Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The Arthur A. Seeligson Jr. Conservation Fund Grant, administered by the Fort Worth Zoo, aims to conserve native Texas wildlife through collaborative projects. With over $101,000 awarded to date, the fund focuses on supporting partnerships among scientists, educators, and landowners. In 2025, it seeks proposals that promote conservation, enhance biodiversity, and have a measurable impact, while keeping project costs at $5,000 or less. This initiative is vital for sustaining Texas's rich natural heritage.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) 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. TEA helps deliver education to more than 5 million students under the leadership of the commissioner of education. The TEA operational costs are supported by both state and federal funds.

The Texas Education Agency administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1

Program Description

The purpose of the 2026-2027 School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1 grant is to assist applicants with the implementation and execution of already planned whole-school actions which received a School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation (LASO 3) grant, and which will provide an opportunity for the applicant to create new and improved learning environments that sustainably increase student achievement, increase access to high-quality schools, meet community needs, and address chronic under-performance. 

The Shelton Family Foundation Grant supports IRS tax-exempt organizations in Abilene and the Big Country area. Established in 1996, the foundation honors the legacy of A.B. “Stormy” Shelton by funding projects in areas such as basic human services, education, health, and community development. Grant proposals are accepted year-round, with reviews conducted in February and August. This initiative aims to address local needs and foster community well-being.

The Manning Foundation Grant, established by William O. Manning in 1992, supports research aimed at preventing blindness and curing eye diseases, alongside initiatives for intellectual and developmental disabilities. With an annual funding of approximately $250,000, the Foundation primarily assists organizations in Texas that meet 501(c)(3) tax-exempt criteria. By advancing innovative concepts and technology, the Foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

Supporting Career Shifters

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has authorized the use of one million dollars ($1,000,000) in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds to develop career exploration initiatives serving participants who want to shift careers to a Targeted or High Demand Occupation.

Eligible Applicants under this Application are the Texas Local Workforce Development Boards. Applicants, that are not a Texas Local Workforce Development Board will be disqualified and will not be evaluated.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The Fence Authority Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fields that enhance community beautification, such as architecture, civil engineering, and environmental sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and involved in community service. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute positively to society while furthering their education in impactful disciplines.

The Patrick and Beatrice Haggerty Foundation Grant aims to enhance lives through charitable, medical, educational, religious, and literary support. Established in 1983, the Foundation has invested over $19 million in Texas institutions. To be eligible, organizations must be tax-exempt under 501(c)(3). Preference is given to Dallas County programs, while grants are not available to individuals or non-U.S. organizations. The Foundation's mission focuses on serving others and fostering community engagement.

Reliant Gives is dedicated to empowering Texas communities by supporting organizations invested in education, health, and well-being. With deep roots in Texas, Reliant Energy emphasizes the importance of giving back, encouraging local organizations to apply for grants that foster positive change. Their commitment reflects a holistic approach to community improvement, aiming to enhance the quality of life for all Texans. If your organization shares this passion, consider applying for funding to further your impact.

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.

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. 

IDEA-D funds- Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The purpose of IDEA-D funds is to provide technical assistance and dissemination to improve services and results for children who are deafblind. The purpose of this program is to promote academic achievement and improve results for children with disabilities by providing technical assistance and model demonstration projects, disseminating useful information, and implementing activities that are supported by scientifically based research. IDEA includes provisions designed to ensure that each child with a disability is provided a high-quality individual program of services to meet his or her developmental and educational needs. For children who are deafblind to receive such services, intensive technical assistance is made available to the school system, parents, and professionals (IDEA-D, Section 663; CFDA 84.326T).

TEA is awarded funds through a five-year competitive grant program titled Technical Assistance to State Deafblind Projects, administered by the USDE, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP). This project is administered by TEA through the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (TSBVI).

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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title I, Part C 

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The purpose of the Title I, Part C -Texas Migratory Education Program (TXMEP) is to do all of the following [ESSA Title I, Part C, Section 1301 (1)– (5)]:

• Assist the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in supporting high-quality and comprehensive educational programs and services during the school year and, as applicable, during summer or intersession periods, that address the unique educational needs of migratory children.
• Ensure that migratory children who move among the states are not penalized in any manner by disparities among the states in curriculum, graduation requirements, and challenging state academic standards.
• Ensure that migratory children receive full and appropriate opportunities to meet the same challenging state academic standards that all children are expected to meet.
• To help migratory children overcome educational disruption, cultural and language barriers, social isolation, various health-related problems, and other factors that inhibit the ability of such children to succeed in school.
• To help migratory children benefit from state and local systemic reforms

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. 

Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) Planning and Expansion Grant

Program Description

The Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program is designed to expand rural students’ access to high-quality college and career pathways through structured, multi-district partnerships. The program supports regional collaboration among eligible school systems, coordinating entities, and postsecondary or workforce partners to design, implement, and sustain aligned pathways that respond to regional needs and support successful student transitions beyond high school and to promote long-term capacity, accountability, and outcomes.

The Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) funding uses a tiered approach: Tier 1 - Planning Grants and Tier 2 - Expansion Grants.

Tier 2 - Expansion Grants

Tier 2 applications will consist of Expansion Grants and will be considered for award after Tier 1 awards have been made.

Eligible applicants are Coordinating Entities of current R-PEPs in good standing.

Deliverable 1: Expansion Rationale, Evidence of Success, and Governance

Grantees will develop a comprehensive set of planning artifacts that demonstrate strong alignment between regional workforce demand and the proposed R-PEP expansion design. 

Deliverable 2: Fiscal, Staffing, Implementation Capacity and Technical Assistance

Grantees will submit a complete and accurate R-PEP Expansion Application with sufficient evidence and attachments to demonstrate readiness for expansion.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title III, Part A ELA

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

Title III, Part A, provides supplemental resources to school systems to help ensure that children who are English learners (EL)/emergent bilingual (EB) students, including immigrant students, attain English proficiency at high levels in academic subjects and can meet the same challenging State academic standards that all children are expected to meet.

Intended beneficiaries are English learners, including immigrant children and youth. 

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 Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

Interactive Online Learning Grant, Cycle 3

Program Description

The purpose of this grant is to support the implementation of effective interactive online learning models in middle school and high school instruction in United States History, Texas History, and English Language Arts.

2026-2027 RLA Blended Pilot Grant

Program Description

The project is funded to establish an eligible vendor list of digital Tier 1 augmentation tool(s) aligned to the Texas Bluebonnet RLA curriculum for grades K through 5 for effective statewide administration of all components. This will ensure that all digital instructional tools meet TEA’s standards for alignment with the Bluebonnet RLA curriculum, demonstrate evidence of effectiveness, and adhere to data security and instructional quality requirements.

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The 2026–2027 RLA Blended Pilot Grant Program is designed for Texas public school systems to pilot implementing a digital Tier 1 augmentation tool(s) aligned to the Bluebonnet Learning Reading Language Arts curriculum, for some, if not all, grades Kindergarten through Grade 5.

Participating school systems will receive tailored support from one or more digital Tier 1 augmentation tools who have expertise in the digital augmentation of High-Quality Instructional Materials (HQIM), including teacher professional development and implementation coaching, to maximize instructional impact for students. This program aligns with the state’s support for Innovative Programs that advance educator development and improve student achievement outcomes through initiatives with a proven and demonstrable track record of success at the student, campus, and district levels.

The goal of the 2026–2027 RLA Blended Pilot Grant Program is to strengthen the quality and effectiveness of Tier 1 reading instruction in participating districts through the implementation of the Bluebonnet Learning K-5 Reading Language Arts, supported by a research based digital Tier 1 augmentation tool that will:

• Improve teacher capacity to make timely, data informed instructional decisions
• Support equitable access to grade level TEKS-aligned content for all learners
• Enhance student engagement and ownership of learning
• Reinforce the structure, rigor, and instructional design of Tier 1 instruction by integrating and
• ingesting core components of the Bluebonnet Learning K-5 Reading Language Arts curriculum
• Build district and campus readiness for sustainable, high-quality blended learning models

This goal reflects TEA’s commitment to ensuring that all students experience rigorous, high-quality reading instruction aligned to the TEKS and supported by tools that accelerate learning and deepen comprehension. 

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. 

Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) Planning and Expansion Grant

Program Description

The Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) program is designed to expand rural students’ access to high-quality college and career pathways through structured, multi-district partnerships. The program supports regional collaboration among eligible school systems, coordinating entities, and postsecondary or workforce partners to design, implement, and sustain aligned pathways that respond to regional needs and support successful student transitions beyond high school and to promote long-term capacity, accountability, and outcomes.

The Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) funding uses a tiered approach: Tier 1 - Planning Grants and Tier 2 - Expansion Grants.

Tier 1 - Planning Grants

Tier 1 applications will consist of Planning Grants and will be funded first, subject to the availability of funds. 

Deliverable 1: Labor Market Alignment & Program Design

Grantees will produce a comprehensive set of planning artifacts demonstrating strong alignment between regional workforce demand and proposed R-PEP program design.

Deliverable 2: Operational Readiness and Organizational Capacity

Grantees will demonstrate readiness to launch an R-PEP through defined organizational structures and operational planning.

Deliverable 3: Application, Budget, Governance, and Technical Assistance

Grantees will submit a complete and accurate New R‑PEP application, including sufficient documentation and attachments to demonstrate readiness for future designation.

The Natural Gas Society of East Texas Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports undergraduate and graduate students majoring in energy-related fields such as engineering or geosciences. Applicants must be Texas college students, sophomores or higher, with a minimum GPA of 2.75. Financial need is considered, and preference is given to those who attended high school in East Texas. This scholarship is a valuable opportunity for aspiring professionals in the energy industry.

The Chamiza Foundation Grant supports the preservation and revitalization of Pueblo culture through targeted grantmaking. For over 33 years, the foundation has enabled positive change in Pueblo communities by prioritizing language preservation, sustainable agriculture, traditional arts, and youth leadership. With an emphasis on collaboration and community involvement, the foundation awards grants averaging between $3,000 and $15,000 to projects that foster cultural continuity and innovation.

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. 

School Bus Safety Grant Program

Program Description

The purpose of this grant program is to assist school systems with retrofitting school buses with three-point seat belts. The seat belts should comply with the safety standards established by the Department of Public Safety in accordance with Texas Education Code, Section 34.002, Texas Administrative Code, Title 37, Chapter 14, and any other applicable laws. 

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 JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Adeline & George McQueen Foundation Grant supports charitable, educational, religious, and hospital organizations in Texas. It primarily funds nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code. The foundation emphasizes its commitment to enhancing community welfare through various program areas including education, religious initiatives, scientific research, and the arts. Note that individuals are not eligible to apply for this grant.

The Behmann Brothers Foundation, established in October 1979, focuses on supporting agricultural research, education, youth groups, healthcare, and service organizations. Grants are available for non-profit organizations recognized as public charities by the IRS, primarily in Texas counties including Nueces and Aransas. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, governmental entities, or political activities, ensuring support is directed towards community enhancement and welfare.

The Garland D. Rhoads Foundation Grant supports qualified 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in Texas, focusing on community improvement, education, health, and human services. Established in 1971, the foundation aims to alleviate human suffering and promote civic betterment. Preference is given to organizations serving Navarro County, ensuring that funds are utilized for significant public projects and scientific research, fostering a better future for all.

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.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title I, Part A

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

Title I, Part A, provides supplemental resources to school systems to help schools with high concentrations of students from low-income families provide high-quality education that will enable all children to meet the challenging state academic standards. Title I, Part A, supports campuses in implementing either a schoolwide program (SWP) or a targeted assistance program (TAP).