A “responsible, long-term investment approach” has led to a better-than-forecast return for the Church of England’s endowment fund.

The fund, which is managed by the Church Commissioners for England, delivered an 8% return in 2025, marking the seventeenth consecutive year of positive returns.

The fund delivers long-term financial support for the Church's mission and ministry, contributing approximately a fifth of the total annual running costs of the Church of England. Last year, £202.8m from the fund went to supporting dioceses and local churches in England, and £52.9m for supporting bishops’ and archbishops’ ministry. 

Rosie Slater-Carr, interim Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are committed to providing long-term funding into the future for dioceses, cathedrals, bishops and much needed funding for one off areas, such as Net Zero Carbon and the National Redress Scheme. Our long-term view ensures that the Church continues to inspire the many generations to come.”

The First Church Estates Commissioner Alan Smith said the positive return was due to the skill and dedication of the investment team, who he said “deliver marker-beating returns, but do so while staying true to the Church of England’s values,” adding “It is thanks to that responsible, long-term investment approach that we can support the mission and ministry of the Church, year in year out.”

The Church of England said the fund last year also helped advance the Net Zero Carbon programme across church buildings and schools. It formed part of a charitable expenditure of £282.4m, which also included £17.8m for cathedrals. In addition, the Church Commissioners have provided funding to the National Redress Scheme and pre-1998 clergy pensions.