Practical Equipping for Real-World Missions
At the Upstream Collective, we know that missions leaders don’t just need inspiration—they want direction. That’s why our trainings are designed to be clear, actionable, and rooted in the real-world experiences of seasoned church and missions practitioners.
Here are three free sample trainings to get you started—each one a practical glimpse into the kind of equipping we offer church leaders like you.
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Developing a Sending Pipeline
Trainers: Mike Easton & Dave Childers
This interactive training gives your church a clear, practical strategy for identifying, equipping, and sending missionaries with purpose and care. You'll discover how to:
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Recognize and mobilize potential missionaries already in your church
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Equip future missionaries through intentional training
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Build a plan to send and support missionaries before, during, and after their time on the field
Leave with tools and clarity to move your church from good intentions to faithful, strategic sending.
Best Practices for Short-Term Teams
Trainer: Panel Discussion with Mission Pastors
In this fast-paced training, five seasoned missions leaders share their top five best practices for leading short-term teams—each in ten minutes or less. You'll get straight-to-the point wisdom from churches that have been there, done that, and refined their approach along the way.
Walk away with fresh insight and practical tips to help your church lead short-term trips with greater purpose and long-term impact.
Missions Leader Traits, Skills, and Qualities
Trainer: Nathan Sloan
What does it really take to lead global missions well in a local church? This video training explores the unique calling, core responsibilities, and daily joys of serving as a missions leader.
You'll gain insight into the character traits that sustain you, the practical skills that equip you, and the relational posture that keeps your leadership grounded in the life of the church.
Sending well starts with leading well. Whether you're new to the role or simply need a fresh shot of encouragement, this session will help you take some key steps in the right direction.
Sending Church Online Training
Accessible, practical training—right where you are.
Our online trainings are designed for busy church leaders and teams who want practical help without leaving their context. Whether live or on-demand, each session delivers real-world guidance to help you take the next faithful step in building a healthy sending culture. These sessions are ideal for staff, missions teams, or individuals looking to grow.
Sending Church In-Person Training
On-site equipping tailored to your church.
Bring an Upstream trainer to your church for a hands-on learning experience customized to your people, challenges, and goals. These in-person trainings are great for team retreats, leadership summits, or missions weekends—and they ensure your church hears consistent, gospel-centered teaching on sending from a seasoned guide.
Speaking Engagements
Inspiring vision and practical insight—delivered by trusted voices.
Invite one of Upstream’s leaders to speak at your church, event, or conference. Whether it’s casting vision for global missions, preaching on the theology of sending, or equipping leaders with practical tools, our speakers bring biblical clarity, missionary experience, and a pastoral heart.
Checkout these New Releases
If you're new to the Upstream site, check out these new releases.
If you're an Upstream member, access these trainings with your membership here.
You Lead the Church. We’ll Equip You to Send Well.
Whether you’re clarifying your sending vision or scaling your global strategy, Upstream offers the guidance, tools, and community to move forward with confidence.
Ready to take the next step in building a healthy sending church?
Become a member to access our full library of resources, trainings, discounts, and a community of like-minded church leaders.