Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The Carl C. Anderson Sr. & Marie Jo Anderson Foundation Grant supports organizations that assist low-income and vulnerable populations in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. The foundation emphasizes essential needs for children and youth, services for older adults, and enhancements for individuals with disabilities. They prioritize flexible, collaborative funding relationships and aim to improve community health and wellbeing. Please refer to their website for funding examples and additional guidelines.

Avion Takes Action, a charitable fund by Avion Solutions Inc, empowers community organizations by providing grants to support various quality-of-life initiatives. With a focus on basic needs, education, healthcare, environment, and veterans, the fund has awarded over $250,000 in grants over three years. Eligible non-profits can apply for a minimum of six $5,000 grants every six months, ensuring impactful contributions to local communities where Avion employees live.

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.

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 D, Subpart 2 

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

[ESSA, Section 1421]

The purpose of Title I, Part D, Subpart 2, is to do the following:

• To carry out high-quality education programs to prepare children and youth for secondary school completion, training, employment, or further education;
• Provide children and youth with the services needed to make a successful transition from institutionalization to further education or employment; and
• To operate programs in local schools, including schools operated or funded by the Bureau of Indian Education for children and youth returning from correctional facilities and programs that may serve at-risk children and youth.

Intended beneficiaries are school systems with high numbers or percentages of children and youth residing in locally-operated (including county-operated) correctional facilities for children and youth. 

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 Native Plant Society of Texas offers the Dr. Alfred Richardson Scholarship, aimed at undergraduates majoring in biology, ecology, or related fields. This scholarship, funded through an endowment, provides $5,000-$10,000 per year for up to two years. Recipients must demonstrate a commitment to the conservation and utilization of Texas native plants. This initiative aligns with the Society's mission to promote education and outreach regarding native plant conservation.

The Sigma Xi Grants-in-Aid of Research Program, celebrating 100 years of supporting research, offers financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students. Members can receive grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, while non-members can apply for up to $1,000. Additionally, there are specific funds available for astronomy and vision-related research. This program fosters collaboration between students and mentors, promoting scientific excellence through hands-on experience.

The purpose of this program is to enhance, expand, or modify existing maternal health outcome initiatives that prioritize diagnoses identified as severe obstetric complications (SOCs) and reduce SOCs (not present on admission that occur during the current delivery encounter), address gaps in maternal health outcomes, and strengthen community-based systems to ensure high-quality preventive, primary, and specialty services for pregnant or postpartum women. 

The Community Forestry Grants Program by Texas A&M Forest Service aims to foster sustainable urban forestry initiatives, enhancing community resilience against climate change while promoting health equity. Each grant, worth $50,000, supports projects that develop diverse tree cover and improve public access to green spaces, particularly in historically disadvantaged areas. Eligible entities include public and non-profit organizations, focusing on innovative solutions that integrate urban forestry into community planning and wellness strategies.

The Diminished Tree Species Grant Program focuses on restoring native tree species crucial for biodiversity and forest health. By funding scientific research, seed orchard development, and land preservation, the program aims to combat climate change through effective tree restoration projects. The Oak Hill Fund, a private entity, encourages project-specific applications, prioritizing organizations that meet eligibility criteria under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. This initiative is vital for sustaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating environmental impacts.

The Growing Healthy Kids Grant, funded by The Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, aims to support community-based programs that enhance children's nutrition access and health education. With grant amounts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, this initiative focuses on hands-on programs that promote healthy habits among children and their families. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates, helping to ensure that the funds directly benefit local communities.

The Superior HealthPlan Community Grant Program offers $10,000 to Texas-based organizations tackling Non-Medical Drivers of Health (NMDOH). Focus areas include housing stability, food security, and healthcare access. Grants are awarded annually, with applications reviewed by the Superior HealthPlan Grant Committee. Nonprofits addressing issues like housing insecurity, food access, and healthcare literacy are encouraged to apply. Successful applicants must serve the Medicaid population and submit required documentation by April 30, 2025.

The GM Corporate Giving Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and transportation initiatives. Applications are accepted from January to September, with a requirement to submit requests at least three months before the program’s start date. GM emphasizes charitable contributions in the communities where it operates, ensuring that organizations align with its values. The grant amount is not limited and is assessed based on the proposed program's merit and needs.

The Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support programs benefiting children in Texas, focusing on growth, self-esteem, and innovation. Grants usually do not exceed $10,000 for program funding and can reach up to $50,000 for capital needs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and serve children within Texas. The foundation encourages collaborative projects and may request site visits to evaluate grant proposals effectively.

The 2025-2026 Perkins V grant aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) for secondary students by developing their academic and employability skills. It focuses on integrating rigorous academic and technical instruction, increasing flexibility in service provision, and building partnerships among educational institutions and industries. Additionally, the program seeks to support underrepresented populations, ensuring they gain the necessary skills for competitive employment in high-demand fields.

The FY2026 Implementation of the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Action Plan (QZAP) seeks to address the rapid spread of these invasive species in the Western United States. This funding opportunity aims to support proposals that align with the priorities established in QZAP 2.0, focusing on critical areas for prevention and control. Applications will only be accepted through grantsolutions.gov, and the initiative is limited to U.S. states within the Western Regional Panel.

The George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation, established in 1954, supports education, arts, scientific projects, and religious advancement in Texas. With over $132.2 million awarded in grants and scholarships, it aids qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and institutions. The Foundation is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through various initiatives, including scholarships for students and funding for medical and research institutions. Its commitment to charitable causes has made a significant impact over its 70 years of service.

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 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 Boyd And Evelyn Mullen Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support various charitable organizations in Texas, primarily focusing on education, literary studies, science, and religion. With a commitment to improving the welfare of those in need, the foundation provides funding for college scholarships, disaster relief, and medical research, especially in nutrition. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $30,000, and the foundation emphasizes adapting to the evolving needs of the Houston community.

The Texas Women’s Foundation’s Community Grant supports nonprofits empowering women and girls in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. With a focus on addressing systemic oppression, grants up to $40,000 are awarded for capacity-building, operating, and program support. Key priorities include economic security, workforce development, and health access. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to serving women and girls, ensuring at least 75% of beneficiaries fall within this demographic.

The Sorenson Legacy Foundation Grant aims to improve lives through support for education, health care, community development, and innovation. Established by James and Beverley Sorenson, the foundation focuses on enhancing art education, medical technologies, and community assistance in Utah. It prioritizes projects that foster artistic growth, promote innovative solutions, and address health care challenges while aiding vulnerable populations. The foundation's commitment to enriching lives reflects a deep-rooted belief in the power of education and community engagement.

The TDECU Cares Foundation Grant supports local organizations that enhance community well-being by focusing on education, employment pathways, and essential human needs. Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)(3) non-profits and governmental entities within TDECU's service areas. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its strategic focus and provide volunteer opportunities for TDECU employees. By investing in impactful initiatives, the foundation aims to foster meaningful change in the communities it serves.

The Therapeutic Giving initiative by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding programs in neuroscience aimed at enhancing patient access to treatments and promoting health equity. Nonprofit organizations classified as 501(c)(3) can apply for support from March 1 to May 31. The initiative emphasizes innovative, measurable programs in areas like Alzheimer’s disease and mental health, prioritizing those that address healthcare disparities and improve quality of life for affected individuals.

The Therapeutic Giving program from Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine aims to support local and regional organizations focused on improving patient access to treatment and advancing health equity. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, with funding preferences for programs that address significant healthcare disparities, mental health initiatives, and innovative solutions with measurable outcomes. The application period for local organizations runs from March 1 to May 31, while national organizations can apply in September.

Company culture at Clark Associates emphasizes responsibility, sharing our success with others, and the importance of building strong communities. To help fulfill these goals, Clark Associates Charitable Foundation (CACF) was incorporated in 2001 and provides funding to organizations serving people in need and those delivering positive experiences for youth. CACF supports non-profits operating in and around its business locations and those where our employees volunteer and actively contribute. To date, CACF has distributed over $44 million in charitable contributions.

Organizations must be registered 501c3 charities serving three basic categories: people in need, innovative youth educational programs, and youth programs in music and the arts. People in need represents the largest giving category and includes homelessness, food insecurity, individuals with disabilities, victims of abuse, and people in recovery. Examples of other grant recipients include those assisting veterans, senior citizens, at-risk youth, academic enrichment, mentorship, leadership development, and those focused on the performing and visual arts.CACF evaluates grant applications submitted by non-profit organizations every month of the year.

Women’s Philanthropy Fund

In 2008, Amarillo Area Foundation and a group of community-minded women established the Women’s Philanthropy Fund (WPF) to address the needs of women and children in the Texas Panhandle. In 2022, the WPF moved from a membership-only model to the opportunity for ANY individual, family, or business with a passion to support the critical needs of women and children in our region, to contribute and have a direct impact on the well-being of women and children in the Texas Panhandle… in all areas of life. 

Our Mission

To transform the lives of women and children in the Texas Panhandle through fundraising, grant-making, and advocacy.

Grant award amounts will vary between $2,500 and $10,000. WPF is focused on the needs of women and children that serve an urgent or critical need and/or demonstrate unique solutions to time-worn problems and/or engage in bold new ventures. Eligible programs will address one or more of the focus areas described below, in a manner that creates impact, shows innovation, and involves others in a collaborative manner.

Organizations or programs should address:

Self-sufficiency: Programs that provide women with the skills and resources to be economically independent and self-sufficient. Examples of such programs may include but are not limited to:

• Access to emergency shelter or affordable housing;
• Access to affordable, quality day care and after school programs for children;
• Prevention of or assistance in overcoming homelessness or poverty;
• Transportation assistance;
• Education and training programs targeted toward job skills, budgeting and money management, parenting skills, etc.

Health and Safety: Programs that support the health and well-being of women and children and allow them to live in homes and communities without fear of violence. Examples of such programs may include but are not limited to:

• Healthcare-related education and awareness programs;
• Access to preventive medical screenings;
• Low or no-cost medical services for uninsured or medically needy women and children;
• Programs that instill leadership and build esteem in women/children.