Best Financial Assistance Grants in Texas

The AAUW Community Action Grants provide up to $75,000 to support nonprofits and educational institutions that empower girls in grades K–12 to succeed in STEM fields. By fostering hands-on learning, mentorship, and family involvement, these grants aim to build confidence and skills among girls, especially those from underrepresented communities. AAUW believes that immersive STEM environments and relatable role models can inspire lasting interest and help close the gender gap in leadership and careers.

The Margaret Wheeler Kennedy Scholarship Fund, established by the children of Margaret Wheeler Kennedy, supports graduating high school seniors who are active members of Holy Family, Sacred Heart, St. Francis, or St. Vincent Pallotti Catholic Churches in Abilene. Eligible students must rank in the top 25% of their class and have participated in religious education. Awards are sent directly to educational institutions, assisting students in pursuing their academic and career goals.

The Nolan County Foundation Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Abilene, provides financial assistance to eligible graduating seniors from Nolan County high schools. Awards range from $500 to over $5,000 and are sent directly to educational institutions. This initiative supports various students, including those pursuing trade certifications, ensuring broader access to higher education opportunities. Applications require a completed acceptance form before payment processing in August and January.

The Paul & Barbara Bond College Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Erie City’s Public schools. Eligible students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher and plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in any field. In 2023, the foundation awarded over $800,000 in scholarships to more than 500 deserving students, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the community.

The Perry Bentley Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Abilene, awards a four-year scholarship to a high school senior selected as the winner of the annual art show at McMurry University. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing higher education and is part of a broader initiative that provides various scholarships to deserving candidates. Eligible applicants must plan to attend McMurry University to qualify for this prestigious award.

The Rodney Holder Memorial Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, honors the legacy of a dedicated police veteran who served his community for 28 years. This scholarship supports graduating high school seniors and current college students, particularly children of Taylor County first responders. With awards ranging from $500 to over $5,000, it aims to ease educational expenses and ensure that Rodney Holder's commitment to service continues to inspire future generations.

The John G. Blakesley Mathematical Excellence Scholarship is awarded annually to an exceptional eighth-grade student in Elkhart County. This four-year scholarship, totaling $5,000, supports higher education expenses and is funded by local businessman John Blakesley, who aims to empower future generations. Candidates are nominated by their schools and must demonstrate outstanding character, leadership, and a commitment to learning, reflecting the values cherished by Mr. Blakesley.

The Edith and Herbert Stehberg Grant Fund, established in 1993 by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, provides four awards of $2,185 to assist local undergraduate students at accredited institutions. This fund aims to support students in achieving their academic goals by offering essential financial aid during their studies, thereby fostering educational advancement within the Greater Dallas Jewish community.

The Philip Keenan Award, presented by the American Orchid Society, honors individuals dedicated to studying or preserving native orchids in North America. This prestigious award acknowledges past accomplishments in these fields, promoting broader appreciation for orchids and supporting ongoing conservation efforts. Applicants can include students, amateurs, or professionals who demonstrate commitment and passion for orchid research and preservation, contributing to the sustainability of these beautiful plants.

The Dorothy and Louis Suckle Scholarship Fund, managed by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, offers five scholarships of $5,540 each to support local Jewish undergraduate and graduate students. This fund, established in memory of Dorothy Suckle, aims to alleviate financial barriers for Jewish students pursuing higher education. By providing significant financial assistance, the fund helps students advance academically and professionally while contributing to the growth of the Jewish community in the Dallas area.

The Roffman Family Scholarship Fund, administered by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, provides $4,440 to support local Jewish students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional education. This scholarship aims to assist high-achieving individuals who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, enabling them to advance their educational and professional aspirations. The DJCF is dedicated to empowering the Greater Dallas Jewish community through strategic charitable giving, fostering a culture of philanthropy and community engagement.

The Donald J. Grossfeld Memorial Fund, established by the family of Donald J. Grossfeld through the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, awards $3,375 scholarships to support Jewish undergraduate and graduate students at Southern Methodist University. This fund honors Grossfeld's commitment to education and aims to empower local Jewish students in their academic pursuits, ensuring they have the financial resources to advance their education and contribute positively to the community.

The Stephen Hales Prize, established in 1927 by the American Society of Plant Biologists (ASPB), honors the Reverend Stephen Hales for his groundbreaking contributions to plant biology, particularly noted in his 1727 work, Vegetable Staticks. This prestigious award is given annually to an ASPB member who has made significant contributions to the field. The recipient is invited to present their work at the Society's annual meeting, fostering engagement within the plant science community.

The FDA is funding a Center for Research on Complex Generics to enhance collaboration with the generic drug industry. This initiative aims to identify scientific challenges in generic product development, facilitate expert engagement, and coordinate research projects. By hosting workshops and providing public access to research outcomes, the center will support the FDA's mission to improve patient access to high-quality, safe, and effective generic drugs, thus strengthening regulatory science efforts.

The Roffman Scholarship Fund, part of the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, supports local undergraduate students from minority communities with a $4,235 scholarship. This initiative aims to enhance access to higher education and provide essential financial assistance to underrepresented students, empowering them to achieve their academic and career aspirations. Established by the Roffman family, the fund reflects a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the educational landscape of Greater Dallas.

The Solomon and Rebecca Topletz Scholarship Fund, established by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, provides a $1,080 scholarship to support local undergraduate and graduate students in their pursuit of higher education. This initiative honors the legacy of Solomon and Rebecca Topletz by fostering academic success and encouraging students to become compassionate, responsible citizens committed to community betterment.

The Deborah S. Hersh Scholarship Fund, established by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, offers a $2,100 scholarship to Jewish undergraduate students from small Texas towns with limited Jewish congregations. This initiative honors Deborah, a former DJCF employee, and aims to support students in enhancing their Jewish education and community ties. By fostering academic pursuits, the fund seeks to empower individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, ensuring they have the resources to succeed in higher education.

The David L. Goodman Scholarship Fund, established by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, supports local Jewish undergraduate and graduate students with four awards of $5,685 each. This initiative aims to alleviate financial burdens and empower deserving students to pursue their educational aspirations. Founded in 2014, the fund exemplifies the Foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities and making a positive impact within the Greater Dallas Jewish community.

The Digitizing Hidden Collections: Amplifying Unheard Voices Program, administered by CLIR, aims to digitize rare and unique content from diverse communities in the US and Canada. Launched in 2021, this initiative focuses on materials that highlight the histories of underrepresented groups, including people of color and marginalized communities. The program promotes public knowledge, broad representation, authentic partnerships, sustainable infrastructures, and community-centered access, providing funding between $50,000 and $300,000 to eligible organizations.

The National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate (NDSEG) Fellowship offers U.S. citizens and nationals the opportunity to pursue doctoral degrees in science and engineering fields critical to the Department of Defense. Awardees receive full tuition coverage, a monthly stipend of $3,600, and health insurance support. With over 4,400 fellowships awarded since its inception, the program aims to foster the next generation of scientists and engineers, encouraging diverse applicants to align their research with DoD priorities.

The Dallas Jewish Historical Society Debra Polsky Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, provides $1,185 to support college upperclassmen pursuing careers in Jewish communal service. This scholarship honors Debra Gayle Polsky, a dedicated leader in the Jewish community, encouraging students to enter fields such as Jewish education, social work, and the rabbinate. It's designed to empower the next generation of Jewish leaders, ensuring the legacy of community service continues.

The Clifford D. Grim and Virginia S. Grim Educational Fund offers scholarships to deserving students from Winchester/Frederick and Clark Counties, VA. Facilitated by the Center for Scholarship Administration, Inc., the fund provides financial support for students enrolled full-time in accredited colleges. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.5. Scholarships are renewable for up to four years, contingent upon reapplication each year.

The Permobil Foundation offers sponsorships and grants to enhance the lives of individuals with mobility limitations. Committed to promoting independent mobility as a basic human right, the Foundation supports organizations that align with its mission through event sponsorships, grant funding, employee engagement, and in-kind donations. Applications are accepted monthly, with an emphasis on initiatives that yield significant community impact. The Foundation prioritizes relationships with Permobil employees and critical community needs.

The Dale and Harold Topletz College Scholarship Fund, established by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, offers a $1,260 scholarship to support local undergraduate and graduate students. This fund honors the legacy of Dale and Harold Topletz by fostering academic success and encouraging students to become compassionate, community-oriented individuals. The scholarship aims to empower students to pursue higher education and reflect the values of generosity and service exemplified by their parents.

The Gregory R. Jacobs Scholarship, administered by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, offers $1,215 to undergraduate and graduate students at the Ackerman Center for Holocaust Studies at the University of Texas at Dallas. Established in honor of Gregory Jacobs, this scholarship prioritizes local students from Dallas, Denton, Tarrant, or Collin County who are committed to completing at least one Holocaust studies course in the upcoming academic year.

The Joe Goldstein Memorial Scholarship in Fashion and Retailing, offered by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, awards $5,500 to upper-class undergraduate students majoring in fashion merchandising, retailing, or marketing. Established in memory of Joe Goldstein, this scholarship honors his dedication to the Jewish Community Center of Dallas and aims to support students advancing in consumer industries and business innovation. Preference is given to upperclassmen nearing degree completion, fostering leadership and creativity in the field.

The Preserving Black Churches Grant Program, managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, aims to support the preservation of historic Black churches. Grants range from $50,000 to $500,000 and fund various projects, including restoration, capacity building, and community engagement. The program encourages applications from active and non-active congregations, nonprofits, and public agencies, emphasizing the importance of these churches in their communities. This initiative seeks to strengthen heritage and foster cultural connections.