Best Grants for BIPOC in Texas

The Summerfield G. Roberts Foundation Trust Grant, established in 1990, supports Texas history education, medical research, and scholarships for graduate studies in business and finance. Managed by Bank of America, the foundation awards grants to nonprofit organizations that align with its mission to address vital community needs. With an initial corpus of $6 million, it seeks to empower individuals and promote knowledge through various educational initiatives.

The Corning Nonprofit Grants program supports community-based initiatives in education, human services, and culture. Eligible nonprofits that align with our criteria may apply for funding on a rolling basis. The application window for invited organizations runs from February 10 to September 15. We emphasize local impact within a 20-mile radius of Corning, NY, ensuring that our contributions foster collective growth and engagement in the community.

The Forrest Shreve Student Research Fund, awarded by the Ecological Society of America, supports research in North America's hot deserts, including the Sonoran and Mojave. This fund aims to enhance our understanding of desert ecology through innovative projects. Eligible applicants include graduate and undergraduate students who are ESA members. Proposals are evaluated based on their significance, feasibility, and design, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $2,000, granted annually.

The Christopher C. Mathewson Texas Section Scholarship supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing geology at accredited Texas institutions. Funded by the AEG Foundation, awards recognize students for their academic excellence, potential contributions to the profession, and active participation in professional societies. Eligible candidates must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and hold AEG student membership. This scholarship fosters the growth of future geologists committed to advancing the field through education and engagement.

The Women’s Fund Grant, initiated by the Austin Community Foundation in 2004, has become a significant driver of change for women and children in Central Texas. With over $4 million granted to more than 100 nonprofits, it aims to address critical issues such as housing, child care, education, unintended pregnancy prevention, and women's health. In 2024, the Fund will celebrate its 20th anniversary and continue its mission of empowering communities through strategic funding and collaboration.

The F26AS00104 State ANS Management Plan 2026 aims to combat aquatic nuisance species through pre-proposals followed by full applications. Managed by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, this initiative requires a 25% cost-share and limits administrative costs to 5%. Applications are due by October 14, 2026, though the funding opportunity closes on December 16, 2026. The plan is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting a coordinated national approach to invasive species management.

The NRP Young Investigator Award is designed to support research on optimizing newborn care during delivery using Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) techniques. This grant encourages innovative projects addressing gaps in transitional physiology and resuscitation practices. Eligible applicants include researchers from Canadian and US institutions, particularly those in training or within four years of completing medical training. Awardees may receive up to $15,000 to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

The Medical Student Education Program (MSE) supports public medical schools in states facing primary care provider shortages, aiming to enhance medical education for future physicians. Eligible states include those in the top quartile projected to face shortages by 2038. Currently, 12 states such as Alabama and Texas are recognized, with 23 public medical schools identified as potential beneficiaries. Note that current MSE grantees are ineligible for the 2026 funding cycle.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding up to $25,000 for organizations focused on improving health outcomes in underserved communities. Established in 1943, the foundation prioritizes health equity through strategic partnerships aimed at reducing cancer burdens, preparing healthcare professionals, and enhancing crisis response efforts. Eligible applicants include national and local nonprofits targeting specific regions in the U.S. and Canada. The foundation emphasizes projects that align with its mission and demonstrate significant community impact.

The Southern SARE: On-Farm Research Grant supports agricultural professionals in collaborating with farmers to conduct innovative on-farm research projects focused on sustainable agriculture. This initiative emphasizes building strong relationships between researchers and farmers while addressing agricultural production challenges. By fostering new practices in production and marketing, it aims to enhance sustainability in the agricultural sector, thereby benefiting local communities and the environment.

The Southern SARE: Professional Development Grants support educational initiatives for agricultural professionals, enhancing outreach and training efforts directly benefiting farmers and ranchers. These grants fund diverse training activities, including workshops and farm tours, aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture through effective participatory methods. Projects are encouraged to involve multi-disciplinary partnerships and the participation of land-grant institutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to agricultural education. Priority is given to projects with budgets under $80,000, fostering a broad array of impactful initiatives.

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, in collaboration with NOAA, is offering funding to enhance environmental literacy and community resilience across the U.S. Gulf Coast. This initiative supports projects focused on local environmental challenges and solutions through place-based education. With $4M available, applicants can request between $100,000 and $750,000 for projects lasting 12 to 36 months, aimed at engaging community members and fostering future leaders in addressing regional environmental issues.

The Trees for Texans - Trees For Schools Grant, in partnership with Texan by Nature and H-E-B, aims to enhance community environments through native tree planting at schools near new H-E-B stores. This initiative not only helps cool urban areas and mitigate the urban heat island effect but also fosters educational opportunities and promotes mental well-being. By investing in sustainable practices, the program ensures long-term ecological benefits and engages the next generation in conservation efforts.

The Greater Texas Foundation's Aggie Scholars Program aims to support graduates of early college high schools in achieving their degrees from Texas A&M University. This initiative focuses on underserved and socioeconomically disadvantaged students, offering a three-year scholarship awarded in six stipends. To qualify, applicants must complete the FAFSA or TASFA by April 15 and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.50 while living on campus during their first year. The program encourages academic persistence and community involvement.

Community Foundation of West Texas

Established in 1981, the Lubbock Area Foundation changed its name to the Community Foundation of West Texas in September 2015. The Foundation is one of more than 700 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the following counties that make up the Texas South Plains area, Bailey, Cochran, Crosby, Dickens, Floyd, Garza, Hale, Hockley, King, Lamb, Lubbock, Lynn, Motley, Terry, and Yoakum by offering people a variety of ways to touch their community through philanthropic giving.

Scholarships

The Community Foundation of West Texas is proud to award over 100 scholarships to South Plains area students each year. We work closely with the groups or individuals who have so graciously established scholarship funds to help out their community. We believe in creating a lasting impact in a student's life that they will cherish forever. Helping South Plains students today creates a stronger future for them tomorrow and beyond. 

James & Bernice Braxton Music & Elementary Education Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Thomas Braxton and his sister Ruby Braxton in memory of their parents, James and Bernice Braxton. James and Bernice were educators in the Lubbock ISD for almost 30 years. This scholarship is open to graduating seniors of a Lubbock County high school and plans to major in Music or Elementary Education at a Texas college or University.

The Patterson Foundation offers Oral Health Grants to support programs that enhance access to dental care for underserved communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations can apply for funding up to $35,000 for capacity expansion, $10,000 for personnel support, or $10,000 for program support. The foundation prioritizes projects led by volunteer dental professionals and requires follow-up reports for continued funding. Applications are accepted year-round through a two-step process.

The Luling Foundation offers a one-time $1,000 Trade/Vocational Scholarship Grant to support students in Caldwell, Gonzales, and Guadalupe Counties pursuing vocational training. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, have a high school diploma, and maintain good academic and conduct records. This scholarship aims to promote education in trade skills, providing financial assistance for students beginning their vocational studies in the fall semester.

The Tocker Foundation offers General Library Grants aimed at enhancing library services and programs in rural Texas communities with populations of 12,000 or less. Grants support various initiatives including technology upgrades, collection development, and community outreach. Applications are reviewed biannually by a committee from the Texas Library Association, ensuring that funds are allocated to projects that significantly benefit local patrons. Libraries are encouraged to discuss their proposals in advance to align with funding priorities.

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

MWH Group Accounting Scholarship

The MWH Group Accounting Scholarship was established in 2017. The $1,000 award has the potential to be renewed for an additional year if grade requirements are met.

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

Carl T. Anderson Family Scholarship

The Carl T. Anderson Family Scholarship was opened in 2007 by Carl's daughters in his honor. The endowed scholarship fund supports graduating high school seniors from Wichita Falls ISD planning to attend Texas Christian University, for any field of study. Scholarship is renewable for up to 4 years depending on grades. 

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

Bullinger Family Texas A&M Scholarship

The Bullinger Family Texas A&M Scholarship was opened in 2019 by alumni, Hank and Kealey. The one-time $1,000 scholarship supports Clay and Archer County graduating seniors attending Texas A&M in College Station, for any field of study. Recipients must plan to attend full-time and be a U.S. citizen.

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.

The NIOSH Miner Safety and Health Training Program aims to enhance health and safety training for miners in the Western United States. With mining fatalities significantly higher than the national average, this initiative seeks to address critical training needs by developing effective programs, increasing qualified instructors, and ensuring compliance with existing safety guidelines. By focusing on culturally appropriate training methods and collaborative efforts with other agencies, the program aims to reduce injuries and fatalities in the mining sector.

The California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant aims to support public middle and high school sports programs facing funding challenges due to budget cuts. Established by California Casualty, this grant provides financial assistance for purchasing equipment and covering travel costs for competitions. Eligible applicants must be active employees of public schools and members of affiliated education associations. Awards cannot be used for individual student recognition or fundraising projects.