Search Through Education Grants in Austin, Texas in the U.S.

Background

Our Community Investment Program contributes to nonprofit organizations that operate within the immediate H-E-B service area. Depending on the need we may contribute in-kind product, volunteers, or monetary funding towards activities, projects, and causes that make a visible and possible difference. Our Community Investment Program primarily supports organizations focused on arts and humanities, disaster relief, diversity and inclusion, education and literacy, environmental and sustainability, health and wellness, hunger relief, military and veteran support, and general social services.

Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

The H-E-B Tournament of Champions was established in 1986 when DeckerFood Company asked H-E-B Grocery Co. to invite a few of their market vendors to play in a golf tournament and donate the proceeds to Special OlympicsTexas. The President of Decker Foods was the Chairman of the Board for Special Olympics Texas at that time. The event raised $38,500 and the proceeds made it possible to hire a Special OlympicsTexas Games Coordinator for Area 20 which included San Antonio. Chuck Hendryx(H-E-B V.P.) and Kathy Ashwin (Admin Asst.) organized the event in six weeks and concluded, if they had a year to plan the event, more money would be raised. The following year the event raised $78,000 and the rest is history!

Over the past 37 years, this event has raised over $145 million dollars benefiting Special OlympicsTexas and other worthwhile organizations that focus on children and educational initiatives throughout the State of Texas.

In 2003, the H-E-B Tournament of Champions Charitable Trust was established and the event became a 501(c)3 tax exempt private foundation under the Internal Revenue codes.

All Over Texas We are Here to Help

The Moody Foundation strengthens the future of Texas by investing in charitable projects that exhibit innovative ideas and make long-term improvement in our communities. Learn more about our grantees and the amazing work they are doing.

What We Fund

• Arts, Humanities, Religion
• Community and Social
• Education
• Health
• Science

The Moody Foundation proudly supports organizations of all sizes—from large-scale institutions and universities to small community-based groups. In short, the Foundation aims to support organizations who are dedicated to making a deep and sustained impact in their communities. While the Foundation prefers to make grants for specific programs or projects, the Foundation will consider most types of funding requests (including general operating, program, and capital).

The Foundation is currently focusing on grants that are in line with the following key areas of giving: education, social services and family well-being, health and wellness, and the arts. However, the Foundation maintains broad flexibility in grantmaking, both geographically and categorically within Texas, which allows timely responses to community needs and concerns.

Our Vision

We envision healthy lands, waters, native plants and animals supported with vibrant, thriving ecosystems throughout our beautiful state.

We believe great things happen when organizations and funders work together for the highest good.

We are a donor-advised fund comprised of a fund director, advisory committee, and fund administrator. Established in 2017 by G.P. “Buzz” Avery, in partnership with the Austin Community Foundation, we support nonprofit organizations whose primary mission is preserving natural habitats, especially those that are critically threatened.

The Environmental Fund of Texas: Tier 4 - Multi-year Grants

Grants from Tiers 2 and 3 may extend up to 3-year commitments pending annual evaluation and reporting compliance. Please designate upon applying that your grant request is for Tier 4 funding no matter which Tier each years funding will fall within (2 or 3).

Funding priorities​:

• Water:​
  • We support programs aimed at protecting natural water sources, including rivers, streams, lakes, aquifers, and springs, as well as their supporting watersheds.
    • Examples of programs include:
      • Strategic and effective preservation of land and native habitats along key waterways
      • Removal of invasive aquatic species from freshwater systems
• Natural areas:​
  • We support the protection and stewardship of ecologically-functional natural areas.
    • Examples of programs include:
      • Protection and restoration of imperiled and native ecosystems and habitats
      • Removal or reduction of invasive, non-native species posing threats or harm to natural communities in conjunction with replanting of native species and continued management
      • Enhanced monitoring and enforcement of existing natural areas
      • Collaboration with local landowners and communities to develop compatible use plans and a common vision for natural and cultural landscapes
• Native wildlife:​
  • We support programs which focus on protecting and sustaining native wildlife.
    • Examples of programs include:
      • Implementation of direct actions to help at-risk species and their habitats in Texas (e.g.habitat restoration, threat removal, communications for behavior change or actions needed).
      • Strategic engagement of local communities/audiences in the conservation of threatened and endangered species in Texas.
      • Technical guidance and resource projects for local landowners to conserve at-risk wildlife.
      • Monitoring of threatened or imperiled wildlife species for the purpose of land use planning that facilitates improved habitat quality/connectivity and that demonstrate a direct link to conservation action.Environmental education and awareness:​
• • The Fund supports projects that raise public awareness of environmental issues, inform and engage citizens, and build a future generation of environmental activists.
  • Special attention is given to projects that provide, encourage and support interactive and hands-on experiences out in nature.
• Public Engagement
• We support projects that forge connections with nature and increase public action for the environment.
• Examples of previously approved projects: 
• Projects that engage volunteers and communities in on-the-ground action for wildlife and habitat.
• Engaging students/community partners in the creation of pocket prairies/native gardens used in hands-on learning.
• Field trip to a local natural area to learn about native wildlife and ecology and participate in a stewardship project (e.g. planting trees or wildlife flower seed).
• Projects that engage local educators on local conservation issues and provide resources and training for how to incorporate in learning settings.
• Community events that engages local families in a day of wildlife watching or citizen science and includes opportunities to learn how they can help local wildlife.

Topfer Family Foundation Grant

The Topfer Family Foundation is committed to helping people connect to the tools and resources needed to build self-sufficient and fulfilling lives.

Program Areas

The mission of the Topfer Family Foundation (TFF) is to fund programs and organizations that connect people to the tools and resources they need to build self-sufficient and fulfilling lives. Programs eligible for TFF funding will adhere to the guidelines listed below and address one or more of the following program areas:

Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment 

Self-sufficiency for children and families begins in a safe, healthy home. TFF supports programs that provide resources, training and treatment for families and children of abuse. Grants are awarded to programs that promote positive parenting, strengthen families, and provide early intervention. Additionally, TFF funds therapeutic support services for victims of abuse to enhance their quality of life and enable them to reach their full potential.

Youth Enrichment 

TFF is committed to helping at-risk youth prepare for self-sufficient, fulfilling lives. Therefore, the foundation funds initiatives that help youth develop practical life skills, promote education, build self-confidence, and provide positive development and enrichment opportunities.

Job Training and Support Services

Self-sufficiency is unlikely without the skills and knowledge to earn a livable wage. Therefore, the foundation supports job training programs and support services that enable people to increase their earning potential and enhance their quality of life through sustainable and meaningful employment. Initiatives eligible for TFF funding include vocational training, remedial education and life skills training. Successful programs will address the multiple needs of the individual to ensure that employment is secured and sustained.

Children's Health

For parents who have faced the expensive and overwhelming task of caring for an ill child, self-sufficiency can be a distant dream. TFF supports organizations that provide access to critical healthcare for low-income children and those with chronic and terminal illnesses. Grants are awarded to programs that address the physical and emotional needs of sick children and their families through compassionate care, medical treatment and intervention services.

Aging in Place

Aging does not lead to an inevitable loss of independence. However, limited access to safe, affordable housing can be a barrier. TFF partners with local organizations that provide housing options for the elderly while ensuring access to the support services needed to maintain their health and independence. Eligible programs include those that offer home modification, home repair, food and nutrition services, and affordable housing alternatives.

Application Process

The Topfer Family Foundation accepts applications year-round and reviews them on a quarterly basis. Please see below for information about how to apply. Due to the volume of requests received each year, we cannot accept requests in the form of letters, proposals or presentations.

Guidelines for Capacity Building Grants

The Webber Family Foundation funds capacity building projects that:

• Are aligned with the Foundation’s mission and one of the four focus areas.
• Build the organization’s capacity to provide expanded, higher quality, and/or more sustainable services.
• Benefit predominantly low-income youth. This means at least 50% of the population served by the organization comes from families earning less than the median US family income, adjusted for family size.
• Benefit predominantly high-achieving youth. This means the focus of the organization or program is to help students who already exceed grade-level expectations develop their full potential. Accordingly, at least 2/3 of the population served exceeds grade-level expectations and/or exhibits superior aptitude.
• Operate in Austin TX.

Currently the Webber Family Foundation is not accepting unsolicited grant proposals from organizations located in and around Washington DC.

Grant Info

The Webber Family Foundation offers grants to organizations that are aligned with its mission of helping lower-income youth perform at the highest levels of achievement in academics and the arts. Currently there are three areas of focus:

• School readiness/early literacy
• Out-of-school time programs for grades 6-12
• Charter schools
• College readiness, access & persistence

Each is discussed below in more detail. The report: Achievement Trap: How America is Failing Millions of High-Achieving Students from Lower-Income Families published by the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation in September 2007 may be useful in better understanding the Foundation’s areas of focus.

School readiness/early literacy for age 3 - grade 3

The objective of this initiative is to increase the number of lower-income students who enter Kindergarten as high-achievers (at or above grade-level norms) and achieve reading proficiency by third grade.

Grants will fund quality preschool programs that provide structured, school- or center-based education for children ages 3-5, with a focus on early literacy and parent engagement. Grants will also fund early literacy programs – for students in Kinder to 3rd grades – working to decrease the post-PreK fadeout that can occur once children enter the public school system.

Out-of-school time enrichment for grades 4-12

The objectives of this initiative are to increase the number of lower-income students who:

• Develop academic and artistic skill during out-of-school time enrichment.
  • We define enrichment as activities that extend learning beyond the content/expectations of the school curriculum.
• Enrichment could be academic (robotics clubs, book clubs, summer space camp, etc.) or in the arts (music lessons, screenwriting workshop, dance program, etc.).
  • Not included are remedial programs to help struggling students achieve grade-level expectations.

Grants will fund long-term, intensive programs that serve lower-income students in grades 4-12 who are exceeding grade-level norms. Specific interests include:

• Enrichment programs that help students fulfill their potential through academics and/or the arts. This initiative does not include development of leadership and/or social skills, mentoring (except in the context of academics or the arts), nor remedial programs to help struggling students achieve grade-level expectations. In the arts, grants will fund programs that allow students to study music, dance, visual arts, and/or theater in depth. Artistic skill development – not exposure – is the goal.

The objective of this initiative is to expand the capacity of outstanding charter schools that serve predominantly lower-income students. Grants will fund schools serving grades 4-12 that produce exceptionally well-prepared graduates.

Charter Schools for grades PreK - 12

The objective of this initiative is to expand the capacity of high performing charter schools that serve predominantly lower-income students.

Grants will fund schools serving grades PreK-12 that produce well-prepared graduates.

College Readiness, Access & Persistence for grades 6-12+

The objective of this initiative is to increase the number of exceptionally well-prepared graduates who enroll in and succeed in college.

Grants will fund college preparation and access programs serving middle and high school students. Grants will also support college persistence initiatives for organizations working in the 6-12 space.

Grant Sizes

Capacity Building Grants are one-year grants that allow an organization to improve its systems and/or operations in order to work better and more efficiently. Capacity building grants can benefit both direct-service organizations as well as backbone organizations leading systemic work in one or more of the Foundation’s current focus areas. Grant request amounts range up to $25,000 per year.

Long Foundation Grant

In 2002, The Long Foundation made a commitment to benefit Texas Hispanic youths by furthering the Five Promises of America’s Promise. The Foundation’s goal is to reduce the high school dropout rate among Texas Hispanic students and to provide additional opportunities for these youths to improve their economic and social potential and that of their communities. We seek to benefit Texas Hispanic youths by making annual grants to non-profit organizations, schools and universities, and governmental and quazi-governmental programs that are addressing these goals. Selected programs and/or organizations must be located in areas, or targeted at groups, with large Hispanic populations and must support the youths, or groups, of those areas by fulfilling at least one of the Five Promises, which include:

• Promoting ongoing relationships with caring adults – parents, mentors, teachers, tutors and coaches.
• Providing safe places with structured activities during non-school hours.
• Promoting healthy start and future.
• Providing marketable skills through effective education.
• Providing opportunities to give back through community service.

Please note that while the program must be directed at Texas youth, "youth" is not limited to minors (those under 18 years of age). The Long Foundation recognizes that the achievement of obtaining marketable skills does not necessarily end when a person reaches the age of 18. Youths may include people seeking to advance their education while in their 20’s. Additionally, children may benefit from programs that benefit others, such as parents, and/or guardians.

It is also important to note that this program is not necessarily limited to benefiting only Hispanic youths. While the primary purpose of this program is to help Hispanic youths, grants made to such qualifying programs can be used to benefit everyone participating in those programs. However, at least, 75% of the youth "population" targeted by the initiative must be Hispanic. The youths targeted or involved in a particular program define the "population" of that program. Consequently, the population depends upon the program itself and its specific goal. Specific areas of a program (such as a specific school, branch, zip code, etc.) may be used to qualify for funding for that particular component or portion of the program.

Who We Are

Impact Austin is an Austin-based women’s collective giving organization, funding Central Texas nonprofits that provide services in Bastrop, Hays, Travis, and Williamson counties.

Focus Areas

Impact Austin will award grants in the following categories:

• Community
• Education
• Equity
• Health & Well-Being

Mission

Our mission is to meet basic human needs while building individual and social resiliency. 

Established in 1987, the Bernard & Audre Rapoport Foundation has dedicated over $70 million in grants to improve the social fabric of life.  

The Foundation seeks innovative solutions to intractable and persistent problems and strives to cultivate emerging talents and promising models. 

The entire Rapoport family is actively involved in the Foundation’s operations, which has touched many lives in the areas of education, arts and culture, health, community building & social services, and democracy & civic participation.

This commitment is rooted in generations past and continues to mold our future.

Areas of Funding Priorities

The Foundation prefers to concentrate on five primary areas including: Arts & Culture, Community Building & Social Service, Democracy & Civic Participation, Education, and Health.

Arts and Culture

The Foundation supports artistic and cultural programs that encourage the participation of children and disadvantaged members of the community thereby enriching their lives. Education and cultivation of new and young patrons is encouraged.

Education

The Foundation is interested in the broad area of education but with a special concern for early learning up to and through the elementary years. Other areas of interest include adult education and training initiatives, college and career readiness, and programs that enhance the capabilities of teachers and other professionals in public schools.  

Health

The Foundation seeks to improve the quality and delivery of healthcare services to all citizens, especially to women, children, and those who do not have access to conventional medical resources. Community-based outreach initiatives are also of interest to the Foundation.

Community Building and Social Services

The Foundation seeks to build communities that improve the quality of life for all citizens and foster the growth and development of children. The Foundation encourages programs that build grassroots neighborhood networks, provide job training and job opportunities for the unemployed and under-employed, or provide a comprehensive safety net of social services for the least-advantaged citizens.  

Democracy and Civic Participation

The Foundation supports efforts both to make government more responsive and to encourage citizens to take an active interest and role in political life. The Foundation promotes intergovernmental cooperation as well as initiatives that broaden citizen awareness of public policy issues and alternatives, build skills necessary for political leadership, and provide opportunities for community service.  

Where We Fund

By policy, one-third of annual grant funds are required to be distributed for projects/programs located in Waco, Texas. (The bulk of awards in Waco tend to fall within the areas of Education, Health, Community Building & Social Services, and Arts & Culture.)

By policy, one-third of annual grant funds are considered discretionary and may be distributed in support of projects/programs throughout Texas and the United States as desired. In recent years, a significant portion of the Foundation’s discretionary grant budget has been largely focused on ad-hoc special interest areas as determined by our trustees. Once the Foundation’s 2025 ad-hoc working group topic has been announced, you will find the relevant information on this website. (The bulk of awards in TX/US tend to fall largely within Democracy & Civic Participation and to a lesser extent, Community Building.)

It is also worth noting that the Foundation does not typically consider funding direct service programs outside of the Waco/McLennan County area or programs benefitting a small geographic area or a narrow audience (outside of Waco/McLennan County). (For more information, please review our FAQ page before submitting an LOI.)

Finally, the remaining one-third of annual grant funds are obligated to the University of Texas at Austin Rapoport Service Scholarship program, the Jerusalem Foundation, and the Jewish Federations of North America.

Mission

Adlai McMillan "A.M." or "Aggie" Pate Jr. and his wife, Joyce Pate Capper, were prominent philanthropists and active in historical preservation and civic endeavors in Fort Worth and the State of Texas. Mr. Pate actively supported higher education and served as a trustee at Austin College and Texas Christian University. Pate also served on the board of YMCA, was active in Girls' Service League, the Fort Worth Zoological Foundation, and the Fort Worth Children's Museum - now the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. He served as President and Chairman of the Board of Texas Refinery Co., a company founded by his father, until his death.

The foundation supports charitable organizations within the state of Texas that are organized and operated exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, literary, artistic, educational purposes, or for the prevention of cruelty to animals.

Funding

The average grant award for a grant cycle is $10,000 - $15,000.

Lola Wright Foundation Grant

Established by Miss Johnie Elizabeth Wright in 1954, the Lola Wright Foundation supports children and youth, public health and human services, education and community development, and arts and culture.

The Foundation’s grant making activities are limited to organizations operating primarily within a 50-mile radius of Austin, Texas.

Fields of Interest:

• Children and Youth
• Public Health and Human Services
• Education and Community Development
• Arts and Culture

Forever Austin Fund

About this grant opportunity

The Forever Austin Fund is a permanent community resource that enables ACF to invest in Austin’s most pressing needs and greatest opportunities. The Forever Austin Fund supports the giving of a collection of field-of-interest funds, unrestricted funds, and donor advised funds at the Foundation. The ACF team manages grantmaking from these funds, thoughtfully balancing the intent of each fund with the evolving needs of Central Texas.

Funding areas

Every year, ACF will make Forever Austin Fund grants to address both urgent and systemic needs in Central Texas. The issues prioritized in Forever Austin Fund grantmaking will shift over time to reflect the evolving needs of our region and the interests of our legacy donors. In 2025, the grants will focus on the following areas:

Economic Mobility: Ensuring paths to economic mobility for Central Texans is a critical strategy in ACF’s focus on closing the opportunity gap. By partnering with and funding organizations that tackle immediate and systemic economic challenges, we aim to eliminate wealth disparities and create lasting change. Grants in this category will focus on four key areas:

Health and Humanities: The future of our region is inextricably linked to the health of our people and the growth of our creative community. Grants in this category will focus on:

Nurturing Our Region: Preserving and protecting our rich ecosystem ensures generations of Central Texans can live and thrive. Grants in this category will focus on:

Funding amounts

Through the Forever Austin Fund grant cycle, we anticipate awarding 50-75 grants between $5,000 – $50,000 each. Award amounts will be determined by application scores, donor priorities, and individual endowment budgets. Grants may be approved for full or partial funding of the requested amount, which cannot exceed 30% of the organization’s budget.

Additional information per funding area:

• Economic Mobility: 20-30 grants, up to $1,250,000
• Health and Humanities: 15-20 grants up to $550,000
• Nurturing Our Region: 10-15 grants up to $200,000

Mission

Ms. Templeton was known to all as having a generous heart and a beautiful soul. She was passionate about helping others. She created the Joni Elaine Templeton Foundation to be operated exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, literary or education purposes or for the prevention of cruelty to children or animals.

Program Types:

• Animal-Related;
• Community Improvement & Capacity Building;
• Education;
• Human Services;
• Religion-Related

Pew Biomedical Scholars 

The Pew Scholars Program in the Biomedical Sciences provides funding to young investigators of outstanding promise in science relevant to the advancement of human health. The program makes grants to selected academic institutions to support the independent research of outstanding individuals who are in their first few years of their appointment at the assistant professor level.

Based on their performance during their education and training, candidates should demonstrate outstanding promise as contributors in science relevant to human health. Strong proposals will incorporate particularly creative and pioneering approaches to basic, translational, and applied biomedical research. Candidates whose work is based on biomedical principles but who bring in concepts and theories from more diverse fields are encouraged to apply.

Ideas with the potential to produce an unusually high impact are encouraged. Selection of the successful candidates will be based on a detailed description of the work that the applicant proposes to undertake, evaluations of the candidate’s performance, and notable past accomplishments, including honors, awards, and publications. In evaluating the candidates, the National Advisory Committee gives considerable weight to both the project proposal and the researcher, including evidence that the candidate is a successful independent investigator and has the skill set needed to carry out their high-impact proposal.

Funding from the NIH, other government sources, and project grants from nonprofit associations do not pose a conflict with the Pew scholars program.

Funding

The current grant level is $300,000.

An award of $75,000 per year for four years will be provided to the sponsoring institution for use by the scholar, subject to annual review of the scholar’s progress. Grant agreements will be issued in August of the award year. The awarded funds may be used at the discretion of the Pew scholar, for personnel, equipment, supplies, or travel directly related to the scholar's research and as to best advance his or her research and career.

• The amount of the award that may be used for the principal investigator’s salary is limited to $12,500 per year (including benefits) or $50,000 over the duration of the grant. There are no limits on student or postdoctoral salaries.
• Not more than 8 percent ($24,000) of the total award value may be allocated for facilities and administration (F&A) charges or indirect costs (IDCs).
• Should the funds not be immediately required, they may be accumulated and carried over through the grant period and, with written approval of the program office, the grant may receive a no-cost extension for one additional year (without additional funds).
• Subawards are allowed.

During the four-year grant term, program participants are required to attend an annual meeting held in March or April. All eligible expenses for attendees’ travel, lodging, and meals are paid by Pew. The meeting provides Pew scholars with an opportunity to present their research and for scientific collaboration and exchange with other scholars and members of the National Advisory Committee.

Trees for Texans

Texan by Nature is proud to partner with H-E-B to catalyze a statewide tree-planting program. Trees for Texans enriches the places we call home by planting trees that create healthier environments for schools, communities, and our future.

Our communities will Thrive

Trees help communities thrive by offering shade, reducing the urban heat island effect, and cooling urban areas. Trees also enhance our communities, providing educational opportunities and mental health benefits that enrich the quality of life of our communities.

Our environment will Thank Us

Trees play a crucial role in keeping our environment healthy. Trees help absorb carbon dioxide providing cleaner air. Trees help filter water, providing clean drinking water for communities. Trees and forests provide crucial habitats that help healthy populations of wildlife thrive.

Our Texas, Our Future

H-E-B Trees for Texans is a long-term investment in the future of all Texans. As trees grow and mature over time, their benefits extend through generations creating a legacy of sustainability and stewardship for future generations to enjoy.

For Communities Grant

We’re connecting communities to nature with opportunities for hands-on conservation. H-E-B supports communities by partnering with local non-profits to plant trees, engage volunteers, and celebrate the places we call home.

We invite non-profits, municipalities, and civic organizations to apply for a $5,000 grant for projects that increase tree canopy, reduce the heat island effect, increase available greenspace, and beautify public spaces in Texas. This application is open annually, and there are no restrictions regarding number of applications. Organizations are eligible to apply each cycle.

Funding is awarded annually for plantings occurring during the upcoming tree planting season.

Mission

Dr. William Evans Dean III (Bill) attended the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Nevada. He served his country in Vietnam as part of the U.S. Air Force and later graduated with honors from dental school. In addition to all these accomplishments, he was a registered Texas longhorn rancher, recreational pilot and avid animal lover. His passion for helping others continues in perpetuity through the establishment of the William E. Dean III Charitable Foundation, which he created in 2009.

Program Type

• Animal-Related;
• Education;
• Human Services;
• Religion-Related

Hispanic Impact Fund

Austin Community Foundation believes that when we support the economic mobility and advancement of Hispanic Central Texans, everyone benefits. The Hispanic Impact Fund – a signature program at Austin Community Foundation – works to bridge the racial wealth divide and advance economic opportunity for Latino families in Central Texas.

impact Areas

This grants cycle, the Hispanic Impact Fund will be awarding funding to organizations and programs that fit into one of the following strategy areas:

Early Childhood Education

• The Fund will invest in organizations that provide access to affordable, high-quality Pre-K and early childhood education starting at age 3, building the pipeline from cradle to career for Latino families.

Health & Wellness

• The Fund will invest in organizations that provide preventative, culturally competent health education and access to quality mental and physical health services.​

Job Skills & Entrepreneurship

• The Fund will invest in organizations that assist Latino entrepreneurs in gaining the knowledge and skills needed to expand their businesses.

Leadership Development

• The Fund will invest in organizations advancing Latino leadership and creating pipelines of youth, emerging, and established Latino talent, which are critical to building a thriving Central Texas.

While many community foundations across the country were created by several donors, Austin Community Foundation was created through the generosity of one woman. After her husband’s death in 1963, Fannie Gray Leo met with bank trustee George K. Meriwether, seeking his advice about how to provide for her family and favorite charities including the cancer center where Jack received care, as well as homes for orphans and for the elderly. Upon her death in 1975 it was discovered that Fannie Gray Leo had earmarked 5% of her estate, or $30,000, to create Austin Community Foundation (ACF). In 1977, two years later, Austin Community Foundation was established.

Today, ACF is your trusted partner in philanthropy in Central Texas. Our experienced team collaborates with community-minded individuals, families, and businesses to create greater impact, together. No matter how you want to give back, we help you turn your generosity into a force for good. As our mission, Austin Community Foundation mobilizes ideas and resources to strengthen Central Texas. Our work and leadership are focused on closing the opportunity gap through advancing economic mobility and housing affordability.

We work together with individuals, families, businesses, nonprofits, and civic leaders to address the greatest needs and opportunities in Central Texas. We primarily serve Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson Counties.

Austin Community Foundation invests in the economic mobility of Central Texans so our region can be a place where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. We carry out this work through two signature programs, the Hispanic Impact Fund and the Women’s Fund —collective-giving networks led by community members who share responsibility for the vision, fundraising, and grantmaking.

Women’s Fund Grant

The Women’s Fund at ACF began in 2004 as a collective giving network to tackle key issues affecting women and children, and has since grown into a powerful force for change—granting over $4 million to more than 100 nonprofits in Central Texas. From the “Power of the Purse” luncheon in 2005, to its 2016 strategic realignment, to its latest research report in 2023 and beyond, the Women’s Fund continues to evolve alongside our community with the guidance of its passionate Steering Committee. In addition to celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, the Women’s Fund awarded $500,000 to 15 organizations. 

The Women’s Fund awards funding to organizations and programs providing direct services and systems-level change in the following strategy areas:

• Housing: Supporting access to affordable housing for women that include a network of support and/or opportunities for long-term wealth building.
• Child Care: Expanding access to safe, quality, culturally competent and affordable child care that is conveniently located for families with low incomes.
• Education: Providing access to an ecosystem of support—academic, emotional, and financial—for women pursuing educational dreams.
• Unintended Pregnancy Prevention: Increasing access to consumable, unbiased pregnancy prevention resources.
• Women’s Health: Reducing health disparities experienced by women facing the greatest barriers to care.

In total, $550,000 in unrestricted, general operating support will be awarded to 15 different nonprofit organizations.

The Junior League of Austin is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

We strive to make a difference in the community by partnering with more than 30 nonprofit agencies and programs and giving financial support and more than 160,000 volunteer hours in our community. Through collaboration with agencies like you, we are able to help strengthen the Central Texas community. We appreciate your work within the community and hope that our volunteers and funds can help with your efforts.

PLTW Launch

John Deere Foundation has partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in John Deere home communities who historically have been underserved and underrepresented in STEM. This partnership is part of the John Deere Foundation's Bold Commitments to support 1 million underserved and underrepresented youth by 2030.

As part of their 10-year commitment, the John Deere Foundation is dedicated to ensuring inclusive and equitable student access to resources and educational opportunities critical for human dignity and self-sufficiency. 

PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges. Through this partnership, John Deere Foundation has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW Launch programs beginning in the 2025-2026 academic year.

PLTW Program Status:

Program Expansion

The Nolan Ryan Foundation works year-round to raise funds for its scholarship program. The program was recently elevated by establishing a scholarship endowment fund that awards scholarships of up to $40,000, renewable for up to four years. Currently, the Foundation partners with the Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation to provide scholarships to deserving local students.

The Nolan Ryan Foundation also awards the Willie Wells Memorial Scholarship every spring. Hall of Famer Willie Wells played for the Austin Black Senators, a Texas Negro League baseball team. In 2021, the Round Rock Express partnered with the Nolan Ryan Foundation to establish a scholarship in Wells' memory at Huston-Tillotson University in Austin.

50/50 Raffle Community Grant

The Round Rock Express and Nolan Ryan Foundation have joined forces to host a 50/50 Raffle at every home game. At the end of the year, the Nolan Ryan Foundation donates to several local nonprofit organizations in Central Texas through the 50/50 Raffle Community Grant Program.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Engineering - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2027-2028 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Engineering program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Engineering course not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Engineering courses previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Engineering courses for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting. 

About PLTW Grants

We work with companies and foundations across the U.S. to provide school grant opportunities to implement or expand PLTW programs. Over the last 10 years, PLTW with the support from these generous partners, has distributed over $75 million in school grants to more than 6,600 PreK-12 schools. Is your school considering adding a PLTW program or expanding an existing program but need support with initial expenses? You may be eligible for a PLTW school grant! 

PLTW Gateway

John Deere Foundation has partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in John Deere home communities who historically have been underserved and underrepresented in STEM. This partnership is part of the John Deere Foundation's Bold Commitments to support 1 million underserved and underrepresented youth by 2030. 

As part of their 10-year commitment, the John Deere Foundation is dedicated to ensuring inclusive and equitable student access to resources and educational opportunities critical for human dignity and self-sufficiency. 

PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges. Through this partnership, John Deere Foundation has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW Gateway programs beginning in the next academic year.

PLTW Program Status:

Program Expansion

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Gateway program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Gateway unit not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Gateway unit previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in a PLTW Gateway unit for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Launch - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Launch module in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional module for the 2027-2027 academic year (two different modules in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Launch modules of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Launch - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantees must use these grant funds to expand their program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Launch module not previously offered, and/or offering existing PLTW Launch modules to more students, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Launch Classroom Teacher Training or PLTW Launch Lead Teacher Training for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.