The Unitarian Universalist Association established the President William G. Sinkford Fund in 2008, during the last year of Rev. Sinkford's first UUA Presidency (he served as Interim President in 2017). Having begun his service in June 2001, Rev. Sinkford left the Association with many profound and lasting gifts including the innovative Diversity of Ministry Initiative and support for lay theological education and ministerial development programs. To honor his legacy in the years to come, the Sinkford Fund will further Rev. Sinkford's visions by providing scholarships for promising and passionate students preparing for Unitarian Universalist ministry. Scholarships are designated for ministerial students who identify as Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC).

The Ministerial Credentialing Office has limited scholarship funds available to students enrolled full-time or at least half time in a Masters of Divinity degree program leading to fellowship as a Unitarian Universalist (UU) minister. Aspirant or Candidate status is required. Deadline for receipt of financial applications each year is on or around April 15th. Applicants for financial aid are automatically considered for scholarships and no additional material is required, except where noted.

In addition, priority is given those grantees that have demonstrated outstanding ministerial ability secondarily to students with the greatest financial need, especially those who hold historically marginalized identities. Grantees will be primarily citizens of the United States and Canada, and if they continue to excel in both academic and social performance may be eligible for additional scholarships.

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