RESIDENCY GRANT

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THE GRANT APPLICATION WINDOW FOR 2026
IS NOW CLOSED. APPLICATIONS WILL REOPEN
IN JANUARY 2027.

OVERVIEW

To help foster new planting efforts, Pillar is once again hosting a residency grant program that will help fund residents at partner churches in 2026. We are especially interested in helping churches that have never planted before take their first steps toward sending. While there are many types of internship and residency programs in use today, our primary aim is to support qualified men in their latter stages of ministry preparation, those who are likely to plant in the next 12-24 months. All grant applications will be reviewed by a team of leaders within Pillar. Below are some key items to remember regarding the grant process.

Please contact Nathan Baumgartner for any questions pertaining to our grant program.

DEADLINE TO APPLY: 2.28.2026

  • Up to $12.5K available

  • Applicant churches should have a detailed residency plan that clearly depicts:

    • Competencies covered

    • Responsibilities for the resident

    • Expectation of hours per week

    • How will resident be identified and assessed?

    • What is the plan for involving the region?

  • What Pillar is looking for most:

    • A plan that involves the local Pillar region

    • A funding plan beyond the grant (which other churches are investing financially?)

FURTHER DETAILS

  • A robust residency plan (a clear, articulate syllabi with expectations & responsibilities for the resident) – this plan should include both theological & practical ministry objectives

  • A tangible end-goal (a cooperative church plant or revitalization for the region)

  • Our process for evaluation:

    • Interview with sending pastor(s) & regional leader

    • Please submit resident’s resume & other plans

    • Interview with potential resident

    • Advisory board review of residency plan