The average new church will cost $100K to get started, but it doesn’t have to cost that much.  Below are a few tips to keep it affordable:

1.  Buy used equipment:  Buying used equipment is a great way to save money.  It doesn’t look as clean and the quality might not be as great, but in our economy today people would rather see a more simple set up rather than experiencing the benefits of top quality.

2.  Meet in multipurpose buildings:  We meet at a school here in Austin and our weekly rent our first year was $240.

3.  Relational events:  So often we spend money in ministry on events, however, a lot of ministry events can happen on a smaller scale in homes and sometimes have a stronger influence.  Our first year’s budget was $140K and most of ministry was driven through relationships instead of expensive events.

4.  Less marketing:  We spend 3-5K a year in marketing.  It is good to “touch” the community once  or twice a year, but in general most marketing will either be overlooked or draw people to your church that you don’t want.

5.  Less branding:  Do you really need a pen with your church logo?  Save the money and buy regular pens.

You might not read this in every book on how to start a church, but in our economy today there are a lot of creative things you can do and be just as effective in ministry.

Year One:  $140K

Year Two:  $170K

Year Three:  Goal, $206K