMC.

If you have questions or need help with your idea, email gogrants@wocumc.org.