Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource management.

Strake Foundation

Following in the footsteps of our founders and their deep commitment to Catholic faith and American values, our principles are guided by a fundamental belief in traditional Christian teaching, individual dignity, equality of opportunity, self-sufficiency, hard work, and faithful formation.

Based on this vision, Strake Foundation pursues a mission to support conservative Catholic causes, preserve the heritage of George W. Strake and his family, educate individuals and communities in truth, and care for those who are ailing — honoring a legacy of integrity and generous stewardship that spans more than seventy years.

Grant Application

Organizations whose mission aligns with the Foundation’s traditional Catholic values and donor intent are welcome to submit an application. 

Strake Foundation generally adheres to a schedule of 3 meetings per year, in February, July, and November. Grants are restricted to qualified nonprofit organizations holding tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. .

Donor Intent Guidelines

The Board of Directors adheres strictly to the following Donor Intent Guidelines, listed in order of priority:

• Judeo-Christian Religious Organizations: With priority given to Catholic institutions.
• Hospitals and Medical Research: With priority given to women’s health and pro-life causes.
• Private Secondary and Higher Education: With priority given to institutions aligned with Item 1 above.
• U.S. Military Support, Free Market Principles, and Individual Liberty: Organizations advancing these causes.
• Poverty and Homelessness Initiatives: With priority given to Harris County.
• Civic and Cultural Organizations: With priority given to Houston, and secondary consideration to Austin, Dallas, and the broader state of Texas.

The WKKF Grant, offered by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is dedicated to fostering a future where every child and family thrives. With a focus on nurturing early education, accessible healthcare, and equitable food systems, this grant supports initiatives that empower communities across the U.S. and parts of Mexico and Haiti. Organizations meeting IRS regulations and being legal entities, particularly 501(c)(3) nonprofits, are encouraged to apply for funding to create lasting impacts in their communities.

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.

P-TECH Continued Support Grant

Program Description

This grant will implement innovative strategies for providing a robust model of support to P-TECH campuses in the CCRSM network:

• Developing strategy and resources for successfully scaling CCRSM programs with fidelity to increase the number of CCRSM teachers and CCRSM students
• CCRSM leaders from campuses, districts, institutes of higher education, and business and industry to support and sustain a mature CCRSM model.

The Virtual Professional Development Award aims to enhance professional knowledge and experience for individuals in Region 3 Network Member institutions. By funding attendance at seminars and conferences related to data science and health information access, this award supports the goals of the Network of the National Library of Medicine (NNLM). It seeks to improve health information access for healthcare providers and consumers, particularly among underrepresented populations, fostering health equity and literacy.

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

The Professional Development Award aims to enhance the capabilities of individuals affiliated with Region 3 Network Member institutions. This funding supports attendance at seminars and workshops focused on data science and health information access, promoting improved health literacy and equity. The NNLM encourages projects that empower underrepresented communities and healthcare professionals. Applications are open until funds are exhausted or April 1, 2024, with a singular award per annual performance cycle.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

The Career and Technical Education Innovative Services for Special Populations Grant is intended to support school systems to address gaps in CTE access for students identified as special populations under the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. This grant will enable school systems to design and implement innovative services that address gaps and disparities identified through the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment, with a specific focus on improving outcomes for underserved student groups and special populations.

The NACD Technical Assistance Grants program, in partnership with NRCS, has been enhancing conservation district support since 2018. By funding staff hires, it aims to improve service for agricultural producers and address conservation workload challenges. The initiative focuses on outreach, education, and civic engagement to empower local communities, promote sustainability, and support historically underserved producers in implementing conservation practices, thereby fostering both individual and community resilience.

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. 

Healthy Choices Grant Level 1

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.

Level 1 grants are awarded for a single school year (two or more semesters) or a summer program. Campus level, Grade Level, Teacher and Summer Programs that meet the minimum requirement of 3 of the 7 Healthy messages will be considered for Level 1 funding.

A physical activity and nutrition educational component are required as two of the three Healthy Messages. Including more than 3 of the Healthy Messages is encouraged. All programs must have a sustainability plan. Grants that are purchasing equipment or supplies that are on an annual renewal basis, the grant must include a plan to renew said equipment/supplies for subsequent years.

The Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation offers Community Grants in North Texas, focusing on enhancing financial independence for seniors, supporting arts and culture, aiding youth transitioning from foster care, and addressing economic disparities. Grants range from $15,000 to $75,000, averaging $30,000. Eligible counties include Collin, Dallas, Denton, Rockwall, and Tarrant. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that empower economically disadvantaged communities while ensuring that funds are not directed to individual support or non-tax-exempt organizations.

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. 

Best Buddies Grant Program

Program Description

The purpose of the Best Buddies grant program is to provide support in creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development for Texas middle school and high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

The Knapp Community Care Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Mid-Valley region that enhance health and wellness. Since 2013, the foundation focuses on projects addressing the Social Determinants of Health, including economic stability and healthcare access. Eligible organizations must be recognized 501(c)(3) entities and demonstrate innovative programs that positively impact the community. The foundation encourages partnerships and evidence-based initiatives to leverage additional funding and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The Levin Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofits focused on critical issues in Montgomery County, Ohio, such as the opiate epidemic, human trafficking, anti-bullying, and suicide prevention. Established in 1996, the foundation has invested over $12 million globally, emphasizing projects that align with its mission. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt. Priority is given to initiatives in the Greater Dayton Area, fostering positive community impact.

The 2026-2027 Rural Pathway Excellence Partnership (R-PEP) Planning and Expansion Grant, overseen by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance rural students' access to quality college and career pathways. By fostering multi-district partnerships, this initiative promotes regional collaboration among school systems and workforce entities to design and implement effective educational pathways. The program focuses on successful student transitions beyond high school, ensuring long-term capacity and accountability in education.

The Texas Campaign for the Environment Fund offers mini-grants up to $4,000 to grassroots groups addressing environmental issues, particularly in response to the February Deep Freeze. Applications are open to both formal and informal organizations, with a focus on community involvement and strategic action. Grants will prioritize applicants with annual budgets under $50,000. Evaluation criteria include project need, community participation, and the capacity to implement proposed activities.

The Kosciuszko Foundation offers Tuition Scholarships for American students of Polish descent pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. Scholarships can provide up to $12,000 for full-time studies, including master's and Ph.D. programs. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents with Polish heritage and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This program aims to foster educational exchanges and cultural understanding between the U.S. and Poland, supporting various fields of study.

The Najim Family Foundation Grant aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations serving children in the Greater San Antonio area. Grants focus on vital areas such as food, shelter, clothing, education, and mental health. First-time applicants must consult with the Grant Manager and meet specific eligibility criteria. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with a proven operational history of at least three years and restricts funding for various purposes, ensuring support is directed to the most pressing needs of children.

The Exhibit Award from the National Library of Medicine supports outreach and professional capacity building through conferences and institutional exhibits. Its mission is to enhance access to biomedical information, particularly for underrepresented populations. Eligible applicants include members of network institutions and organizations serving specific states. Projects may focus on health literacy, equity, and diversity initiatives, aiming to improve health outcomes and awareness of health resources.

The WaterSMART Applied Science Grants aim to enhance water management and supply reliability through innovative research and data utilization. By inviting qualified entities to apply for funding, the program focuses on improving hydrologic data access, forecasting capabilities, and modeling tools. This initiative aligns with federal priorities to optimize resources, ensuring water managers can effectively address future demands and adapt to climate challenges, thus fostering resilience in water operations across the nation.

Texas Mutual is offering funding for workforce development and safety training initiatives to strengthen Texas's economy. This grant supports organizations that provide training for skilled workforce safety, create pathways for middle-skill jobs, and focus on upskilling adult learners. Eligible applicants can request between $25,000-$100,000, aligning their proposals with Texas Mutual's mission. The program prioritizes ongoing projects that demonstrate early results, established partnerships, and are in line with Texas communities' needs.

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (the Department) announces a NOFA in HOME funds for Single-Family housing programs under the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) set-aside under a Reservation System. These funds will be made available to HOME Reservation System Participants with a current Reservation System Participation (RSP) Agreement. The following activity types are eligible uses of HOME funds awarded under this NOFA: (1) Homeowner Reconstruction Assistance (HRA) and (2) Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA).

The Early College High School (ECHS) initiative by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) offers an innovative program that allows students to earn up to two years of college credit at no cost. Targeting historically underserved and at-risk students, ECHS promotes higher education access and success. Research indicates that ECHS participants are nearly three times more likely to earn college degrees compared to their peers, demonstrating its effectiveness in bridging educational gaps.

The Community Forestry Grants Program: Tree Planting, initiated by Texas A&M Forest Service, aims to enhance urban and community tree canopy coverage across Texas. This program invites proposals for 2026 to foster sustainable forestry practices, improving public health and environmental conditions. By addressing urban sustainability challenges highlighted in the Texas Forest Action Plan, such as climate and water quality, communities can secure funding to implement impactful tree planting initiatives, ultimately contributing to a greener, more resilient future.

The Looking Out Foundation Grant supports social justice and humanitarian initiatives, having donated nearly $6 million to various causes globally. With an average donation of $25 per campaign, it aids organizations focused on disaster relief, racial justice, and support for marginalized communities. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities under Section 501(c)(3). The foundation prioritizes diverse funding sources and encourages organizations to adapt to changing needs, with grant allocations ranging from $5,000 to $25,000.

The Title III, Part A Web-based Resource Initiative Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance resources for emergent bilingual and immigrant students. This initiative will support professional development for local educational agency staff by providing interactive web-based guidance and resource tools. It is designed to strengthen program implementation and improve language development, ensuring better educational outcomes for over 5 million students in Texas.