2025-2026 Grant Programs:

Microgrants for 2025 are available. Microgrants are one-time up to $1,000 funding available for the Olentangy River District Churches' mission and ministry seed money or emergency needs. 

Quarterly deadlines for submission: February 12, May 7, July 30, October 29

Local Outreach Grants for 2026 are now available for Olentangy River District churches! These grants are awarded annually to congregations starting new outreach ministries and those with existing community ministries that are evolving. The purpose of the money is to enable congregations to find specific ways to reach out to their community in hands-on service ministries with an emphasis on building relationships with those being served. Grant applications are due to UMCM on October 1st at 12 PM.

Other Grant Opportunities: Grant applications for District Mission Centers and Freedom Schools are also now available for 2026! These applications are due to UMCM on October 1st at 12 PM. Please consult with the UMCM Director or District Superintendent before applying.

All applications must be on-time and complete when submitted. The application links are listed on this webpage. A site visitor from the UMCM Committee will contact each applying ministry to arrange a meeting. Site visits will take place during October. The UMCM Committee will meet to review all grant applications and award funding, and awards letters will be sent following the November Board Meeting.

For more information about the grant application process, please contact UMCM Director Matt Yoder at myoder@wocumc.org.

You will find listings of current grant applications and funded ministries from the previous grant cycle below.