Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Texas

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Texas provide essential funding to qualified organizations for local self-help housing projects. This initiative supports very-low- and low-income families in constructing their own homes, fostering community collaboration. Eligible organizations include government non-profits and federally recognized tribes, while funds cannot be used for direct construction labor or purchasing property. This program plays a vital role in enhancing housing options in rural areas.

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 National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

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 Texas Education Agency (TEA) 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.

Humanities Texas

Program Description

The 89th Texas Legislature funds the Humanities Texas Teacher Institute Program to provide training and support to teachers in their first or second year of service in geographic areas with low student achievement on state assessments.

Special Education Leadership Impact Series

The Special Education Leadership Impact Series will empower Texas school and district leaders, beginning with Special Education Directors, to implement special education requirements with fidelity and to build sustainable systems that improve outcomes for students with disabilities. Anchored in the Special Education Performance Diagnostic (SPD) framework, the series provides flexible, scalable content (self-paced asynchronous courses, facilitation decks, and real-world application activities) developed through iterative, stakeholder engaged cycles. 

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The program will engage internal TEA teams, Education Service Center (ESC) Liaisons, and district/campus leaders to gather feedback during content development. This collaborative approach ensures relevance and alignment with TEA initiatives. The project prioritizes alignment with TEA resources, leverage existing content, and mitigate risk through staggered rollouts outlined by landscape analysis. Participating districts will demonstrate measurable improvements in compliance practices, data literacy, program quality, and leadership capacity.

Across Texas, district leaders face increasing expectations to ensure compliance with IDEA and state requirements while simultaneously improving academic and behavioral outcomes for students with disabilities.

• Total Funding Available $425,000.00 

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The Raftelis Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a consulting career in water utilities. With a value of $5,000, this scholarship aims to foster relationships with diverse, promising students who demonstrate leadership and strong academic performance. Applicants from various academic backgrounds, including business and finance, are encouraged to apply, emphasizing initiative and a desire to contribute positively to the community.

The M D Anderson Foundation is a Houston-based philanthropic organization that supports medical care, scientific research, and community initiatives. Established to honor Monroe Dunaway Anderson, it provides significant funding to enhance healthcare, biomedical research, and education. The Foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate strong leadership and long-term impact, focusing on improving health outcomes and community infrastructure in Texas. Its legacy includes the ongoing support of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, a leader in cancer treatment and research.

The Wold Foundation Grant, established in 1985, aims to support charitable, scientific, literary, and educational projects primarily benefiting Wyoming citizens and youth. It prioritizes initiatives in education, human services, cultural activities, healthcare, and scientific endeavors that promote conservation and outdoor recreation. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) classified and operate in the U.S. The foundation does not fund individuals or projects that discriminate based on sex, age, or religion.

The Ladd & Katherine Hancher Library Foundation Grant supports public libraries serving populations of 50,000 or less in Texas. Grants range from $2,000 to $40,000 and prioritize projects that contribute educationally to the community. However, funding is not available for operating expenses or salaries. Libraries must be accredited and cannot receive grants for two consecutive years. This initiative encourages unique library vernacular in all applications.

The Alvah H. and Wyline P. Chapman Foundation offers grants to support charitable, educational, and community-focused initiatives, primarily in Florida and Georgia. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that address children's welfare, education, multicultural understanding, substance abuse prevention, and homelessness. Grants typically do not exceed $15,000, and proposals must be endorsed by a Foundation Director. Interested parties should submit a Letter of Inquiry for consideration.

The Local Accountability Systems is a district-wide initiative through which districts and open-enrollment charter schools develop a plan to evaluate the performance of their campuses locally. Local Accountability Systems seek to engage the community and district in establishing locally relevant accountability measures, provide parents, families, and communities with detail information about local school performance and progress over time, and continuously improve student performance and preparedness for post-secondary success. 

The Episcopal Health Foundation of Dallas provides annual grants to support parishes, schools, and non-profit organizations within the Diocese of Dallas. Focus areas include food insecurity, homelessness, poverty alleviation, and health services. Eligible organizations must operate within the diocese's geographic boundaries and align with its Christian mission. Grants aim to strengthen communities through innovative programs that address basic human needs and improve lives. Applications must meet specific criteria and deadlines to be considered.

 Virtual and Hybrid Program Accelerator ESC Grant

The Virtual and Hybrid Program Accelerator (VHPA) enables school districts and open-enrollment school systems to design and launch high-quality virtual and hybrid programs or campuses, as defined under Texas Education Code (TEC) Chapter 30B.

The Virtual and Hybrid Program Accelerator (VHPA) enables school districts and open-enrollment school systems to design and launch high-quality virtual and hybrid programs or campuses, as defined under Texas Education Code (TEC) Chapter 30B. The goal of the program is to establish schools that are intentionally structured to achieve A or B accountability ratings and deliver rigorous, engaging instruction tailored to meet the diverse needs of students across Texas. Through VHPA, school systems will receive funding and technical assistance (TA) to develop flexible, personalized learning models that support students requiring adaptable education pathways. The program also enables school systems to implement innovative staffing strategies, expand course offerings, and increase access to high-quality instruction statewide. VHPA is a two-year program. By the end of the first year, participating school districts and open-enrollment school systems must either launch a full-time virtual or hybrid program or apply for authorization to operate a full-time virtual or hybrid campus that will operate in the 2027– 2028 school year. School systems that meet all engagement and activity requirements in Year 1, may use this participation to satisfy the planning year requirement for virtual and hybrid campuses outlined in Senate Bill 569. 

Grant activities include providing technical assistance to refine high-quality virtual or hybrid learning experiences that equip students for college, career, or the military. Support includes establishing highly effective virtual and hybrid classes, aligning staffing models with professional development for virtual teaching/learning, and enabling strong decision-making on technology and operations systems (e.g., learning management system, attendance). School systems in the program will also use iterative practices to analyze data to ensure that all students can access high-quality, grade-level instruction and engage in cohort-style workshops to learn about best practices from school systems across Texas.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The Texas Commission on the Arts (TCA) offers the TCA Texas Arts Creates 5 Grant to advance Texas's creative economy. This grant supports Government Local Arts Agencies and Local Arts Agencies with operational funding up to 25% of the previous year's cash operating budget. New organizations can apply only in odd-numbered years. The grant aims to foster a vibrant arts community in Texas, contributing to economic development and cultural tourism.

The ESC Perkins Technical Assistance Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, supports Education Service Centers (ESC) in achieving key objectives related to federal grant compliance and technical assistance. Funding of $10,000 is available for objectives 1 and 2, while $20,000 is designated for all four objectives. This initiative aims to enhance educational outcomes by providing necessary resources and training for ESC staff, thus fostering better compliance and support for local educational agencies.

The Open Education Resources (OER) Reviewer Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance instructional materials through rigorous review and feedback. This initiative supports school systems, parents, and community members in evaluating OER products, ensuring they adhere to Texas educational standards. The project will focus on diverse materials for various educational levels, including advanced math and integrated learning resources, fostering continuous improvement in the quality of education across Texas.

The TCA Texas Arts Create 4 Grant aims to strengthen Texas' creative economy by providing multi-year operational support to established arts organizations with budgets exceeding $5 million. Organizations can request up to 25% of their last completed year's cash operating budget. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt nonprofits or government entities, incorporated in Texas, and must have confirmed eligibility status with the TCA. The grant promotes sustainability and diversity within Texas' arts community.

The Luling Foundation's Healthcare Scholarship Grant offers $2,000 to students pursuing healthcare-related degrees at Texas colleges. This award is intended for residents of Caldwell, Gonzales, or Guadalupe Counties who demonstrate a solid academic and conduct record. The scholarship is non-renewable and will support students during their freshman year, requiring enrollment in at least twelve semester hours. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, ensuring access to quality education in healthcare.

The Texas Arts Create 3 Grant, offered by the Texas Commission on the Arts, aims to bolster Texas's creative economy by supporting established arts organizations with budgets between $1 million and $5 million. This program provides multi-year operational support, allowing organizations to request funding of up to 25% of their last completed year's cash operating budget. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt nonprofits or government entities incorporated in Texas.

The TCA Texas Arts Create 1 Grant, offered by the Texas Commission on the Arts, supports established arts organizations and college arts institutions with budgets between $50,000 and $1 million. This multi-year grant aims to enhance the creative economy of Texas by providing operational support up to 25% of the last completed year's cash operating budget. Organizations must meet specific eligibility criteria, including nonprofit status and compliance with federal regulations.

The Abilene Regional Medical Center Auxiliary Scholarship Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Abilene, aims to support healthcare professionals in enhancing their skills and obtaining relevant degrees. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to addressing educational needs within the community. Preference is given to Abilene Regional Employees who possess a certification in the healthcare field. The fund exemplifies a collaborative effort to foster a well-trained healthcare workforce in Abilene.

The Steven Weinberg Research Award, presented by the Texas Section of the American Physical Society, recognizes outstanding research in physics by graduate students. Nominees must have presented their research at a Texas APS meeting within the last two years. The award includes a plaque and $1000, emphasizing excellence and potential impact in the scientific community. Nominations can be made by advisors or qualified nominators, and the recipient is typically required to attend the award presentation at the Fall meeting.

The Texas Academy of Science offers the Annual Student Research Award Competition, providing financial support to students in three categories: PhD, M.S., and B.S./B.A. Awards are $2,000 for first place, $1,500 for second, and $1,000 for third. Eligibility includes membership in the Texas Academy and conducting independent research projects in math, science, or science education. Out-of-state students conducting research in Texas are also eligible. Literature reviews are not accepted.

The South-Central Section of the Geological Society of America provides competitive research grants for undergraduate students from institutions in Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, and parts of Mexico. Eligible students must be members of the Geological Society of America and are expected to manage funds responsibly, submitting a report after their research. This initiative supports the development of future geoscientists by fostering research opportunities in the region.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) offers the Intervention Best Practices (TIER) grant to support school systems, education service centers, and nonprofit organizations in developing evidence-based intervention strategies. This program aims to enhance the capacity of educational institutions to implement a comprehensive framework that integrates differentiated instruction, promoting academic, behavioral, and social success for all students throughout Texas.