2026 Grant Landscape for Faith-Based Ministries: What’s Really Changing
For many years, many ministries have relied on donations and offerings to "keep their lights on" and God has been faithful.
But what might come as a shock to most pastors and ministry leaders is this: the federal government doesn't only provide grants. The federal government also awards contracts.
And those contracts aren't just for construction companies or tech companies. Those contracts are for feeding programs, mentoring initiatives, workforce development, counseling, and community restoration projects.
When I sit across pastors and ministry founders, I see individuals that have already been leading change: feeding families, sheltering survivors, mentoring youth. They’ve been doing the work of community transformation for years without federal funding to support it.
2026 is a turning point.
The government is not just expanding the amount of funding that is available, but it is also widening the table for the faith community to be a partner in long-term contracts that sustain impact beyond just donations and Sunday giving.
This moment is not about "chasing government money."
It’s about positioning your ministry as a community partner; ready to deliver, ready to grow, and ready to sustain your mission with structure and strategy.
A Shift Worth Paying Attention To
The new federal funding landscape for ministries is shifting rapidly, and this time, faith-based organizations are part of the conversation.
The federal government is not trying to fund religion. It is trying to build and strengthen communities that already know how to show up in crisis, communities led by you.
So, if you’ve ever felt like you do more with less, this is your chance to be ready for something more permanent.
What’s Changing in 2026: A Federal Focus on Faith and Security
1. Security Grants Are Expanding
The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) is no longer a far-off opportunity. It has established itself as one of the largest funding programs for houses of worship and faith-based nonprofits.
In 2025, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) provided $274.5 million to this grant program. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) supplied $110 million to protect communities of worship in more than 600 locations across the country, from cameras and lighting to gates, access control, and staff training.
That level of investment sends a significant message: faith spaces are essential community assets that deserve protection.
2. Structure and Readiness Will Matter More Than Ever
To apply for FEMA faith-based grants, ministries must go through their State Administrative Agency (SAA), not directly to FEMA. Most applicants need to be registered as 501(c)(3) nonprofits.
There are two categories:
NSGP-UA: for higher-risk urban areas.
NSGP-S: for non-urban or rural areas.
Every organization may apply for up to six applications (three per category), which means ministries with multiple sites can apply for each location.
The message here is simple: the more organized your structure, the stronger your eligibility.
3. Risk-Informed Funding Is the New Standard
This isn’t just about installing cameras. FEMA now requires every applicant to submit a vulnerability and risk assessment: a document that shows you understand their community threats and have a plan to protect it.
Your faith identity, your mission, and your role in the community’s safety will all contribute to your proposal ranking.
Ministries that demonstrate faith, service, and security in a clear and measured way are rising to the top.
Why This Matters for Faith Leaders
When I say this is your time, I truly mean it.
This transition isn't political or paper, but it's about preparation. It's about a commitment to enabling your ministry to continue to serve while the world around grows more unpredictable.
When you position your ministry for federal funding opportunities, you're not just applying for a grant. You're creating testimony for stewardship, trust, and impact.
Here is what grant readiness for ministries looks like in this season:
You've established an account on SAM.gov, and you have your UEI number.
Your governance documents, bylaws, and financials are up to date.
You can clearly articulate the risks of your ministry and what you plan to do about them.
Faith-based organizations that are doing this work now will be the ones partnering in the national conversation about safety, resilience, and mission.
What’s Holding Ministries Back
Let’s be honest about the obstacles that often hold ministries back from the step they were meant for:
1. Uncertainty about eligibility.
Many leaders feel that only larger, well-established ministries are considered eligible. The truth is that FEMA prioritizes smaller organizations with clear community impact and readiness.
2. Fear of the process.
The paperwork can seem overwhelming. But the reality is, once you navigate the system, it’s simply a list of steps that almost anyone can follow with guidance.
3. Mistrust of government grants.
Federal funding does not mean a new call. It allows you to fulfill your call with more safety and strength.
4. Lack of structure.
Faith without systems can slow your progress. Faith has been a key driver to move the ministry forward, but governance and clean accounting have been the principles of every successful faith-based grant application.
How to Position Your Ministry for 2026
If you feel stirred in your spirit, a feeling that your ministry is supposed to grow, secure, and expand, here are the ways you can act on it now.
Engage Your SAA: Each state has a designated agency responsible for Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) applications. Connect with them early to learn about their process and deadlines.
Conduct a Risk Assessment: Collect any notes regarding your possible threats, vulnerabilities, and security measures that ensure your facility will be safer.
Get Your Paperwork Ready: Make sure your 501(c)(3), UEI, financials, and board paperwork are ready to go.
Join a Training or Academy: Having a plan is good. Having a proven process is better. The Faith & Funding Academy walks you through every step, so you don’t have to navigate it alone.
This Is About More Than Security
These federal security grants will contribute to the protection of your buildings and people, but the heart of this work is going deeper. It’s about protecting your mission and purpose.
By investing in grant readiness, you’re saying, “Our mission matters enough to prepare.” You’re creating safe spaces to worship, serve others, and transform the community.
And that’s the type of bold leadership that we need in this world right now.
If you’re ready to position your ministry for federal funding with confidence, clarity, and purpose, the Faith & Funding Academy is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Your mission is already changing lives. Let’s ensure that it is protected, resourced, and positioned for what’s next.
