2027 Incubate Partner Applications

The National Benevolent Association is accepting Incubate Partner applications from Disciples health and social service organizations. Being in partnership with NBA involves a multi-year relationship that includes a specialized menu of resources and support for your young ministry/organization.

Applications will be accepted from September 1st-November 1st, 2026. (Note: this is a change from previous years generally, in light of our learnings from the application/interview timeline earlier this year.) 

Interested applicants are required to connect with NBA’s Social Entrepreneurship team prior to starting the application process; contact NBA Director of Social Entrepreneurship, Rev. Darnell Fennell(opens in new tab), for more information.

Our Partners receive up to four years of access to professional consultants, opportunities for learning, peer support, and grant funding. In a spirit of mutuality, Incubate Partners agree to share the story of their mission with the wider Disciples community and beyond. Together, we expand the church’s understanding of and capacity for health and social service ministry as part of Christ’s work in the world.

In alignment with the NBA’s commitment to prioritize the work of reconciliation and anti-racism, the Social Entrepreneurship Program is dedicated to supporting and uplifting social enterprises that are led by or serve historically marginalized, under-represented, and under-resourced people groups. In our efforts to dismantle white supremacy, we are sensitive to Incubate Partner applications that are addressing systemic needs, and place justice and equity at the center of their organization.

Application Form Previews

Incubate Partner Application Form(opens in new tab)

Board Representative Supplemental Application Form(opens in new tab)

We are now accepting applications for Incubate Partners! Applications will be accepted through November 1st, 2026.

 
Apply Now(opens in new tab)

 

REQUIREMENTS

Incubate Partner Eligibility:

Incorporated for 10 years or less.

2 years of programming.

Possesses an active board that meets consistently.

Proof of fundraising.

Disciples-affiliated. This means being founded in partnership with a Disciples congregation or the NBA; having a set percentage of Disciples board members; and/or having an Executive Director/CEO who is a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Health and/or social service-related.

Aligned with the mission of the NBA.

A tax-exempt nonprofit that has conducted active programming for at least two years.

Innovative—serving communities in creative and unique ways

Diverse—including organizations with diverse staffs and leadership teams, as well as projects that serve Black, Indigenous, and/or other communities of color.