Local Mission Fund 2027 grants now open

Across our church, God is at work in local communities through the faithful witness of congregations. Every day we see inspiring examples of people stepping out in faith, building relationships, caring for their neighbours, sharing the hope we have in Christ and responding to the unique needs of their local context. The Local Mission Fund exists to support and strengthen these efforts.

If your congregation has an idea for serving your community or growing in mission, a Local Mission Fund grant may help bring that vision to life.

The Local Mission Fund is designed to encourage congregations to try new things, deepen their engagement with their local community, and grow in missional confidence as God’s people sent into the world. Grants are available to support projects that are community-focused, collaborative, and grounded in sharing the love of Jesus. This could include new ministry initiatives, partnerships with nearby churches, schools or local agencies, or bringing innovation to sharing the gospel.

You don’t need to have everything perfectly planned before you apply. In fact, the fund is there to support ideas at various stages of development. What matters most is a willingness to discern prayerfully where God is leading you and a desire to step out in faith.

Applying for a grant is also an opportunity to reflect. What is God already doing in your community? Where are the opportunities to connect, serve and share? How might your congregation be uniquely placed to respond? These questions can help shape a project that is both meaningful and sustainable.

In addition to providing financial support, previous grant recipients have found that the process also encouraged collaboration, strengthened local partnerships and helped their congregations be more intentional about mission.

We warmly encourage all congregations to consider applying. The Local Mission Fund is here to support you as you participate in God’s mission in your local context. We offer Seed Fund grants of $10,000 and Major Fund grants of up to $100,000.

Expressions of interest for 2027 grants are now open, with applications closing on 20 August 2026. We look forward to seeing how God will continue to work through your communities.

For more information, including application guidelines, key dates and project news, please visit the Local Mission Fund page at www.lca.org.au/local-mission-fund or contact me at jodi.brook@lca.org.au

Jodi Brook is the Local Mission coordinator.