Churches across the country are facing financial challenges, with offerings alone sometimes unable to sustain the full scope of ministry work. When budgets are tight, leaders must make strategic decisions to reduce costs while still fulfilling their mission.
We asked churches: "How do you fund your church when offerings alone aren’t enough?" Their insights, combined with practical strategies, can help churches navigate financial difficulties while staying focused on ministry.
1. Reevaluate Staffing and Salaries
Several churches shared that they keep salaries low or rely on volunteer-based leadership:
“We have only five paid staff members, and all other positions are voluntary.”
“Our pastor and leaders are bi-vocational, meaning they work other jobs and serve the church part-time.”
“No one on our staff is paid. We trust God to provide.”
If your church is facing financial hardship, consider:
Transitioning some roles to volunteer positions.
Exploring bi-vocational leadership options.
Offering small stipends rather than full salaries.
2. Reduce Facility Expenses
Facilities are often one of the largest expenses for churches. Churches shared creative ways they reduce these costs:
“We rent out part of our building to another congregation, and that income covers utilities.”
“We keep our HVAC usage minimal, adjusting the temperature to lower costs.”
“Our rental income covers all building-related expenses.”
Consider:
Renting out space for community events, small businesses, or another congregation.
Reducing utility costs by adjusting heating, cooling, and lighting usage.
Downsizing or sharing facilities if your space exceeds your needs.
3. Charge Small Fees for Events & Programs
Many churches offer free programs, but some are shifting toward small fees to cover costs:
“Our Bible study charges $35 per person to cover materials.”
“We ask families to contribute to youth event expenses (e.g., buying pizza for a gathering).”
“We charge a nominal $5 fee for Vacation Bible School, with scholarships available.”
Offering free scholarships ensures no one is excluded while allowing for sustainable ministry funding.
4. Be Transparent and Ask for Support
Financial transparency builds trust and encourages giving:
“We told our congregation: ‘Our expenses are this, and our income is this. We need your help to continue.’”
“We did a sermon series on generosity, which resulted in increased giving.”
“We literally pray over our offerings every week for supernatural provision.”
Consider:
Communicating openly about financial needs.
Teaching on stewardship and generosity.
Praying as a congregation for financial provision.
5. Explore Grants and Fundraising
Some churches have found success with external funding:
“The Walmart ‘Spark Good’ grant offers up to $5,000. Churches can apply to multiple locations.”
“We partner with businesses like Chick-fil-A and local pizza shops that donate a percentage of sales to our church.”
“We received a grant to start a parish nursing program, providing medical services to the community.”
Look into:
Denominational grants that support church growth.
Local business partnerships for fundraising nights.
Community and outreach grants for specific projects.
6. Reduce Unnecessary Expenses
Churches shared several ways they cut costs in everyday operations:
“We stopped printing bulletins—everyone gets a digital version.”
“No more free coffee and donuts. Instead, we accept donations of snacks.”
“We use free or discounted software for nonprofits, like Canva and TechSoup.”
Cost-saving tips:
Switch to digital bulletins and announcements.
Reduce or eliminate coffee/snack budgets.
Use nonprofit discounts for software, office supplies, and technology.
7. Encourage Estate Giving & Long-Term Planning
A less commonly discussed but effective approach is planned giving:
“We encourage members to include the church in their estate planning.”
“A family foundation of one of our parishioners provided an outreach grant.”
Encouraging legacy giving can provide long-term financial stability while aligning with members’ desire to leave a lasting impact.
8. Use Free or Low-Cost Church Management Solutions
One of the easiest ways to cut costs is by using SteepleMate for free! With SteepleMate, you can manage your church operations—including communication, member tracking, and online giving—without spending a dime. This eliminates the need for costly software subscriptions while still maintaining efficiency.
Final Thoughts: Steward Well & Trust God
While financial difficulties can be challenging, churches that steward resources wisely, communicate transparently, and trust in God’s provision find creative ways to thrive. Whether through volunteer leadership, facility rentals, small event fees, grant opportunities, or reducing unnecessary costs, churches can continue fulfilling their mission while maintaining financial health.
💡 What cost-cutting strategies have worked for your church? Share in the comments below!