Deadline Approaching for Ethnic In-Service Training Grant Proposals

Applications are now available for the annual Ethnic In-Service Training (EIST) grants administered by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM). As the leadership development agency for The United Methodist Church, GBHEM is committed to raising up new leaders from diverse backgrounds. Funds awarded through the EIST grant are an important part of that mission.

EIST grants are awarded in sums up to $10,000 and are given to programs designed to bolster recruitment, training and retention of ethnic persons for leadership positions at every level of the church and its ministry. GBHEM encourages grant proposals for partnerships and collaborative efforts in campus ministry, chaplaincy and institutions of higher education and general agencies. The agency also considers applications for innovative programs in ministry areas such as children’s homes, retirement homes, camping and retreat centers, and hospitals.

For example, past EIST grant recipients include Freedom Schools, a Virginia Annual Conference clergywomen’s retreat and a project planned by the United Methodist Native American Caucus.

Funds for the EIST grant come from a portion of the World Communion Sunday offerings allocated to GBHEM by The United Methodist Church. Application and eligibility information is available here. For additional information, contact GBHEM by email at bcfumc@gbhem.org or by phone at (615)340-7378.

The application deadline is March 8 and prospective applicants will need to create a profile to apply through the ISTS Portal. EIST recipients will receive notice and funding in June.

About GBHEM: As the leadership development agency of The United Methodist Church, the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry’s mission is to build capacity for United Methodist lay and clergy leaders to discover, claim and flourish in Christ’s calling in their lives, by creating connections and providing resources to aid in recruitment, education, professional development and spiritual formation. Every elder, deacon and licensed local pastor benefits from our training and candidacy programs. Many young adults find help in clarifying their vocation and God’s call in their lives through our leadership and discernment programs. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook: @GBHEM.