Funding Spotlight: The Esther & Harold Mertz Foundation Grant

Empowering Education, Wellness, and Faith-Based Service

At Exousia, we’re always watching for funding opportunities that align with the mission of local churches and ministries — and the Esther and Harold Mertz Foundation Grant is a standout option. With awards ranging from $10,000 to $1 million and no set deadline, this foundation supports organizations that strengthen their communities through education, wellness, recreation, and faith-based outreach.

Focus Areas: What the Mertz Foundation Funds

The Esther and Harold Mertz Foundation was built on the belief that stronger communities start with opportunity — the opportunity to learn, grow, stay healthy, and live with dignity. Their grants support four key areas:

1. Educational Initiatives

The Foundation believes education is the foundation for breaking cycles of poverty and empowering independence.

Funding may support:

• Curriculum and program enhancements

• Technology or facility upgrades

• Scholarships for students maintaining strong academic performance

  
  

💡 Example: A church-operated preschool or Christian academy could apply for funding to upgrade classroom technology, add a new early learning curriculum, or provide scholarships for low-income families committed to excellence in education.

2. Recreational Programs

The Foundation values programs that promote health, creativity, and skill development — especially for children and youth.

Grants may support:

• Year-round or summer sports, arts, or music programs

• The construction or renovation of recreation spaces

• Equipment purchases for safe and engaging activities

  
  

💡 Example: A church could request funding to renovate a youth gym, create a community music program, or host summer art and sports camps that bring children together in a nurturing environment.

3. Medical & Health Support

This funding area supports programs that improve access to medical care and health education — especially in low-resource areas or during emergencies.

Support may include:

• Purchasing medical equipment

• Establishing health clinics or wellness programs

• Providing disaster response support in affected communities

  
  

💡 Example: A faith-based nonprofit could apply for funds to launch a community health fair, purchase AED machines, or partner with local clinics to provide free health screenings for families in need.

4. Faith-Based Outreach

Faith-based grants focus on meeting the practical needs of individuals and families while reflecting God’s love in action. Eligible projects include:

• Food programs (pantries, meal delivery, community dinners)

• Housing and shelter initiatives for those in crisis or transition

• Healthcare ministries serving uninsured or low-income individuals

  
  

💡 Example: A church could apply to expand its food pantry, upgrade kitchen equipment for a soup kitchen, or provide emergency housing for families displaced by natural disasters.

Award Range & Application Details

• Grant Amounts: $10,000 – $1,000,000

• Deadline: Rolling (apply anytime)

• Eligibility: Must be a 501(c)(3) organization in good standing

• Not Eligible: Political or lobbying organizations

  
  

Applicants begin with a short Pre-Application online:

👉 https://mertzfoundation.org/pre-application/

You’ll receive a full application link if your project fits the Foundation’s focus. Responses typically arrive within 30 days, and funds are distributed quarterly after board approval.

How Exousia Can Help

Navigating a private foundation grant like this can feel overwhelming — especially when your team is already focused on ministry and community outreach. That’s where Exousia comes in.

We specialize in helping churches and faith-based organizations:

• Identify funding opportunities that align with their mission and programs

• Develop strong pre-applications that capture the Foundation’s interest

• Write compelling full proposals with clear budgets, outcomes, and impact statements

• Plan sustainable programming that ensures long-term growth and readiness for future grants

  
  

💡 For example:

• A church launching a community music and art center could use Exousia’s Research Portfolio service to find grants for instruments, instructors, and facility upgrades.

• A congregation hosting youth mentorship or recreation programs could work with Exousia to craft a Mertz Foundation proposal that demonstrates how these activities build confidence and community.

• A ministry offering food, housing, or counseling could partner with Exousia to strengthen its grant readiness and connect its outreach to measurable community impact.

  
  

Exousia’s team understands how to bridge the gap between faith and funding — helping your organization translate vision into a professional, fundable proposal that resonates with private foundations like Mertz.

Final Thoughts

The Esther and Harold Mertz Foundation is more than a grant — it’s an opportunity to build capacity, expand outreach, and invest in lasting community transformation. Whether your organization focuses on education, health, or faith-based service, this foundation offers a chance to grow your impact without relying on government funding.

Exousia is here to help you get started.

Let’s turn your ministry vision into a winning proposal that changes lives.

📩 Contact us today to learn how we can help your church apply for the Mertz Foundation Grant and other funding opportunities that fit your mission.

Email: info@exousiagroup.com

Phone: 765-962-6581