About SIL

SIL is a global, faith-based nonprofit that works with local communities around the world to develop language solutions that expand possibilities for a better life. 

 

 

Our Impact

SIL's core contribution areas are Bible translation, literacy, education, development, linguistic research and language tools. As of 2024, we are involved in approximately 1,530 active language projects in 107 countries. These projects impact more than 950+ million people. SIL’s work brings together more than 4,373 staff from 86 countries who work alongside thousands more local partners and community volunteers worldwide. Our services are available without regard to religious belief, political ideology, gender, race or ethnic background.

 

Our Vision

We long to see people flourishing in community using the languages they value most.

Our Mission

Inspired by God’s love, we advocate, build capacity, and work with local communities to apply language expertise that advances meaningful development, education, and engagement with Scripture.

 

Our "Why?"

Our faith inspires and informs our commitment to expand possibilities for people to thrive. We believe all people are created by God and given language as a means for flourishing. Through language, we understand who we are, experience relationships and explore life’s most important questions.

As followers of Jesus, we believe:

  • All people are important. That’s why we care about all languages.
  • Relationship with God is precious. That’s why we pray, love the Bible and support its translation so others can have the same opportunities to know God better.
  • All aspects of a person’s life matter. That’s why we work toward language solutions that advance learning, health, justice, reconciliation and spiritual growth.