Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Texas

The Annie Lee Robbins Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance the lives of Navarro County citizens. Established in honor of Annie Lee Robbins, who dreamed of a senior activity center, this grant prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations focusing on arts, education, and human services. Preference is given to projects that directly benefit Navarro County, ensuring that her legacy of community support continues to thrive.

The purpose of this grant is to produce and maintain resources, professional development, and implementation supports that, when used by educators and families of students with significant cognitive disabilities and/or complex needs, result in students’ academic and functional advancement and progress on appropriately rigorous individualized goals. This grant will be tasked with the development and dissemination of the tools and supports necessary to equip educators and parents to implement instructional practices, interventions, and other high-yield strategies that are proven to be effective in meeting the diverse academic and functional needs of students with complex needs. 

The Jane A. Rhodes Young Life Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, supports graduating seniors from Abilene, Cooper, or Wylie High Schools who actively participated in Young Life. This scholarship aims to assist students in pursuing higher education at public Texas universities, ensuring that they have the opportunity to further their academic dreams while celebrating their community involvement.

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. 

AIA WF Architecture College Student Scholarship

The AIA WF Architecture College Student Scholarship fund was opened at WFACF in 2024, by the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects. It is for graduates of the local area pursuing a degree in architecture entering their sophomore year of college, with preference for students intending to return to our area. There are (2) one-time $2,000 scholarships available for students attending Texas A&M, Prairie View A&M, Texas Tech, University of Houston, UT Arlington, UT Austin, UT San Antonio, or Oklahoma State. 

The Greater Texas Foundation's Islander Scholars Program offers financial assistance and support to Texas ECHS graduates transitioning to TAMU-CC. With a focus on underserved students, the program provides scholarships up to $2,000 per year for three years, along with ongoing academic, social, and emotional support. Each cohort accepts 40 students, ensuring personalized guidance through college, including mentorship and professional staff networking, to foster successful degree completion.

The Additional Days School Year Planning and Execution Program (ADSY PEP) is a voluntary, three-year grant initiative that provides comprehensive support to school districts and open-enrollment charter schools in the design and sustainability of high-quality, evidence-based ADSY programs. Through targeted professional development and technical assistance, ADSY PEP supports implementation of either the ADSY Full Year or ADSY Summer model. ADSY PEP is intended to help LEAs strategically plan, launch, and refine extended learning opportunities that are responsive to student needs and aligned with local priorities.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Ed and Judy Grabber Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund, managed by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from the top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle who plan to major in Agriculture or Education. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and can attend any institution, with a requirement to maintain a GPA of 2.5 in college. This scholarship aims to foster educational success in vital fields.

The Sherilyn A. Willis, MD Medical Scholarship, established by the East Texas Communities Foundation, aims to support medical students enrolled or accepted in Texas colleges. This scholarship reflects a commitment to education and is designed for those pursuing a career in medicine. Financial need is not a consideration for applicants. The scholarship is available for one year, providing essential support for students dedicated to their academic and professional goals.

The Jackson Huse Scholarship, offered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors in Texas attending any college. This scholarship is uniquely designed for students who have experienced the loss of a sibling due to a terminal illness or accident. Financial need is not a consideration, and the scholarship provides support for one year. It reflects the Foundation's commitment to empowering students through education and honoring their personal experiences.

The Dr. Carolyn Ghazal Dental Assistant Scholarships, offered by the Pacific Dental Services Foundation, provide financial aid of up to $5,000 for eligible dental assistant students. Applicants must be over 18, U.S. citizens or legal residents, and enrolled in a qualifying program. The scholarship emphasizes mentorship and training, supporting the next generation of dental assistants. Awards are based on financial need and application quality, with multiple cycles each year to support aspiring professionals.

The Hopper Prize, offered by the Texas Commission on the Arts, invites artists and photographers worldwide to apply for Fall 2025 awards totaling $13,000. With increased prize amounts of $4,500 for two winners and four additional awards of $1,000, this opportunity provides significant financial support. The application fee is $40, and selected artists will gain exposure through a shortlist and online platforms, connecting their work with a broad audience of art professionals.

The Heather Nicole Moseley Memorial Scholarship is designed for college students from the Texas Panhandle pursuing degrees in Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or Sports and Exercise Science. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and intend to seek advanced degrees at specific Texas institutions. The scholarship aims to support students dedicated to improving healthcare in their communities while promoting educational advancement.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The Brandy Lee Leard Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports high school seniors and college students from the Texas Panhandle who are parents or expectant parents. This scholarship provides up to $1,500 per semester for trade/vocational schools and up to $3,500 for accredited colleges/universities. Eligible applicants must maintain a 2.5 GPA and complete the Foundation's General Scholarship Application. This initiative aims to improve educational opportunities for young parents in the community.

The 2025-2026 ESC School Improvement Facilitation Grant aims to enhance the capacity of Education Service Centers (ESCs) to provide sustained support to Title I school systems and campuses labeled for Comprehensive Support and Improvement. This grant focuses on facilitating ESF Diagnostics, offering technical assistance for plan submissions, and implementing crucial leadership instructional practices and performance management structures to foster educational improvement.

The Dalton & Betty Jones Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Rusk County, Texas, pursuing a bachelor's degree. Established to empower students, the scholarship considers financial need with a FASFA requirement and offers renewable support. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to educational advancement, helping deserving individuals achieve their academic dreams and contribute positively to their communities.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

The Scanlan Foundation Grant aims to foster a culture of vocations within the Roman Catholic Church in Texas. By focusing on priesthood, religious life, and strong families, the foundation supports initiatives in marriage preparation, Catholic education, and evangelization. This grant seeks to enhance access to faith-based resources, ensuring that individuals are equipped to live out their vocations while contributing to a vibrant community of faith across the state.

The purpose of the State Facilities Incentive Technical Assistance Grant is to provide high-quality facilities support to Texas charter schools and support State Facilities Incentive Grant (SFIG) grantees. The grant activities include providing technical assistance for charter school leaders on smart decision-making related to facilities and growth. This support aims to increase expertise in facilities planning, financing and operations. Grant activities also include supporting SFIG grantees through monitoring and evaluation to ensure awarded SFIG funds are appropriately stewarded. 

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

McCoy Scholarship Fund

The McCoy Scholarship Fund was opened in early 2002, making it one of our most tenured scholarship funds that is still active. The McCoy Scholarship was created to support graduating seniors of Wichita County high schools as they pursue any undergraduate degree at a public Texas university or college. The McCoy Scholarship is one of our largest scholarships each year, awarding $10,000 per academic year with the potential to be renewed for up to four years based on cumulative GPA. Must be U.S. citizen.

The Elizabeth Huth Coates Charitable Foundation Grant supports charitable, educational, and scientific purposes primarily in Texas, with a focus on Bexar County. Established in 1992 by Elizabeth Huth Coates Maddux, the foundation emphasizes the arts, private educational institutions, and medical research. Grants are available annually to 501(c)(3) organizations, continuing her legacy of philanthropy and community enhancement in San Antonio, where her contributions are evident throughout the city.

The BCBSTX Sponsorships program supports organizations focused on health and wellness in Texas, offering sponsorships ranging from $250 to $5,000. This initiative encourages community engagement through events like health fairs and runs. While sponsorships do not require 501(c)(3) status, priority is given to projects benefiting Texas residents. Organizations may receive either a grant or a sponsorship, but not both, ensuring a wider reach for community investment.

The Frederick Michael Nachman Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Smith County or Bellaire High School, who plan to attend the University of Texas at Austin and major in business. Founded in 1989, the Foundation aims to empower local students through educational funding, reflecting a commitment to enhancing community growth. The scholarship requires FAFSA documentation and offers one year of financial support, underscoring the importance of education in achieving personal and professional aspirations.

The Elevance Health Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to address significant challenges in mental health and substance use disorders. With a commitment of up to $90 million over three years, the Foundation seeks partnerships with nonprofits to enhance treatment access, promote prevention strategies, and alleviate loneliness among affected individuals. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions and measurable outcomes, targeting both national and local programs, particularly in states with pressing health disparities.

The Slave 2 Nothing Foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing human trafficking and substance abuse in states with In-N-Out Burger locations. Their mission is to empower individuals to overcome enslavement by providing essential resources and support. The foundation follows a rigorous vetting process for grant applications, emphasizing the importance of impactful solutions and community engagement. They encourage eligible nonprofits to apply annually, promoting sustainable support for vital services aimed at healing and freedom.