Best Grants for Mentoring Programs in Texas

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

Texas cultural nonprofits offering arts, science, or arts education programs can access funding through William Randolph Hearst Foundation for program, capital, and limited general or endowment support. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations with audited expenses over $2 million, strong impact, and large constituencies may be competitive, especially those advancing arts education, artist development, or STEAM-focused science programs that engage youth and underserved communities.

Texas 501(c)(3) and equivalent charitable organizations working in health, education, or community programs can access funding through Labcorp Charitable Foundation to support services and initiatives. The foundation backs efforts such as food pantries, healthcare for underserved populations, STEM education, and healthy lifestyle programs, which may include mentoring or tutoring components for youth.

Organizations and social enterprises in Texas working on education or family economic stability for urban low-income children can apply for Michael & Susan Dell Foundation grants; awards are more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling. Eligible entities include nonprofits, schools, governments, and other mission-aligned organizations serving youth, including mentoring initiatives.

Texas 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving early childhood education or community economic development can seek funding for programs benefiting low- and moderate-income children, families, and neighborhoods. PNC Foundation provides support for early learning, mentoring or tutoring components, workforce development, affordable housing, small business support, arts, and broader community revitalization in communities where PNC has a significant presence.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Texas working on community development, basic needs, workforce education, arts, environment, or inclusion may be eligible for sponsorship support. Bank of America Charitable Foundation supports initiatives that preserve neighborhoods, address hunger and shelter, and strengthen local economic and cultural life, which can include mentoring-related programming.

Texas 501(c)(3) public charities serving high-achieving, lower-income youth can seek capacity-building grants up to US $25,000 to strengthen systems and operations. Focus areas include early literacy, out-of-school enrichment, charter schools, and college readiness, so mentoring and tutoring programs that fit these priorities may be eligible for support from the Webber Family Foundation.

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.

Assistant-level biomedical researchers at eligible Texas institutions can apply for the Voelcker Fund Young Investigator Award, offering up to US $450,000 over three years for innovative work on cancer, heart disease, arthritis, muscular dystrophy, or retinal diseases. Texas programs that include mentoring early-career investigators may benefit from this support.

501(c)(3) nonprofits or fiscally sponsored projects in Texas serving Dallas County with time-sensitive needs can apply for Byrne Family Foundation Trust’s Fast Track Grants, awarding up to US $10,000 for education or domestic animal welfare initiatives. Mentoring, youth empowerment, afterschool, and related equity-focused programs may be especially competitive.

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.

Texas 501(c)(3) public charities offering youth mentorship, workforce development, or creative arts programs for under-resourced children may be eligible for support, primarily near Colleyville and Nashville. The Graham and Carolyn Holloway Family Foundation funds U.S.-serving nonprofits, including general operating support, with an LOI due February 15 and full applications by March 15.

Nonprofit community development organizations in Texas working on housing, small business, or workforce development projects can partner with a graduate fellow through the NCRC Fellowship for Equitable Development. With a mission to advance a just economy, National Community Reinvestment Coalition provides member hosts with innovative talent and support, with priority given to several U.S. locations including Texas.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Oliver Foundation

The Oliver Foundation was founded by Mrs. William B. Oliver (Cluthe) in 1995 and official programs for the Prevention of Childhood Obesity began in 2004. The foundation is dedicated to the prevention of childhood obesity.

The Oliver Foundation is a Houston-based 501(c) (3) non-profit operating foundation dedicated to the prevention of childhood obesity. We provide funding of various levels and time frames to qualified grant recipients. The grants, by application, are based on the Oliver Foundation’s Seven Healthy Messages to promote a healthy lifestyle to kids and teens, referred to as “The Seven Healthy Choices!”

• Choose 5-A-Day servings of fruits and vegetables.
• Have more water and less sugary beverages.
• Opt for healthy snacks.
• Increase active play and decrease screen time.
• Choose 3-A-Day servings of low-fat dairy products.
• Enjoy a healthy breakfast.
• Serve a smart portion size.

Teen Advisory Board Grant

The goal of the Oliver Foundation is to encourage children, families and communities in Texas to improve the eating and physical activity patterns of Pre-school, Elementary, Middle School and High School students.

Teen Advisory Board Grants (TB) are available to middle and high school campuses that are interested in implementing a TB at their school. A Teen Advisory Board is a group of diverse students that have a passion for creating a sustainable healthy campus environment, be involved in community service events, and can mentor younger students.

Oliver Foundation Staff and TB will provide training and assist in the implementation of this grant. A school sponsor is required for this group and will complete the grant application.

Texas 501(c)(3) public charities running safety, workforce development, community vitality, or environmental sustainability programs can apply for Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $30,000 for direct services and capacity building. Youth development and mentoring initiatives in Union Pacific–served communities may be eligible if they align with these priority areas.

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 Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

Texas Academic Innovation and Mentoring (AIM) Grant

Program Description

The Academic Innovation and Mentoring (AIM) grant is designed to close the gaps in the student achievement among English language learners and minority and low-income students who are at risk of dropping out. The Texas AIM program is a partnership between Texas Alliance of Boys and Girls Clubs (BGC) and a supplemental academic learning center that is owned and operated in the United States to provide an after-school and summer AIM program statewide. Program goals include decreasing the dropout rate and discipline issues and improving academic achievement and attendance among participating at-risk students.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations focused on education, tutoring and mentoring, health, human services, environment, arts, or community development in Smith County, Texas can receive US $2,500 - US $10,000 in support. Altra Foundation’s Best Life Community Awards are based on member nominations of organizations they have personally supported in the past year.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

2026-2027 Academic Decathlon Grant

Program Description

The purpose of the Academic Decathlon grant is to provide financial support to the Texas Academic Decathlon Association in its efforts to sponsor and lead the Texas Academic Decathlon program. Through the Academic Decathlon program, students who are mentored by Academic Decathlon coaches take part in individual and team competitions designed to promote problem-solving strategies, research skills, critical and analytical thinking skills, communication skills, and teamwork skills. State and regional coordinators organize competitions that begin at the local level with the opportunity for winners to move on to compete at regional and national levels.

Nonprofits, schools, and government entities supporting women and girls with education, workforce skills, or small business development in Texas can apply for this program. Grants from Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Foundation help eligible communities expand mentoring, college and career readiness, leadership development, and financial capability initiatives that improve income, employment, and business outcomes for women and girls.

Public school systems and other eligible education entities in Texas can receive Texas Education Agency support for mentoring programs serving children of incarcerated parents and youth at risk of incarceration. This Amachi Texas grant funds consistent, supportive tutoring and mentoring relationships that build resilience, prevent intergenerational incarceration, and strengthen youth services statewide.

Nonprofit organizations, schools, universities, and qualifying government programs in Texas can seek US $5,000 - US $20,000 to support youth initiatives that benefit primarily Hispanic students through caring relationships, safe spaces, education, health, or service. Grants from The Long Foundation help Texas tutoring and mentoring programs serving Austin-area Hispanic youth advance measurable educational and life outcomes.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

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.