Best Grants for Community Centers in Texas

The HRMC Scholarship Grant Program grants funds on a yearly basis to local institutions (Amarillo College, Clarendon College, Frank Phillips Community College, Texas Tech University – Amarillo campus, and West Texas A&M University). The funds are allocated to scholarships for area students and professionals pursuing health care related education.

The mission of the Harrington Regional Medical Campus (HRMC) is to promote quality of life in the Texas Panhandle through exceptional healthcare, education, and research. One way HRMC works to fulfill this mission is to award annual grants to entities located in the HRMC campus as well as to nonprofits throughout the 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle with healthcare related programs and services that fit the HRMC mission. HRMC launched the HRMC Resident Grant Program, HRMC Scholarship Grant Program, and HRMC Community Health Grant Program in 2016. The intent of the grant programs is to improve the quality and accessibility of healthcare ultimately leading to an improved quality of life for residents of the top 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle.  

HRMC Resident Grant Program

The HRMC Resident Grant Program is for Medical Center campus resident nonprofit institutions and other facilities located at the Medical Center. Funds are allocated on a competitive grant basis for capital improvements and projects. Preference for funding will be given to Ronald McDonald House, Turn Center, Amarillo Botanical Gardens, Don Harrington Discovery Center, and Coffee Memorial Blood Center.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The NIDCD is offering funding to advance HIV/AIDS research, particularly focusing on areas related to communication disorders. This initiative supports low-risk clinical trials and encourages researchers to align their proposals with high priority topics identified by the NIH Office of AIDS Research. Applications must be submitted by the local deadline, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This opportunity aims to enhance understanding and treatment in this crucial health area.

The TCA Texas Arts Respond Performance Support grant aims to enhance Texas's creative economy by investing in arts activities. It provides funding for Texas-based artists and organizations to present performances and workshops in local communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and government units. The grant supports artistic fees for approved companies from the Texas Touring Roster, ensuring that all Texans can enjoy diverse artistic experiences. Applications must be submitted quarterly before the performance date.

The Alvin A. and Hattie Mae Bush Accounting Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors and current college students from the Texas Panhandle. Applicants must be majoring in Accounting and plan to attend Amarillo College, Texas Tech University, or West Texas A&M University. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for local students, fostering a brighter future for the community.

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 (TEA)

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.

Special Education Family Engagement and Outreach

This initiative is designed to provide programs, resources, and an overall strategy for fostering authentic collaboration among schools, families, and communities in Texas around topics in special education. By establishing strong internal processes with strategic and timely cross-communications, we will increase knowledge and understanding of special education services while improving buy-in and support from all stakeholders. 

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Standard's Corporate Giving Program emphasizes community support and employee engagement, reflecting its foundational mission to enhance financial well-being. Established in 1906, the program focuses on Healthy Communities, Disability and Empowerment, Cultural Development, and Education. With a funding range of $500 to $25,000, it aims to make a substantial impact in the lives of individuals and families facing challenges. The Standard Charitable Foundation, launched in 2006, further extends this commitment by supporting organizations that align with its philanthropic goals.

The Target Range Grant Program, offered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, aims to enhance public shooting facilities aligned with hunter education and shooting sports. This initiative not only promotes responsible firearm use but also supports regional development through partnerships and recreational opportunities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local agencies, with grants covering up to 90% of project costs. A minimum request of $150,000 is required, ensuring significant investment in community-focused shooting practices.

The Globe Life Texas Rangers Baseball and Softball Grant Program supports nonprofit baseball and softball initiatives across five states, including Texas and Arkansas. This program aims to enhance youth sports by providing funding for essential needs such as field renovations, equipment, and uniforms. Since 2012, it has awarded over $1.1 million to more than 150 organizations, ensuring children have access to the joy and community of sports. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations serving youth aged 18 and under.

The Gene and Jerry Jones Family Arlington Youth Foundation is committed to enhancing the lives of Arlington youth through significant financial contributions. They provide grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that focus on youth programs in areas like athletics, health, education, and the arts. Recently, a $1 million donation supported the North Texas Youth Education Town, which offers educational and recreational services. This initiative aims to create a sustainable impact on the community and support local youth for years to come.

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 Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

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.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) 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. TEA helps deliver education to more than 5 million students under the leadership of the commissioner of education. The TEA operational costs are supported by both state and federal funds.

The Texas Education Agency 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.

Pipeline to Leadership (P2L) Cohort 3 Grant

Program Description

Pipeline to Leadership (P2L) is technical assistance (TA) for school systems that address short- and long-term instructional needs by reimagining school staff roles and redesigning school schedules and compensation within their existing budget. Simultaneously, this service supports school systems as they strengthen educator pipelines and maximize the impact of the most effective teachers. 

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. 

ESC Behavior Position Pilot

Program Description

This program is being created to provide technical assistance to school systems, campuses, and teachers that have special education students experiencing behavioral difficulties that result in dangerous or unsafe learning environments for that student or others. The goal of this program is to ensure that infrastructure is in place to support the students before, during, and after they experience behavioral difficulties as well as provide support for the school system, teachers, and students who may be impacted by the behavior. The program is being established in response to TEC §29.010 (a-1) that states “…the agency may require a school district to obtain specialized technical assistance for a documented noncompliance issue or if data indicates that technical assistance is needed, such as an incident involving injury to staff or students by a student receiving special education services or data indicating an excessive number of restraints are used on students receiving special education services.”

The 2026-2028 Center for Strategic Compensation (CSC) Grant will support School Systems in developing and implementing strategic compensation systems, talent systems support, and other related strategic planning while utilizing funds obtained through participation in the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) as well as local district dollars. The Center for Strategic Compensation aims to support School Systems in obtaining an Enhanced TIA district designation and provide support to Education Service Centers (ESCs) to develop capacity in supporting School Systems to develop and implement strategic compensation systems.

The TX Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grants, administered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, provides funding to enhance outdoor recreational experiences across Texas. Since 1965, this program has supported communities in building parks, conserving resources, and developing trails. Grants cover up to 80% of project costs, with maximum awards of $300,000 for non-motorized and $500,000 for motorized projects. This initiative promotes environmental stewardship and fosters a connection to nature for all Texans.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Texas support eligible rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that jeopardize safe drinking water. Events qualifying as emergencies include droughts, floods, and disease outbreaks. The grants can fund water transmission lines and new water sources, with funding up to $1,000,000. These efforts aim to restore access to clean water and enhance local environments, ultimately benefiting rural households and businesses.

The Anna, Pierre, and Ephraim Block Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports Texas residents who are current high school seniors. This renewable scholarship covers tuition, fees, and educational expenses for students pursuing an Associate, Bachelor's, or Graduate degree. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain full-time enrollment with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Special consideration is given to those attending Texas colleges.

Texas Tutoring Support Grant

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) will grant funds to establish a single Education Service Center (ESC) tutoring hub. The ESC hub will hold an annual summit focusing on supports for tutoring best practices and implementation as outlined in TEC §28.0211, facilitate a cohort lead by a contracted organization in the fundamental components of outcomes-based contracting (OBC) implementation, and assist in the development of supports that can be used as examples for other school systems in implementation of OBC.

Direct Administrative Costs

TEA limits the amount of direct administrative costs for this grant program to no more than 5% of the total grant award.

Indirect Costs

For this grant program, the grantee may claim a maximum for allowable indirect costs equal to its current approved unrestricted indirect cost rate. 

With support from Toyota Motor North America, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce $250,000 in grant funding to make public lands more accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities. The 2026 grant program will focus on communities near Toyota Motor North America facilities and is restricted to 16 communities, as detailed below. 

Overview

Through the 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands grant, NEEF aims to:

• Increase the capacity of local organizations and government agencies to address mobility and accessibility considerations on public lands; and
• Improve the level of access, comfort, and enjoyment experienced by public lands visitors of all abilities, together with their families and friends.

The grant will provide up to $20,000 per grantee to increase physical or digital access, provide adaptive recreation equipment or programming, or perform accessibility assessments on public lands in communities near 16 Toyota Motor North America facilities.

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 Rural Health Facility Capital Improvement Program (CIP) in Texas supports rural public and non-profit hospitals in enhancing their facilities. Funded by a $50 million endowment from the tobacco settlement, the program facilitates capital improvements, new constructions, and equipment purchases. Award amounts can reach up to $100,000, with applicants needing to contribute a minimum of 25% in matching funds. This initiative aims to improve healthcare services in underserved rural areas.

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.