Technology does not have to be expensive. These seven free and low-cost digital tools are being used by thousands of churches to improve communication, streamline giving, and grow their congregation.
1. Google Workspace for Nonprofits
Google offers its Workspace suite (Gmail, Drive, Docs, Meet) completely free for qualifying nonprofits. This includes professional email addresses at your church domain, unlimited storage, and video conferencing for staff and ministry teams.
2. Mailchimp Free Plan
For churches with under 500 email subscribers, Mailchimp is completely free and allows you to send beautiful email newsletters, event announcements, and automated follow-up sequences to new visitors.
3. Canva for Nonprofits
Canva offers its premium plan free for registered nonprofits. Design Sunday bulletin covers, social media graphics, event flyers, and presentation slides with professional templates.
4. Planning Center Free Tier
Planning Center offers a free tier for small churches that includes volunteer scheduling, music planning, and basic people management — perfect for churches just starting to digitize their operations.
5. Google Forms
Free and unlimited, Google Forms handles visitor connection cards, prayer request collection, event registrations, and volunteer sign-ups. Responses flow directly into a Google Sheet.