Best Grants for Environmental Conservation in Texas

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The H-E-B Tournament of Champions Grant, established in 1986, supports organizations benefiting Special Olympics Texas and educational initiatives. Over 37 years, it has raised over $145 million, promoting health, arts, and social services in Texas. Eligible applicants must be valid 501(c)3 non-profits, focusing on specific areas like disaster relief and education, and located near H-E-B regions. This grant fosters community engagement and enhances the quality of life for many Texans.

The Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation supports impactful projects in Texas, focusing on environmental protection, social equity, and economic vitality. Their strategic grantmaking emphasizes clean energy, land conservation, subsurface energy, sustainability education, and water resources. The foundation seeks proposals that align with their mission and demonstrate a clear benefit to Texas. Projects funded must have a robust communication strategy to share outcomes effectively, ensuring lasting impacts on the communities served.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Sun Club Sustainability Grant, offered by Green Mountain Energy, empowers U.S.-based nonprofits to implement sustainability initiatives. Established in 2002, this grant supports diverse projects, including clean transportation, renewable energy, and resource conservation. Organizations must demonstrate three years of tax-exempt status and a commitment to community impact. Awards range from $50,000 to $400,000, focusing on measurable environmental, social, and financial benefits. Join us in fostering a greener future through innovative solutions and community engagement.

The Environmental Fund of Texas offers Tier 1 grants aimed at grassroots organizations and educational institutions for projects that promote conservation and environmental stewardship. Established in 2017, this fund focuses on initiatives that protect natural water sources, restore habitats, and sustain native wildlife. The fund seeks to collaborate with community volunteers and educators to create impactful, localized projects that contribute to the preservation of Texas's unique ecosystems.

The Environmental Fund of Texas offers Tier 2 grants aimed at projects that protect natural environments, focusing on water, natural areas, and native wildlife. The fund supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to preserving habitats and engaging the public in conservation efforts. By fostering partnerships and providing funding, the initiative aims to enhance biodiversity and promote sustainable practices across Texas. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in good standing, with a commitment to environmental protection and community involvement.

The Environmental Fund of Texas: Tier 3 - Scaling Up Impact invites organizations to collaborate with multiple stakeholders for impactful projects that protect natural resources. This funding initiative emphasizes teamwork to achieve greater outcomes than individual efforts. Priority areas include water conservation, natural area restoration, and native wildlife protection. Eligible applicants must have completed a Tier 2 grant and aim to preserve the natural environment in Texas. Grants support innovative projects, engaging classrooms in conservation efforts and fostering community involvement.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Powell Foundation Grant Program aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations in Texas, focusing on education, arts, conservation, and human services. They emphasize high-quality early childhood programs, K-12 education, post-secondary success, and community welfare. Eligible applicants must submit an online pre-application, with funding decisions announced in January and July. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster developmental support and educational access for children and families, enhancing community well-being through strategic investments.

The Jacob and Terese Hershey Foundation provides grants focused on environmental justice, reproductive rights, and community parks in Texas and southwestern Colorado. They accept letters of inquiry year-round, with cycles in Spring and Fall. Their funding supports diverse initiatives including project grants, operating grants, and capital grants, emphasizing investments that enhance the well-being of both people and nature, particularly in underserved communities.

The T.L.L. Temple Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in East Texas by addressing poverty through targeted grants in education, health, economic development, and community revitalization. With a focus on marginalized communities, the foundation aims to break the cycle of poverty by improving access to essential resources and opportunities. By investing in health care, educational programs, and economic initiatives, they strive to foster thriving communities and promote sustainable growth in the region.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The TX Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants, administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, provides funding to enhance outdoor recreational experiences across Texas. Since 1965, this program has supported communities in building parks, conserving resources, and developing trails. Grants cover up to 80% of project costs, with maximum awards of $300,000 for non-motorized and $500,000 for motorized projects. This initiative promotes environmental stewardship and fosters a connection to nature for all Texans.

The CenterPoint Energy Foundation aims to enhance community vitality through grants supporting affordable housing, environmental education, and workforce development. Focusing on low- to moderate-income populations, the Foundation prioritizes innovative programs that foster community connections and educational opportunities. By investing in both community vitality and education, they strive to create vibrant neighborhoods and empower individuals with the skills needed for success in today's workforce. Their commitment extends across Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas.

The River Oaks Garden Club, founded in 1927, is dedicated to enhancing the Houston community through conservation, horticulture, and civic beautification. The ROGC Civic Contribution Grant supports local projects, including the maintenance of public gardens and the establishment of the Bayou Bend Gardens Endowment. Educational initiatives like the annual environmental seminar and the publication of gardening resources further its mission. Priority is given to eligible requests from the Houston area, emphasizing a commitment to community engagement.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

About Us

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is the environmental agency for the state. We have approximately 2,800 employees, located in our central office in Austin and 16 regional offices around Texas.

Nonpoint Source Water Quality Grants

TCEQ and the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board (TSSWCB) nonpoint source (NPS) programs administer federal grants for activities that prevent or reduce nonpoint source pollution. The grants are made available through a federal program authorized under Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act. Funds are appropriated by Congress.

The grant will reimburse 60% of the cost of selected projects; applicants provide the other 40% of the cost as match, which may include in-kind services by volunteers or partner organizations.

Types of Projects Prioritized

You can find descriptions of past projects funded through the TCEQ’s Nonpoint Source Program on our Projects webpage. Agricultural and silvicultural projects addressing nonpoint source pollution are funded through the TSSWCB Section 319(h) Grant Program. The types of projects that are prioritized include those that:

• lead to water quality improvements
• develop and implement EPA-accepted watershed protection plans (WPPs).

Requirements Related to Stormwater Activities

Projects that implement Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements are not eligible for funding. However, projects within areas covered by MS4 permits might be eligible for assistance if the proposed management measures are not required or used for permit compliance. For example, low impact development practices and retrofits of storm water control structures on developed properties are outside the scope of most MS4 permits in Texas and thus are usually eligible for 319(h) funding.

Quality Assurance Requirements

All project-related water quality data must be acquired, collected, and analyzed in accordance with an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP). This includes all "environmental data operations" such as water quality sampling and analysis, flow measurement, acquisition or collection of rainfall data or geospatial data, and hydrologic or water quality modeling. QAPPs may take 3-6 months for final approval which must be obtained before any work specified in the QAPP can begin.

Funding for Septic Systems/On-Site Sewage Facilities

The TCEQ NPS grant program does not provide direct assistance to individual homeowners for septic systems. However, this grant program does fund projects managed by local entities, that provide septic system assistance and training on maintenance to homeowners. The Texas U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development offices , certain projects funded under TCEQ’s Supplemental Environmental Projects program, and other state and federal sources may offer technical and financial assistance with septic system repair and/or replacement in Texas. 

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Texas Nonpoint Source Management Grant Program aims to combat nonpoint source pollution as mandated by the Clean Water Act. This program addresses pollution from various diffuse sources, including agricultural runoff and urban runoff. Administered by the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, it undertakes comprehensive strategies to protect water quality and is refreshed every five years to adapt to new challenges.

The Texas Water Development Fund (DFund) offers state-funded loans for a variety of infrastructure projects, including water supply and flood control initiatives. Eligible applicants include political subdivisions and nonprofit water supply corporations. The program streamlines funding by allowing multiple project components to be included in one loan. As of FY 2020, approximately $2.7 billion has been committed, with applications requiring a pre-application conference to discuss eligibility and project details.

The T.J. and LaVerne Plunkett Foundation Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations that embody conservative Christian values and serve communities in East Texas, particularly Rusk County. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in arts, education, health, and more, ensuring services are accessible to all community members without discrimination. Applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and provide a detailed budget for their proposed projects.

The Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP) Grant, offered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, provides funding ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 to tax-exempt organizations. This initiative promotes outdoor recreation and environmental education for under-served populations, including low-income and minority groups. By fostering partnerships with local organizations, CO-OP aims to enhance accessibility to outdoor activities, ensuring that all Texans can enjoy and engage with nature responsibly.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.