The Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations (UUA) has several financing options for congregations looking to acquire land, build a spiritual home, or make improvements to their existing buildings. Below is a list of the current financing options offered by the UUA. Click on the link(s) for additional information about the specific program(s).
Building Loan Program
The Building Loan Program provides affordable financing for three types of project:
- building or buying a new spiritual home
- repairing or renovating existing facilities where substantial construction is not required,
- expanding current facilities where substantial construction is required, especially to make facilities more accessible.
The interest rate is set at the time of closing and is based on the seven-year Treasuries plus three-percent.
First Home Grant Program
The First Home Grant gives money to congregations seeking to purchase their first piece of land and/or to construct their first spiritual home. The program is not designed for congregations that already own a building.
Loan Guarantee Program
The Loan Guarantee Program offers to guarantee a loan made by a local lender in cases where the lender requires this support before agreeing to loan money to a congregation.
Site Acquisition Loan Program
The Site Acquisition Loan Program assists growing, financially healthy congregations that are without significant financial equity to acquire their first piece of land. The UUA, in consultation with and acting as an agent of a qualified congregation, will purchase a site in a location where demographics indicate a high potential for the growth of Unitarian Universalism. Note: this program is a loan and not a grant or gift.
Small Projects Loan Pilot Program
The Small Projects Loan Pilot Program promotes congregational growth by financing relatively inexpensive projects that can improve congregational life and well-being. Smaller, shorter term loans can create positive changes in congregations by providing a new tool to tackle issues that may seem beyond their current financial means. The program focuses on three broad categories of projects: mission-oriented, environmentally friendly, and critical/emergency in nature.
Green Construction Award Pilot Program
The Green Construction Award Pilot Program provides financial awards to congregations that build or renovate green and have received LEED certification. This pilot program is in effect until as many as six congregations have earned an award. Only one congregation has received this award. Congratulations to the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Wayne County in Wooster, OH for obtaining LEED Gold certification.
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