Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Texas

The Craft Artists Emergency Relief Grant provides $3,000 to U.S.-based individual craft artists aged 18 and older who are facing recent, unforeseen emergencies. Established by the Craft Emergency Relief Fund (CERF+) in 1985, this grant aims to empower artists during critical times, allowing them to use the funds as needed for recovery. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for artists in distress.

Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment

Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) was established to streamline the city's cultural efforts into one hub, combining all resources for cultural arts, public arts, heritage centers, heritage tourism, music, and special events. ACME strives to enhance coordination, improve services, and create synergistic opportunities to sustain and develop Austin’s rich creative ecosystem and places, ensuring Austin remains a global destination for creative experiences while honoring the city’s rich heritage.

Heritage Preservation Grant 

The Heritage Preservation Grant promotes tourism through historic preservation projects and activities rooted in local history and heritage at historic sites.

Grant funds support capital projects or heritage events that expand access to historic places and heritage resources and market the site's history to engage new audiences and tourists. All capital projects require a historic designation.  

Program goals include to increase Austin's heritage tourism; preserve and open access to historic spaces; bring local history to life through interpretation, activations, and storytelling; and support jobs in the creative economy. 

Capital Improvement Projects

Support capital improvement projects at historic sites – designated or eligible for designation that attract tourists. The site must be open, and its history must be actively marketed to tourists.

If awarded, all capital project proposals are required to be reviewed by the Historic Preservation Office, Architectural Review Committee (ARC), and/or the Historic Landmark Commission (HLC).  

Capital Improvement Project Types

• American Disabilities Act (ADA) exterior access
• Awning rehabilitation / repair
• Cast iron restoration / repair
• Door / window / screen / trim restoration/repair
• Façade elements
• Foundation stabilization
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installation / repair (does not require an exterior project proposal) (see pg. 202)
• Historic accessory structures
• Interior: Electrical Upgrades (compatible with the restoration-period character of the interior and the request must be submitted together with an exterior project proposal)
• Interior: Mechanical Upgrades (compatible with the restoration-period character of the interior and the request must be submitted together with an exterior project proposal)
• Interior: Flooring (must be submitted together with an exterior project proposal) see pg. 204)
• Interior: Safety Upgrades (compatible with the restoration-period character of the interior and the request must be submitted together with an exterior project proposal) (see pg. 202)
• Interior: Masonry (compatible with the restoration-period character of the interior and the request must be submitted together with an exterior project proposal)
• Masonry rehabilitation / repair
• Millwork rehabilitation / repair
• Paint (in kind; must match existing unless pre-approved)
• Professional services or consultants required to support the project, such as Preservation Architects, Interpretive Planners, Architectural Historians, and other professional services contracts to support the project, its long-term preservation, or historic designation
• Roof Repair
• Sign installation (on private property and must comply with Historic Sign Standards)

Capital Project Requirements

• Grounds must be accessible, open, and marketed to tourists with reasonable visitation hours
• Interior project proposals must be submitted together with an exterior project proposal
• In accordance with Texas Tax Code Ch 351, the proposal and application must meet the following two criteria: (1) The use must directly enhance and promote tourism and the hotel industry; (2) For historic preservation and restoration projects, the project must be: (A) at or in the immediate vicinity of convention center facilities or visitor information centers; or (B) located in the areas that are reasonably likely to be frequented by tourists
• Interior projects must include a sensitive treatment plan which emphasizes preserving significant historic features and materials while minimizing physical and visual impact as recommended by The Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties
• Maintain historic designation
• Projects must occur at a designated historic site or a contributing property within a designated historic district. Verify the historic designation of a site using the City of Austin Historic Property View Finder 
• Projects must occur at a site eligible for local, state, or national historic designation, or determined eligible for designation by the Texas Historical Commission. Designation must be completed within the agreement term
• Project management fee and project administrative expenses are allowed up to 10% of the grant award (not to exceed $20,000) for capital projects
• If awarded, projects must be reviewed and approved either by the Historic Preservation Office and/or the Historic Landmark Commission after a preliminary review by the Architectural Review Committee
• Projects that are preservation-related or history-focused and are actively promoted to tourists, hotel guests, and convention delegates to expand audiences and tourists
• Proposals on private property must include Owner Authorization with the application. Here is a link to the Owner Authorization Form. It can be used for historic public or private sites unless the managing City department gives other instructions.
• For projects on City owned park land please upload your approved Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) Project Feasibility Form. This form is due to APR by July 28 for Heritage Events on City owned Parkland. This is to ensure that you receive the approved form in time to submit with your application.  
• Proposals must include one complete bid package (see definition) with bids from a contractor, (Preservation) Architect, subcontractor and vendors.  
• Proposals must include recommendations from an Architect or equivalent professional based on The Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and/or the City of Austin Historic Design Standards
• Proposals must adhere to City of Austin Historic Design Standards and/or The Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties
• Proposed historic site may require an on-site assessment or review
• Proposals with City-owned sites must be approved by the managing department before applying for a grant
• Properties determined to be eligible for historic designation. If a property is not designated at the time of the application, the applicant must provide a determination of eligibility with the application and sites must be historically designated by the end of the grant agreement term
• Applicant must include marketing expenses in their budget proposal

The Sherry Wagner-Henry Board Fellowship, initiated by the United States Institute for Theatre Technology (USITT), offers a unique opportunity for emerging leaders in the theatre and entertainment industry. This 12-18 month program connects Fellows with experienced board members to enhance their professional skills. Participants gain access to board resources, attend meetings, and receive support for conferences, all valued at approximately $3,000 to $3,500. Ideal for individuals with 2-5 years of experience, this Fellowship fosters growth and leadership in nonprofit governance.

The Arthritis Foundation's Clinical Fellowship RFP aims to address the rheumatology workforce shortage by inviting applications from institutions with clinical training programs. It encourages innovative training approaches to prepare future rheumatologists for the evolving needs of the arthritis community. Funding includes $150,000 for a two-year adult fellowship, $225,000 for a three-year pediatric fellowship, and $300,000 for a four-year Med-Peds fellowship, all designed to enhance access to specialized care.

Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment

Austin Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment (ACME) was established to streamline the city's cultural efforts into one hub, combining all resources for cultural arts, public arts, heritage centers, heritage tourism, music, and special events. ACME strives to enhance coordination, improve services, and create synergistic opportunities to sustain and develop Austin’s rich creative ecosystem and places, ensuring Austin remains a global destination for creative experiences while honoring the city’s rich heritage.

Heritage Preservation Grant 

The Heritage Preservation Grant promotes tourism through historic preservation projects and activities rooted in local history and heritage at historic sites.

Grant funds support capital projects or heritage events that expand access to historic places and heritage resources and market the site's history to engage new audiences and tourists. All capital projects require a historic designation.  

Program goals include to increase Austin's heritage tourism; preserve and open access to historic spaces; bring local history to life through interpretation, activations, and storytelling; and support jobs in the creative economy. 

Heritage Events 

Support proposals that expand access to historic places and heritage experiences by highlighting local history and storytelling, connecting communities, and drawing both residents and tourists at historic sites. While bids are not required for Heritage Events, a proposed budget breakdown is required as part of the application process.  

Sites must be historically designated (or eligible for historic designation), occur within and approved by the City Council as a heritage district or corridor, or historically significant.

• Events must include historic research and highlight the history of the site
• Applicants must identify a specific location, with or without a historic designation, and explain why it’s historically important and how it connects to the project or activities
• Proposals must describe the specific historic event, person, community, group, or aspect of city history that your project will highlight and how the project promotes the tourism and hotel industries. (See Historical Associations Category in CoA Historic Zoning Application)
• Applicants must explain how the proposal will uncover untold stories associated with the location
• Proposals must include the development of a printed and digital itinerary, a site map, and a listing of nearby historic museums or heritage sites

Heritage Events WITH Local, State, or National Designated Historic Location

• Project must occur at a designated historic site, historic district, or within official City of Austin heritage districts

Heritage Event Project Types

• Events, festivals, or programs at a historic designated location or within a historic district and marketed regionally, nationally, or internationally
• Heritage, historic, or interpretive history-focused exhibits
• Projects or activities in heritage districts with historic assets previously approved by the City Council (includes the Red River Cultural District, African American Cultural Heritage District, and the 5th Street Mexican American Heritage Corridor)
• Production of special events and programs that highlight the history of the site
• Tour development: historic, heritage, legacy business, and natural resources 

Heritage Event Requirements

• Activities must occur in a Council District or Extraterritorial Jurisdiction
• For projects on City owned park land please upload your approved Austin Parks and Recreation (APR) Project Feasibility Form. This form is due to APR by July 28 for Heritage Events on City owned Parkland. This is to ensure that you receive the approved form in time to submit with your application.
• For projects planned for Austin History Center (AHC) please use this form. This form is due to AHC by August 4 for Heritage Events at AHC.
• In accordance with Texas Tax Code Ch 351, the proposal and application must meet the following two criteria: (1) The use must directly enhance and promote tourism and the hotel industry; (2) For historic preservation and restoration projects, the project must be: (A) at or in the immediate vicinity of convention center facilities or visitor information centers; or (B) located in the areas that are reasonably likely to be frequented by tourists
• Obtain and maintain project insurance throughout the agreement term
• Preservation projects and programs that highlight storytelling and invite tourists and convention visitors to explore historic sites and museums
• Projects must be open to the public, serve the public interest, and be actively promoted to Austin residents, visitors, and tourists, including hours of operation or visitation on the website
• Proposals at City-owned site must gain approval through the managing department
• Proposals must complete the budget table in the application
• Review and acquire necessary permits through Austin Build + Connect (AB+C)
• Projects that are preservation-related or history-focused and are actively promoted to tourists, hotel guests, and convention delegates to expand audiences and tourists

The Society of Toxicology offers the Supplemental Training for Education Program (STEP), which provides up to $1,000 to support graduate students in toxicology seeking additional training to address skill gaps. Eligible applicants must be PhD students who have completed coursework and passed comprehensive exams. The funding covers workshops or courses not available through their graduate program, enhancing career prospects in toxicology.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

George F. and Asha W. McMillan Scholarship

This scholarship is to provide financial support to an individual in order for him or her to receive a degree in Christian education or related studies or to advance his or her Christian vocation.

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

Lewis G. and Margaret R. Curtis Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Lewis and Margaret, who established the Lewis G. and Margaret R. Curtis Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. Margaret Curtis wished to establish two scholarships; one for females pursuing careers in nursing or health care careers and the other for a male pursuing a vocational, technical or trade career scholarship. Mrs. Curtis, a nurse in the area, provided for this fund in her will in memory of her husband and herself. She stated that the income be used to award scholarships in two fields, nursing and vocational training.

Kids' Chance of Massachusetts offers scholarships to children of workers who have been severely injured or killed in workplace accidents. This 501(c)(3) non-profit organization awards funds based on financial need, with applications accepted annually. Eligible students must be dependents aged 17-22, enrolled full-time in post-secondary education, and demonstrate financial need. Renewal applications are available for previous recipients who maintain satisfactory academic progress.

The Fiscal Year 2026 Flood Mitigation Assistance program aims to enhance flood mitigation funding delivery, focusing on the needs of disaster survivors. This federal initiative, managed by FEMA, provides essential funds to states, territories, and local governments to mitigate flood risks and reduce repetitive damage to properties insured under the National Flood Insurance Program. The program supports various activities designed to lower the financial exposure of the NFIP while promoting community resilience against flooding.

The Manny Heaton Memorial Scholarship honors the legacy of Manny Heaton, a vibrant individual whose life was tragically cut short in April 2023. Established by his father, Tom Heaton, this annual scholarship supports the children of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana (TMMI) employees. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.0, planning to attend college or technical school, reflecting Manny's dedication and resilience.

Community Collaboration Challenge

Applications for the 2026 Community Collaboration Challenge are now open! With support from the Leon Lowenstein Foundation, the Challenge provides $5,000 – $10,000 awards to communities and is designed to support collaboration that expands and pilots evidence-based K-12 student supports in the form of high-impact tutoring, mentoring, student success coaching, postsecondary transition coaching, and/or wraparound/integrated student supports.

The American Musicological Society offers Affiliate Grants to support study group activities with up to $500 in funding, covering no more than 50% of total costs. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines on August 1 and January 15. Only elected representatives of AMS study groups can apply, and groups may receive funding only once in a twelve-month period. Funds must be utilized within a year of the award date.

The National Scleroderma Foundation's New Investigator Grant aims to support emerging researchers dedicated to scleroderma studies. This three-year grant, totaling $200,000, encourages applicants with doctoral degrees and postdoctoral experience. Eligible candidates are invited to submit proposals that may lead to further research funding. The grant emphasizes innovative research approaches while providing essential financial support for early-career investigators. Note that the grant does not cover certain costs, ensuring focused investment in research advancement.

The Igor Gorin Memorial Award, established in 1993 by the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, honors the legacy of Igor Gorin by supporting aspiring vocalists. With $382,000 awarded to 49 young talents, this fund provides unrestricted financial assistance for coaching, travel, and auditions. The 2026 award offers up to $12,000, aimed at those overcoming financial barriers to pursue operatic careers, ensuring that exceptional vocalists can thrive in their artistic journeys.

The Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems Centers aim to enhance TBI rehabilitation through evidence-based research. These centers focus on generating knowledge to improve health, community participation, and employment outcomes for TBI individuals. Funded by the US HHS Administration for Community Living, the grants support site-specific and collaborative research, contributing to a longitudinal database. Each center can receive varying funding amounts, depending on eligible database participants, with a project timeline of 60 months comprising five 12-month budget periods.

The AMS Explore Travel Grant supports current or recent undergraduate students to present 10-minute papers at the 2025 AMS-SMT Joint Annual Meeting in Minneapolis. Participants will engage in cohort activities, receive constructive feedback, and enjoy a supportive conference environment. Accepted applicants will benefit from complimentary registration, a $350 travel grant, and shared lodging in the conference hotel, enhancing their academic experience and involvement in the AMS community.

The Alvin H. Johnson AMS 50 Fellowship supports PhD candidates in music scholarship during their final dissertation year. Awarded based on academic merit, it offers a $25,000 stipend for full-time study, with no tuition coverage. Applicants must be registered doctoral students in good standing at North American universities, having completed all requirements except the dissertation. The fellowship emphasizes timely completion, discouraging extensive employment during the term, and is non-renewable.

Welcome to the Greater Houston Community Foundation Scholarship Application Site!   

The Greater Houston Community Foundation (GHCF) administers a variety of unique scholarship funds that grant over $5.7 million annually to college students. The scholarship funds have been established by thoughtful and generous donors and each has a unique set of eligibility criteria and award structure.

Scholarship Application Info:  

Greater Houston Community Foundation administers over 60 different scholarship programs, each with differing eligibility requirements. Eligibility for some scholarships may be dependent on employment, course of study, high school, or college. 

William A. Brookshire Foundation Scholarship

The William A. Brookshire Foundation Scholarship benefits dependents of S&B Engineers and Constructors employees.

About the Scholarship Award:

Multiple scholarships awarded for the 2026-27 academic year. Award amount varies by college/degree type:

• Bachelor's or Graduate Degree: Up to $15,000
• Associate's Degree: $5,500
• Students may reapply as long as they meet eligibility requirements

What can this scholarship be used for?

The scholarship will be mailed directly to the student's college to be used towards tuition, required academic fees, and/or book expenses.

Are there any requirements I must meet if I am selected as a scholarship recipient?

• Recipients must attend an accredited university, community college, or trade school in the United States.
• Recipients must enroll in the following hours for both the fall and spring semesters (or be enrolled full-time according to your school if it is on a different system) unless in the last semester prior to graduation
  • Minimum of 12 hours per semester for undergraduate students
  • Minimum of 9 hours per semester for graduate students
• Recipients must submit college enrollment information online through GHCF Scholar the summer before the academic year begins. This information is required in order for the scholarship check to be mailed to the student's college. Instructions will be included in the student's award letter.

The Suzanne G. Cusick Professional Development Fund, offered by the American Musicological Society, provides $500 grants to support low-income scholars in music and sound studies. These grants aim to enhance professional development for independent scholars and contingent faculty who lack access to such opportunities. The fund emphasizes equitable participation, particularly for historically under-represented groups, ensuring a diverse range of recipients can benefit from this vital support.

The Robert and Jenilie Palla Education Fund offers scholarships to graduating WCPS seniors who have participated in Cross Country and/or Track & Field Teams. This initiative, supported by the Community Foundation of Washington County, Maryland, aims to honor local students and encourage their academic pursuits. With a commitment to enhancing the community's quality of life, the fund exemplifies the importance of education and athletics in shaping future leaders.

The AWARE Fund Grant, established by the Dallas Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations dedicated to combating Alzheimer’s disease in the North Texas area. With over $13 million raised since 1989, AWARE offers crucial funding for programs, research, and resources for caregivers. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations in good financial health, with grants available up to $50,000. This initiative emphasizes the importance of community support in the ongoing fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

The William F. Holmes / Frank D’Accone Dissertation Fellowship in Opera Studies, awarded by the American Musicological Society, supports dissertation research in opera studies for graduate students. Offering a stipend of $25,000, this fellowship is based on academic merit and aims to facilitate full-time study. Recipients may opt for a non-stipendiary award to allow more funding for others. Selection occurs in spring, with announcements made in summer.

The Athene Charitable Foundation focuses on corporate social responsibility through community involvement, aiming to create positive social impacts in education, health, human services, and the environment. Their initiatives include partnerships, employee volunteering, and donations aligned with their mission. They prioritize organizations that support diversity and inclusion while ensuring compliance with their non-discrimination policies. Eligible entities must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or equivalent, enhancing community welfare where Athene employees live and work.

The Saint James School Scholarship Fund provides essential financial assistance to deserving students in the greater Washington County area. Established by local families and organizations, this fund aims to honor individuals and promote education. With over 100 scholarships available through the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, it supports both high school graduates and non-traditional students pursuing continuing education. This initiative strengthens the community and fosters educational opportunities for all.

The Ross Merrill Award for Outstanding Commitment to the Preservation and Care of Collections recognizes North American institutions demonstrating exceptional dedication to conservation. This award highlights organizations that engage in significant outreach, involve conservation professionals, and show a commitment to community education regarding the importance of preserving cultural heritage. While no monetary prize accompanies the award, it serves as a prestigious acknowledgment of exemplary conservation efforts. Nominations are encouraged from both inside and outside organizations.

The Robert and Mable Lipscomb Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations that provide essential medical devices such as eyeglasses and hearing aids to the visually and hearing impaired in West Texas and Southern New Mexico. This foundation primarily funds nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Applications from individuals are not accepted, ensuring that support is directed to established charitable entities.