Catholic Extension is a national fundraising organization dedicated to aiding and fortifying impoverished mission dioceses across the United States. Since its inception in 1905, it has contributed over $500 million to American communities, motivated by a need, passion, and commitment to enhance the growth of the Catholic faith.
The grant program by Catholic Extension is designed to address the facility needs of Catholic communities, specifically through the support of construction, expansion, or renovation projects. It aims to promote the dynamic practice of faith and foster community within the Church. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate urgent facility needs, a solid funding strategy and business plan, strong local support, and the communities' limited means for funding. Qualifying projects can include new church buildings, community spaces, program spaces, residential facilities for ministers, and temporary structures. There are two funding categories: minor requests (under $5,000) for the most under-resourced, covering repairs and small furnishing needs; and major requests (over $5,000) with funding amounts generally not exceeding $100,000 for significant building projects, offered in the form of a matching challenge.