We have a number of funding opportunities which churches can explore to help support them with their mission and ministry.
On this page we give details of:
Property Grants
Boiler Hardship Grant
Net Zero Carbon Quick Wins Grants
Other external funding opportunities
We also provide some information about other organisations with funding opportunities that churches may be interested in exploring.
Property Grants
We are pleased to offer two grant funds (Missional Property Fund Grants and Minor Repairs and Improvements Grants) to support repairs and improvements to church buildings. Please visit our dedicated page for Property Grants.
Boiler Hardship Grant
Net Zero Carbon Quick Wins Grants 2026-2028
The Diocese of Rochester will distribute a small number of grants, totalling approximately £25550 each year, to help parishes on their way to achieving net zero carbon. The focus is on reducing the energy footprint of buildings including churches and church halls by completing works which will improve energy efficiency and/or support a transition to renewable energy.
Projects up to £3000 can be covered in full by this grant.
For projects over £3000, grants will (in addition to the £3000) cover 50% of the excess up to a maximum grant of £10,000.
Example:
If a total project cost is £12000, you can apply for £7500 (£3000 + 50% of £9000)
The Diocese will be reviewing all applications in one round each year. The dates for 2026 are as follows:
- Applications can be submitted anytime until 31 August 2026
- Applications will be reviewed throughout September 2026
- Notification of outcome by 2 October 2026
To be considered for the grant, the building must have the Energy Footprint Tool (EFT) completed for the last full calendar year, and the church must be at least ‘registered’ for the A Rocha Eco Church scheme.
Types of projects include:
- Increasing energy efficiency
- Decarbonising heating and lighting
- Temporary heating solutions
- Electrical upgrades
A full list of eligible projects and grant conditions can be found here.
How to apply
Download the application form here
Submit your application by 31st August 2026
You can apply at any time, and our Diocesan Panel will aim to make a decision as soon as possible. Funds need to be given to parishes by the end of 2025.
You can also register your interest by emailing netzero@rochester.anglican.org, and our Net Zero Adviser can support you through the process.
The grant scheme is administered by the Net Zero Adviser, and the decision-making panel consists of the Archdeacons, DAC Secretary, Diocesan Secretary and the Net Zero Team.
You can start preparing for your application with these first steps:
- Complete your Energy Footprint Tool data for the church buildings.
- If you do not have an energy audit or church decarbonisation action plan, download and complete the Practical Pathway to Net Zero Carbon to generate a carbon reduction plan.
- Register with A Rocha Eco Church if you have not already
- Apply for any relevant permissions required (List B, Faculty, Planning Permission)
Please note: If we receive a high demand for the grant, then there is funding available, applications will be prioritised by looking at the following:
- The expected impact of the project itself on carbon emissions
- If the project is part of a plan which will enable wider net zero actions
- If you have or are developing a net zero action plan
- Any additional missional benefits that may be enabled as a result of the project
- The church deprivation rank.
- Status of permissions needed to proceed with the work
- Other available Church of England grants that you may be eligible for
- Unforeseen circumstances
There may also be some judgment by the Diocese as to the impact of the grants awarded as a whole.
If you would like further information or would like support with an application please email netzero@rochester.anglican.org
Other external funding opportunities
The National Churches Trust gives grants ranging from small grants for maintenance issues, to larger grants for building repairs and the installation of toilets and kitchens. Parishes need to have approval in place before applying for a grant. There are usually two funding rounds a year.
The Friends of Kent Churches gives grants to churches for maintenance works and also considers applications for toilets and kitchens. There are two applications rounds each year, with deadlines of 1st May and 1st November.
Please note that churches within the London Boroughs of Bromley and Bexley are eligible for grants from the Friends of Kent Churches.
The Benefact Trust gives grants to Christian organisations, including for repairs and improvements, especially where works support wider community use.