Fueling Innovation: A Look Back at the Innovation Fund 2024

Introduction: In 2022 and 2023, Missio Nexus launched an Innovation Fund to support member mission agencies in their innovative projects. With the backing of a strategic partner, the fund aimed to propel ministries into new realms of evangelism, discipleship, and church planting. Over two years, nearly 200 applications were received, showcasing a wide range of innovative projects from around the globe. 

Fund Objectives and Process: The fund’s primary goal was to nurture innovation and provide a means for enduring change. In 2023, $450,000 was disbursed, and for 2024, the fund allocated $600,000 into distinctive grants. The grants were categorized into Micro, Macro, and Collaborative Innovation Grants, each tailored to different project scopes and needs. 

Grant Categories: 

• Micro Innovation Grant: Funding range: $25,000 – $50,000. Tailored for smaller, impactful projects with a keen emphasis on innovation. Awarded to approximately 5-7 Missio Nexus member ministries. 

• Macro Innovation Grant: Funding range: $75,000 – $100,000. Geared towards ministries with a well-established innovation process. Emphasis on illustrating and articulating the innovation process and quantifying end-user impact. Exclusive grants awarded to 1-2 Missio Nexus member ministries. 

• Collaborative Innovation Grant: Funding range: $150,000 – $200,000. Encourages joint applications from 2+ mission ministries. Requires a proven working model of collaboration. Focus on demonstrating a collective approach to an innovative idea. 

Application Process: Prospective applicants participated in a webinar hosted by Missio Nexus President Ted Esler and Executive Director Michael VanHuis. Applications were reviewed internally and by a group of leaders from the Missio Nexus community, with final approval from the fund donor. 

Conclusion: The Innovation Fund has been a catalyst for creative and impactful projects, and this series will delve into the insights and reflections from the 2024 fund.    Learn more at Ministry Innovation Fund | Missio Nexus