Best Grants for BIPOC in Texas

The Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Grants provide federal funding to support the installation of boat sewage pump-out stations in Texas. Administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, these grants can cover up to 75% of the project costs, aiding private marinas and local governments in constructing, renovating, and maintaining essential sanitation facilities for boaters. This initiative promotes environmental protection and enhances water quality in Texas's waterways.

The Louise Bowers Slentz Foundation Endowed Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from specific Texas Panhandle counties. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and enroll in an accredited college or university. This scholarship aims to enhance the quality of life for residents by facilitating access to higher education, with a requirement for a cumulative GPA of 2.5 during college to retain eligibility.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Ted H. Foss Scholarship, offered by the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG), provides $1,000 awards to undergraduate students majoring in geology or earth science at accredited colleges in Texas. This scholarship aims to support students' educational costs and promote their involvement in AIPG. Named in honor of Dr. Ted H. Foss, the scholarship recognizes his significant contributions to geology and education, including his work with astronauts and mentoring future geologists.

The Emerging Artists Competition & Exhibition, organized by Arts For Rural Texas, showcases the creativity of rural Texas students in grades 6-12. Participants submit original artwork for a chance to win ribbons and share in $5,000 in cash prizes. This annual event, held at the Ross Gallery, aims to inspire young artists and promote cultural engagement in rural communities, while fostering artistic development and appreciation among youth.

The Women Building Community Grants, offered by the Community Foundation of Brazoria County, Texas, aim to address critical issues affecting women and children in Brazoria County. With a total funding of $17,000 available, the grants support projects focused on life-skills education, self-sufficiency, and collaboration. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits based in the county. This funding cycle prioritizes impactful initiatives that foster community development and empowerment.

The Salad and Go Charities Grant supports local 501(c)(3) nonprofit meal programs that provide nutritious food to those facing food insecurity. Aimed at enhancing community wellness, the program offers grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for initiatives like expanding kitchen facilities and sourcing healthy ingredients. Organizations in Texas, Oklahoma, Nevada, and Arizona are encouraged to apply, fostering access to affordable food for vulnerable populations in need.

The Senator Grady and Andrine Hazlewood Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, aims to support students from the top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle. Eligible applicants must maintain a 3.2 GPA in high school and a 2.8 GPA in college for renewal. This scholarship seeks to empower local students attending Amarillo College, WTAMU, or Texas Tech, fostering educational opportunities and community growth.

The Hildur H. Michel Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations assisting individuals who are blind and visually impaired, primarily in Texas, particularly El Paso. Grants range from $3,000 to $5,000 and are awarded annually to 3-5 qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation does not typically fund requests for salaries not related to program support, ensuring that funds are directed towards meaningful programmatic efforts.

The Willmoth Family Scholarship, established in 2025 by Seth and Tamara Willmoth at the University of North Texas Health Science Center, awards $1,000 annually to economically disadvantaged first-year PA students with a 4.0 science GPA. This scholarship aims to support students who excelled in their undergraduate studies, fostering future healthcare leaders. UNTHSC, located in Fort Worth, offers over 100 scholarships annually to promote academic excellence and leadership within its health professions programs.

The Hope Choice Pregnancy Center Scholarship, established in memory of Jacky Hall, supports mothers and birth mothers who are current or former clients of Hope Choice Pregnancy Center. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 and provide verification from CareNet. Preference is given to students planning to attend Amarillo College or West Texas A&M University. This scholarship aims to empower women while addressing important community needs in the Texas Panhandle.

The Jack and Marci McMicken Scholarship Fund, administered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, is dedicated to supporting members and immediate family members of the Amarillo Bowling Association, the Amarillo Women’s Bowling Association, and the Amarillo Young Bowling Alliance. This scholarship does not utilize the AAF general application. The foundation plays a crucial role in addressing community challenges and fostering philanthropy in the Texas Panhandle.

The Partners for Places Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative Grants aim to support communities by leveraging infrastructure funds to create equitable projects that benefit underserved areas. This pilot program will provide funding for local workers through career training and inclusive economic practices. With grants ranging from $45,000 to $120,000, the initiative focuses on enhancing human infrastructure, fostering collaboration among key partners, and ensuring that frontline communities directly benefit from project implementations.

The 2025-2026 Title V, Part B Rural and Low-Income School Program Grant aims to support rural school districts facing challenges in securing federal grants and managing limited resources. This program provides greater flexibility for eligible schools to effectively address their local academic needs without any cost-share or matching requirements. Benefiting all students and teachers in these districts, it seeks to enhance educational opportunities and outcomes in underserved areas.

The LIFE Association Trade Scholarship Fund, established by the Communities Foundation of Texas, offers up to $5,000 to Texas high school seniors and graduates pursuing vocational degrees or certifications at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate good academic standing. This initiative aims to empower students seeking careers in trades, ensuring they have the necessary financial support for tuition, books, and essential equipment.

2026-2027 ESC State Gifted and Talented Performance Standards Initiative

Program Information

The purpose of the program is to implement Gifted/Talented (G/T) education projects that make up the Texas Performance Standards Project (TPSP). Region 13 Education Service Center (ESC) – Advanced Academic Services will oversee the development of the projects and provide leadership and project management.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 5) aims to empower small businesses through comprehensive support from the U.S. Department of Transportation. By providing financial and technical assistance, business training, and outreach, the initiative helps small businesses enhance their competitiveness for DOT-funded contracts. This program is vital for fostering economic growth and ensuring small firms are well-prepared to engage in transportation-related projects at various governmental levels.

The Gene M. Shoemaker Scholarship, offered by the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG), aims to support graduate students in Texas pursuing earth science degrees. Named after Dr. Gene M. Shoemaker, a pioneer in astrogeology, this scholarship honors his contributions to identifying impact craters and promoting exploration beyond Earth. It seeks to encourage talented students who demonstrate potential for significant contributions in their fields and society.

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.

Prekindergarten at Intergenerational Facilities Grant

Program Description

The Prekindergarten at Intergenerational Facilities Grant Program is intended to provide funding to community non-profit organizations to offer prekindergarten services at intergenerational facilities that provide elderly daycare services in zip codes with below median household incomes. The goal of this program is to improve academic and nonacademic skills for participating students, and to support a community connection through the intergenerational facility.

The Scanlan Foundation Grant aims to foster a culture of vocations within the Catholic Church in Texas by supporting initiatives that promote priesthood, religious life, and strong families. Through strategic funding, the foundation prioritizes education, marriage preparation, and community support to enhance the spiritual growth of individuals and families. This grants program is a vital resource for organizations committed to nurturing faith and service, ensuring that the values of the Catholic faith continue to thrive in the community.

Texas K-12 Cybersecurity Initiative

The purpose of this initiative is to provide immediate solutions to protect Texas school systems from major cyber incidents, such as ransomware. In addition to delivering near-term protections, the initiative will assist school systems in maturing their overall cybersecurity programs by strengthening governance, processes, and technical capabilities. The initiative will also provide cybersecurity learning opportunities and training to build local capacity, increase cybersecurity awareness, and support the long-term sustainability of security practices across participating school systems. Priority will be given to high-need school systems, and technical assistance will be available through regional ESCs to support the implementation of cybersecurity controls within the scope of this initiative.

The 2030 Vision Scholarship at the University of North Texas Health Science Center supports Master of Science students in Drug Discovery and Development. This scholarship, valued at $500 with a total potential of $1,000, aims to foster academic excellence and leadership in future health care providers. Eligible candidates must maintain good academic standing and provide a vision for drug discovery by 2030, demonstrating their commitment to advancing this vital field.

The 2025-2026 Sustainable Residency Implementation Continuation Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, supports school systems in Texas to sustain paid teacher residency programs. This funding enables previously supported systems to continue implementing effective residency models in preparation for future funding. The grant aims to enhance teacher recruitment and retention, ensuring immediate instructional needs are addressed while promoting accessible residency pathways for aspiring educators.

The 2030 Vision Scholarship for Applied Outcomes Research at the University of North Texas Health Science Center supports students in the Master of Science program. This $500 scholarship, renewable for a total of $1,000, is awarded based on academic merit and leadership. Eligible students must maintain good academic standing and submit a vision statement on the future of Applied Outcomes Research. This initiative promotes excellence in healthcare education and innovation.

The Love Your Neighbor Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports seniors who demonstrate active community leadership and church involvement. Applicants must submit a letter from their youth minister or pastor. This scholarship is available to students from the top 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle, provided they attend WTAMU or Amarillo College and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to those pursuing Christian-based degrees.

The Dr. Charles and Phyllis Seward Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from the Texas Panhandle. This scholarship prioritizes Native American applicants and is available to those who will attend Amarillo College or West Texas A&M University, allowing them to major in any field of study. By addressing educational needs, this scholarship aims to empower local youth and foster community development.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.