Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Texas

The Professional Development Partnerships for Early Childhood Education program, managed by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance the skills of early childhood trainers and instructional coaches. It offers extensive training and support through professional development opportunities, micro-credentials, and facilitated learning communities. This initiative seeks to ensure high-quality instruction for practicing early childhood educators, ultimately benefiting the educational outcomes of young learners across the state.

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 Elesa Crump Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund, managed by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors and current college students with documented disabilities from the Texas Panhandle. Recipients must enroll in Amarillo College or West Texas A&M University. The fund aims to enhance educational access and opportunities for individuals facing learning challenges, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to improving the quality of life in the region.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

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 Lloyd P. and Kathryn M. Hayes Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating seniors from select Amarillo high schools who rank in the top 15% of their class. Recipients can pursue any field of study at their chosen institution, provided they maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for deserving students in the Texas Panhandle, contributing to their academic and personal growth.

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 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 External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The Deaf Smith Electrical Scholarship, provided by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports students from specific Texas counties pursuing higher education at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants must be members or dependents of the Deaf Smith Electric Cooperative. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities and improve the quality of life for residents in the Texas Panhandle, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and support for local students.

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 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 Gulf Research Program's Science Policy Fellowship offers an opportunity for scientists to bridge the gap between science and policy, enhancing their skills while benefiting Gulf Coast communities. Over a year, fellows work with various agencies, gaining practical experience at the science-policy interface. This program provides a stipend, health allowance, and professional development support, fostering leadership and capacity building in environmental protection and public health. Eligible candidates include those with advanced degrees in relevant fields, ensuring a diverse, skilled cohort dedicated to impactful research.

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 Jake Jones Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating seniors from the Texas Panhandle's northern counties who exhibit integrity, ambition, and strong moral character. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate their ability to overcome challenges posed by learning disabilities, while also valuing loyalty to family and friends. This scholarship empowers students to pursue higher education, fostering their personal and academic growth.

The Jack B. Weinberger Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating seniors from the top 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle. Eligible students must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and plan to major in health care at any accredited college or university. This scholarship aims to foster future leaders in the health care sector while addressing the educational needs of the community in the Texas Panhandle.

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 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 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 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 Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Bob and Lanna Hatton Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, supports graduating high school seniors from the top 26 counties in the Texas Panhandle who plan to pursue a degree in Education. Recipients can attend any college or university of their choice, provided they maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher while in college. This scholarship aims to foster educational growth and community development in the region.

The Hillcrest Foundation Grant, established in 1958, supports Texas charitable organizations focused on education, health, and poverty relief. It prioritizes unique and essential projects that do not duplicate existing services, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $300,000. Most funding is directed to Dallas County and the surrounding areas, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to community support. Organizations receiving grants must adhere to specific eligibility criteria, ensuring effective use of resources for the greater good.

The W.P. & Bulah Luse Foundation, established in 1947, focuses on enhancing education, health, and human services for underserved populations, particularly in Dallas, Texas. The foundation provides one-year grants, encouraging organizations to apply after a two-year hiatus if previously funded. Special consideration is given to local charitable organizations that aim to improve the quality of life for residents in the Dallas area. This commitment to community support reflects the foundation's enduring legacy.

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 Benjamin Gimp Raffkind Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, provides financial support for graduating high school seniors in the top 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle. Eligible students must have a GPA of 80 or better and plan to attend Amarillo College or West Texas A&M University. This scholarship aims to empower local youth by facilitating their pursuit of higher education and addressing the educational needs of the community.