Fall 2026 Grant Focus: Clergy Development
Provisional or Ordained Clergy Higher Education & Spiritual Discernment Grant
Application Opens September 1, 2026
Application Closes October 15, 2026
Higher education can provide spiritual renewal for clergy, but not every appointment provides the level of professional development funding needed to cover a higher degree. These grants are intended to allow clergy to seek higher education at the seminary or program of their choice, or to seek specialized training or coaching.
• Purpose: To contribute to stronger pastoral leadership, spiritual vitality, and long-term ministry sustainability for clergy by providing financial support for provisional and ordained clergy seeking higher education (graduate or certificate programs); specialized training on pastoral care, preaching, worship, counseling, leadership, or community engagement; or coaching support for spiritual discernment, vocational clarity, boundary setting, and ministry effectiveness.
• Eligibility: Provisional and ordained clergy in West Ohio who are currently serving an appointment in a local church, extension ministry, or conference position, and who are actively enrolled in or pursing higher education, specialized training, or professional coaching.
• Grant Range: $850-$3500
• Evaluation Criteria: Applications must include the following: potential for impact on personal well-being and ministry effectiveness, and anticipated budget. Clarity and feasibility of the proposed plan must be evident. Applicants must agree to submit a report on outcomes of the grant within 12 months.
Contact Maddy DeWitt at 380-223-9229 or mdewitt@wocumc.org for more information. Please see below for the link to the application.
Provisional or Ordained Clergy Higher Education & Spiritual Discernment Grant Application Link - Opens Sept. 1st: TBD
View our grant program guidelines below for more details. You can open the guidelines in a new tab by hovering over the box with an arrow in the top right corner and clicking "Pop out." You can also learn more about our 2026 grant program by clicking here: https://www.westohioumc.org/2026-united-methodist-foundation-west-ohio-grants.