Best Air Quality Grants 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 Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

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 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.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

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 PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Trees for Texans - Trees For Schools Grant, in partnership with Texan by Nature and H-E-B, aims to enhance community environments through native tree planting at schools near new H-E-B stores. This initiative not only helps cool urban areas and mitigate the urban heat island effect but also fosters educational opportunities and promotes mental well-being. By investing in sustainable practices, the program ensures long-term ecological benefits and engages the next generation in conservation efforts.

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.

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

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. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality strives to protect our state's public health and natural resources consistent with sustainable economic development. Our goal is clean air, clean water, and the safe management of waste.

All-Electric Program

Grants for repowering or replacing eligible vehicles and equipment with all-electric models, along with supporting infrastructure. A program of the Texas Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Program (TxVEMP).

Priority Areas: Dallas-Fort Worth Area; Houston-Galveston-Brazoria Area; San Antonio Area; Austin Area; El Paso County; Bell County; Beaumont-Port Arthur Area

Eligible Project Categories

To be eligible for a grant, an applicant must be replacing or repowering a vehicle or a piece of equipment from one of the categories listed below, and may request additional funding for refueling infrastructure.

• Class 8 Local Freight and Port Drayage Trucks
• Class 4-8 School Bus, Shuttle Bus, & Transit Buses
• Class 4-7 Local Freight Trucks
• Airport Ground Support Equipment
• Forklift and Port Cargo Handling Equipment
• Refueling Infrastructure
• Freight Switchers

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

This grants program is to implement a portion of the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan (TERP), established in Chapter 386, Subchapter C of the Texas Health and Safety Code. 

The TCEQ has also adopted rules to implement this program under 30 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter 114, Subchapter K. The TCEQ has adopted the Texas Emissions Reduction Plan: Guidelines for Emissions Reduction Incentive Grants, RG-388 (guidelines), which contain the more specific standards governing this program.

The goals of the TERP are to:

• assure that air in this state is safe to breathe and meets minimum federal standards established under the Federal Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. Section 7407); 
• develop multi-pollutant approaches to solving the state’s environmental problems;
• adequately fund research and development that will make the state a leader in new technologies that can solve the state’s environmental problems while creating new business and industry in the state. 

To implement the TERP, the ERIG Program will provide grants for eligible activities to offset the incremental costs of projects that reduce emissions of NOX from high-emitting internal combustion engines in eligible areas.

RIG Project Categories for Eligible Vehicles and Equipment

Projects eligible for funding under this program are intended to reduce NOx emissions in eligible counties. The TCEQ may more narrowly define or limit the types of project categories for a particular funding period.

The types of project categories eligible under the FY17 ERIG funding period include:

• New Purchase or Lease:
• To be eligible for funding, the engine on the new vehicle or piece of equipment must be certified to emit at least 25% less NOx than required under the current standard.
• Certified means approved by EPA, the CARB, or otherwise accepted by the TCEQ.
• Replacement:
• The replacement of an eligible vehicle or piece of equipment with a newer vehicle or piece of equipment.
• Repower:
• The replacement (repower) of an existing engine in an eligible vehicle or piece of equipment with a new, rebuilt, or remanufactured engine.
• The new engine must be certified to emit 25% less NOx than the engine being replaced.
• Certified means approved by the EPA, the CARB, or otherwise accepted by the TCEQ.
• Retrofit or Add-On of Emission-Reduction Technology:
• The retrofit or add-on of emission-reduction technology to an existing engine in an eligible vehicle or piece of equipment.
• Except for retrofits with certain dual-fuel conversion systems, the vehicle or equipment must be currently owned by the applicant and the retrofit or add-on systems must be certified or verified to emit at least 25% less NOx than the engine prior to the retrofit.

Other ERIG Project Categories

• On-Vehicle Electrification and Idle Reduction Infrastructure:
• The purchase and installation of equipment that enables a vehicle or equipment to use electric power to operate, while the vehicle or equipment is parked, the systems normally supplied power by the propulsion engine or another on-board internal combustion engine that emits NOx.
• On-Site Electrification and Idle Reduction Infrastructure
• Use of Qualifying Fuel
• Rail Relocation and Improvement:
• The relocation of rail lines to reduce the number of grade crossings, improvements at rail intersections, and other improvements that will directly result in the reduction of locomotive and/or vehicle engine idling at rail intersections.
• Eligible rail intersections may include the intersection of two rail lines or an intersection of a highway or roadway and a rail line, commonly referred to as a highway-rail grade crossing.
• The grant recipient must own or otherwise control the rail line, right-of-way, or the facility being improved.

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 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.

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 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 David C. J. Peters Scholarship, established by Southland Industries in honor of ASHRAE member David Peters, offers a one-year scholarship to qualified undergraduate students in mechanical or architectural engineering. Candidates must be enrolled full-time in a bachelor's program at designated institutions and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or be in the top 30% of their class. This initiative supports the mission of ASHRAE to promote sustainable practices in engineering.

The Region VIII Scholarship, offered by ASHRAE, is a one-year award for undergraduate pre-engineering or engineering students attending accredited institutions within Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, and Mexico. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0 or rank in the top 30% of their class. Scholarships support students pursuing degrees related to HVAC&R, fostering future leaders in sustainable built environments.

The Captain Mark Tyler Voss Memorial Scholarship, established by The Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, aims to support graduating seniors from Boerne High School and Boerne Samuel V. Champion High School. This scholarship honors Captain Mark Tyler Voss, a dedicated Air Force pilot and 2004 graduate who tragically lost his life in Afghanistan. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, a commitment to extracurricular activities, and strong leadership qualities.

The Laine - Casey Laine Armed Services Scholarship, established to honor Lieutenant Casey Laine Swakon, supports students from the Coastal Bend area who have participated in JROTC or are part of ROTC programs. Eligible candidates include high school seniors, current college students, and veterans. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 and complete at least 12 credit hours per semester, ensuring they are well-prepared for their academic pursuits.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Trees for Texans - Trees For Communities Grant, in partnership with Texan by Nature and H-E-B, fosters community engagement through tree-planting initiatives across Texas. By offering $5,000 grants to eligible nonprofits and municipalities, this program aims to enhance urban environments, promote sustainability, and improve public spaces. Projects must be publicly accessible and demonstrate a measurable impact on local ecology, ensuring a greener future for generations to come. Together, we can cultivate healthier communities and environments.

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.

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.