Frequently Asked Questions About the Google Ad Grant

Andrew Spikes • July 12, 2024

The Google Ad Grant is a fantastic opportunity for churches and nonprofits to leverage $10,000 in free Google Ads each month. However, navigating the specifics of this grant can sometimes be confusing. To help clear up any uncertainties, we've compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Google Ad Grant.

What is the Google Ad Grant?

The Google Ad Grant provides eligible nonprofits with $10,000 in monthly ad credits to spend on Google Ads. This is not actual money that you can use for other expenses like a new roof or a church van; instead, it's a credit applied to your Google Ads account to help increase your online visibility.

Common Questions and Answers

Is the Google Ad Grant actual money?

No, the Google Ad Grant is not money that you can spend on physical items or other church expenses. It is strictly ad credit that is applied to your Google Ads account each month. You can use these credits to run ads that promote your church's events, services, and other activities online.

Can you lose the Google Ad Grant?

Yes, it is possible to lose the Google Ad Grant. Compliance with Google's guidelines is crucial. One key requirement is maintaining a 5% click-through rate (CTR) on your ads. This means that out of every 100 impressions (times your ad is shown), at least five people need to click on it. Falling below this rate can result in losing the grant. Additionally, you need to avoid prohibited content like gambling or weapons and actively manage your ad campaigns to stay compliant.

Do the ad campaigns last only for a month?

No, your ad campaigns do not expire after a month. Once created, they will continue to run until you decide to pause or delete them. However, the effectiveness of ads can decrease over time, so it's essential to regularly update your ad content and strategy.

How do I avoid getting charged?

To ensure you don't get charged, do not add a payment method to your Google Ads account when using the Google Ad Grant. If prompted to do so, ignore the request. Adding a payment method will convert your grant account to a paid account, causing you to lose the benefits of the grant.

Can you spend more than $10,000 in a month?

While the grant is typically capped at $10,000 per month, there have been instances where ad spending slightly exceeded this amount without any additional charges. This seems to be a rare occurrence, but it indicates that slight overages may be covered by Google.

Best Practices for Managing Google Ad Grant

To make the most of your Google Ad Grant, follow these best practices:

  • Monitor Ad Performance Regularly: Check your Google Ads account frequently to ensure your campaigns are performing well and staying compliant with the 5% CTR requirement.
  • Refresh Ad Content: Ads can become less effective over time. Regularly update your headlines and ad copy to keep them engaging and relevant.
  • Create Multiple Ad Groups: Diversify your ad strategy by creating several ad groups targeting different keywords and demographics. This will help you determine what works best and optimize your ad spend.


Understanding the ins and outs of the Google Ad Grant can significantly enhance your church's online presence and outreach efforts. If you have more questions about the Google Ad Grant or need assistance with your ad campaigns, feel free to reach out to us at hello@faithworksmarketing.com or connect with Jono Long on social media @JonoLong. We're here to help you reach more people for Jesus in your community.

Jono Long

Digital Marketer for 10 years. Formerly a Youth Pastor for 21 years.

A man with a beard is sitting in a chair wearing a hat.

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