The Onboarding Phase of Support Raising
You Said Yes… Now What?
So you finally said yes to ministry, and now you're asked to raise support. That’s big. It’s brave. And let’s be honest: it’s a little scary too.
You might be thinking:
“I don’t know enough people.”
“My friends don’t have money.”
“What if I fail?”
You’re not alone. Many Christians stepping into full-time ministry feel overwhelmed at the start. That’s why the onboarding phase exists: to give you a foundation and help you build support step by step. And yes, you can do it, even if your contact list isn’t full of doctors and lawyers.
God Sees You and Will Help You
Here’s something to hold onto as you begin:
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” - Isaiah 41:10
God doesn’t call us to do hard things alone. He gives strength, help, and people who will walk with us. That includes building your support team.
Here’s Where You Start
If you’re in the onboarding phase, this is the time to build your foundation. No skipping steps. No shortcuts. Just faithful, focused work.
1. Build a Big Name List (500+ Names)
Start by listing everyone you know. Don’t filter or judge whether they can give. Just write names down.
Look through:
Your phone contacts
Social media friends/followers
Church directories
College classmates
Old neighbors, coworkers, teachers
Family and friends (even their parents!)
Set a timer. Spend 30 minutes each day working through different groups. It might take 15–20 hours, but it’s worth it.
2. Identify Your Top 25 Connectors
These are people who love you, love God, and know others. They don’t have to be wealthy, but they do need to be connected.
You’ll ask these 25 to be on your Connection Team to pray, introduce you to others, and walk with you through this journey.
3. Collect Phone Numbers & Emails
You can’t schedule meetings without contact info. So dig deep.
Search old emails
Ask mutual friends
Use social media tools
Even export your phone contacts
Start with what you have, and work from there.
4. Make the Ask for a Meeting (Not Money Yet)
When you reach out, don’t ask for money. Just ask for a short meeting.
Try this simple script:
“Hi [Name], I’d love to share what God is doing in my life and ministry. Can we set up a quick 30-minute call next week to catch up?”
You’ll share your heart, your mission, and invite them to be part of it. But first, just get that meeting.
5. Stay in the Work (It’s Gonna Stretch You)
You’ll be asked to make 70 calls and send 70 emails per week. It’s not easy but it’s doable.
You’ll also attend 1–2 networking events weekly to meet new people. Choose spaces where you’ll find believers who care about missions and can give. It’s strategic and biblical.
“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” - Colossians 3:23
This Is About More Than Money
Support raising isn’t just about income. It’s about obedience. It’s about stretching your faith and building a team that reflects God’s heart and provision.
You’ll grow through this. You’ll face rejection, but you’ll also see God move. Over time, you’ll become bolder, stronger, and more deeply connected to the One who called you.
You’ve Got This. We’re With You.
Everyone starts somewhere, and this is your starting line. Don’t be discouraged if it feels slow or messy. God is with you, and you have a team cheering you on.
Ready to begin?
Commit to building your list this week.
Set your timer. Make your calls.
And if you need help, reach out. We’d love to walk alongside you.
