Best Grants for Teachers Continuing Education in Texas

About Us

Texas A&M Forest Service provides statewide leadership and technical assistance to ensure trees, forests and related natural resources are sustained for the benefit of all. The agency supports the state’s incident response capability, protecting against wildfire and responding to a range of all-hazard incidents. 

DOD Firefighter Property Program

The U.S. Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program provides excess military property to emergency service providers, with ownership of the equipment passed from the federal government to the recipient. Fire departments and other emergency response providers in the state of Texas may apply for assistance under the FFP Program.

Departments that received a 2.5-ton cargo, 5-ton cargo, or a tractor style DoD FFP truck on or after Sept. 1, 2015 may be eligible for a slip-on unit grant to assist in converting the truck into a fire apparatus. The FFP slip-on unit program element reimbursement rate is set at 100% of the actual cost, not to exceed $45,000 in grant assistance. Receiving fire departments are responsible for other conversion costs required to bring the unit into service, which will serve as the department’s in-kind contribution.

Due to the high demand for vehicles and limited resources, there is not a standing inventory.

About

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs is the state agency responsible for affordable housing, community and energy assistance programs, colonia activities, and regulation of the state's manufactured housing industry. The Department currently administers $2 billion through for-profit, nonprofit, and local government partnerships to deliver local housing and community-based opportunities and assistance to Texans in need. The overwhelming majority of the Department's resources are derived from mortgage revenue bond financing and refinancing, federal grants, and federal tax credits.

All TDHCA divisions regularly interact with other state and federal agencies, the state legislature, housing and community development organizations, community assistance agencies, lending institutions, real estate interests, the media, and other public sources.

Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) - Texas

The State of Texas CSBG State Application and Plan (the State Plan) is approved by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs Board of Directors and submitted to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The State Plan describes the State's activities and the proposed use of CSBG funds and distribution of pass-through funds, state administration funds, and state discretionary funds.

The Texas Music Office (TMO) is a division within the Office of the Governor's Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office. The TMO promotes the development of the music industry in the state by informing members of that industry and the public about the resources available in the state for music production. The TMO serves as an information clearinghouse for the Texas music industry and assists more than 15,000 patrons each year. The TMO is accepting applications for grant projects that will benefit music-related education and community programs sponsored by a nonprofit organization based in Texas.

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.

Introduction

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal1 and state grant awards to its subgrantees2 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.

Program Purpose

The purpose of this grant is to enable an Institute of Higher Education (IHE) to conduct an academic review and comparability of solicited instruments for kindergarten through grade three that assess students’ foundational literacy skills and foundational numeracy skills. The IHE will provide neutral, research-based recommendations on instruments and create a resource to help school systems understand approved options and select those that best meet their needs. As a result of this grant, school systems will use this resource to compare approved instruments, understand what skills are assessed and how they are measured, and examine key similarities and differences across instruments. The resource is intended to support school systems in evaluating alignment to local instructional contexts and goals, student populations, and implementation considerations as they make informed local decisions about assessment selection and adoption to better support their students’ foundational literacy and numeracy outcomes.

The Sun Club Sustainability Grant, offered by Green Mountain Energy, empowers U.S.-based nonprofits to implement sustainability initiatives. Established in 2002, this grant supports diverse projects, including clean transportation, renewable energy, and resource conservation. Organizations must demonstrate three years of tax-exempt status and a commitment to community impact. Awards range from $50,000 to $400,000, focusing on measurable environmental, social, and financial benefits. Join us in fostering a greener future through innovative solutions and community engagement.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Astros Foundation Grant Program supports youth sports and education initiatives, aiming to uplift communities by addressing issues like childhood cancer and domestic violence. As the official charity of the Houston Astros, it aids local 501(c)3 nonprofits that focus on youth baseball/softball, literacy, and military recognition. With a commitment to reducing homelessness, the foundation engages fans to drive positive change in the community, ensuring all programs align with its mission of quality of life enhancement.

AgPro Grant Program

Grow your operation. Expand your potential.

Grant funding to help Texas producers improve, upgrade, and scale their agricultural operations.

Program Overview

The Agriculture Production Resource Opportunity (AgPro) Grant Program, administered by the Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA), under the direction of the Texas Agricultural Finance Authority (TAFA), provides funding to help Texas producers improve, expand, and strengthen their agricultural operations through strategic investments in equipment, infrastructure, and efficiency.

The Agriculture Grant Program (AGP) was created by the Texas Legislature in 2025 for the purpose of maintaining agricultural businesses, maintaining agricultural uses of land, or fostering supply chain resiliency or the creation and expansion of agricultural businesses by people in this state. The AgPro Grant Program was created as one of the subprograms under the AGP

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 Workforce Commission

Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) is the state agency charged with overseeing and providing workforce development services to employers and job seekers of Texas. TWC strengthens the Texas economy by providing the workforce development component of the Governor's economic development strategy. Texas boasts an incredibly skilled workforce ready to attract enterprise to the Lone Star State. By focusing on the needs of employers, TWC gives Texas the competitive edge necessary to draw business here.

Self Sufficiency Fund Program

The Self Sufficiency Fund is a training grant to help individuals obtain industry recognized credentials and be placed in an occupation that provides a path toward Self Sufficiency. The program focuses on training for the following groups:

• Adult receiving government assistance such as Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
• Individuals at risk of becoming dependent on public assistance.
• Individuals earning less than $37,000 annually with a dependent child, custodial or non-custodial.
• Youth between the ages of 18-24 that are a part of a low-income household.

The Self Sufficiency program is administered by the Texas Workforce Commission, in partnership with public community and technical colleges, a higher education extension service, and community-based organizations, and is governed by the following rules and regulations:

• Texas Administrative Code, Title 40, Part 20, Chapter 835
• Texas Labor Code, Chapter 309

Program Requirements:

• Grantees must provide training that leads to an industry-recognized certificate or credential.
• Training can be for any target occupation or an occupation that is subject to approval by the local Workforce Development Board.
• Training must focus on core or support occupations that provide a path toward higher-level occupations.
• Various training methods are accepted, including classroom, simulations, and online instruction.
• Applicants may receive up to $500,000 for projects.
• Target cost is $2500 per trainee.
• Funding may include tuition, training materials, books and supplies.
• Job placement for participants is required and may be with any employer.

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.

About CPRIT

The State of Texas has established the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), which may issue up to $6 billion in general obligation bonds to fund grants for cancer research and prevention.

CPRIT is charged by the Texas Legislature to do the following:

• Create and expedite innovation in the area of cancer research and in enhancing the potential for a medical or scientific breakthrough in the prevention of, or cures for, cancer;
• Attract, create, or expand research capabilities of public or private institutions of higher education and other public or private entities that will promote a substantial increase in cancer research and in the creation of high-quality new jobs in the State of Texas; and 
• Develop and implement the Texas Cancer Plan

Rationale

The aim of this award mechanism is to bolster cancer research in Texas by providing financial support to attract very promising investigators who are pursuing their first faculty appointment at the level of assistant professor (first-time, tenure-track faculty members). These individuals must have demonstrated academic excellence, innovation during predoctoral and/or postdoctoral research training, commitment to pursuing cancer research, and exceptional potential for achieving future impact in basic, translational, population-based, or clinical research. Awards are intended to provide institutions with a competitive edge in recruiting the world’s best talent in cancer research, thereby advancing cancer research and prevention efforts, and promoting economic development in the State of Texas.

The recruitment of outstanding scientists will greatly enhance programs of scientific excellence in cancer research and will position Texas as a leader in the fight against cancer. Applications may address any research topic related to cancer biology, causation, prevention, detection or screening, treatment, or survivorship. Principal Investigators (PIs) with research programs addressing CPRIT’s priority areas for research are encouraged. These include implementation research to accelerate the adoption and deployment of evidence-based prevention and screening interventions, computational oncology and analytic methods, research including population-based research addressing cancer disparities, childhood and adolescent cancers, hepatocellular cancer, and expansion of access to innovative clinical trials.

The Texas HIV Medication Program (THMP) provides medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and insurance assistance for the treatment of HIV and its related complications for low-income Texans. To qualify for medications, potential clients who meet eligibility criteria must complete an application for assistance. Once approved, a client receives medications at an assigned pharmacy in their community.

The Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, established by the Texas Legislature in 2001, offers essential funding to volunteer fire departments for acquiring firefighting vehicles, equipment, and training. Eligible departments must be recognized and in good standing with Texas authorities. This program addresses the critical needs of fire services, although demand often exceeds available funding, necessitating a prioritization of requests to support all departments effectively.

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. 

School Bus Safety Grant Program

Program Description

The purpose of this grant program is to assist school systems with retrofitting school buses with three-point seat belts. The seat belts should comply with the safety standards established by the Department of Public Safety in accordance with Texas Education Code, Section 34.002, Texas Administrative Code, Title 37, Chapter 14, and any other applicable laws. 

The Amy Young Barrier Removal Program provides one-time grants to Persons with Disabilities in a Household qualified as Low-Income. Grants are for home modifications that increase accessibility and eliminate life-threatening hazards, and correct substandard conditions. 

The Texas Bar Foundation Grant supports programs that enhance justice in Texas, focusing on legal services for the underserved, ethics in the legal profession, and public education about the legal system. Over $1,600,000 will be awarded this year to non-profits aligned with these goals. Grants are exclusively for 501(c)3 charities, with a total of $871,270 distributed to 70 organizations in the Fall 2024 cycle, contributing to over $28 million in grants since inception.

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. 

MWH Group Accounting Scholarship

The MWH Group Accounting Scholarship was established in 2017. The $1,000 award has the potential to be renewed for an additional year if grade requirements are met.

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.

2026-2027 Communities In Schools

Program Description

The purpose of the CIS program is to remove barriers to learning to keep students persisting through their education. CIS partners with educators, students, and parents to identify students who are at-risk of dropping out of school and determine their unique needs and reasons for disengagement. Once these needs are identified, CIS customizes supports for campuses, students, and families that are uniquely tailored to the identified needs and provides schoolwide services and individual case management to support both students and the entire school. CIS engages the community as a vital part of the process and strives to connect the campus and students to needed community resources. This comprehensive model includes effective program administration; trained professional staff on each campus, community resource coordination; holistic, case management for students and families with significant needs and schoolwide services aligned to campus goals.

2026-2027 ESC IDEA-B Special Education Leadership

Program Description

IDEA-B discretionary funds must be used for activities that are directly related to the provision of technical assistance and support for school systems to improve student performance and program and service effectiveness for students with disabilities, ages 3 through 21.

Each Regional Education Service Center (ESC) will provide leadership, training, coaching, and technical assistance aligned to TEA developed materials in the area of special education for students with disabilities in accordance with TEA’s focus on increasing student achievement and Texas Education Code (TEC) §8.051(d)(2) and (5) and will assist TEA in the implementation of IDEA 2004.

ESCs will work with TEA and participate with agency staff to promote and implement leadership and information dissemination activities.

Additionally, each ESC will participate in activities associated with and resulting from the State Performance Plan (SPP), the Statewide Initiatives Implementation Plan (SIIP), the TEA Review and Support Division’s identified Focus Areas of Compliance, the Special Education Continuous Improvement Plan (SECIP), and other TEA statewide initiatives. To ensure effective communication and information dissemination among the state, regions, and school systems, each ESC will designate specific staff members who will be responsible for tracking/reporting activities related to these areas.

2026-2027 ESC Special Education Liaison Grant

Program Description

The main goal of the Special Education Liaison Grant is to improve outcomes of students receiving special education services through the provision of timely, targeted program support for school systems. This grant provides positions that integrate and align Texas Education Agency (TEA) initiatives and expectations for school systems.

Staff funded through this grant are expected to travel both within their assigned Education Service Center (ESC) region and across ESC regions as needed to effectively support program implementation and the broader statewide initiative. This includes on-site support, regional convenings, and cross-region collaboration during TEA-designated Professional Learning Community (PLC) weeks to ensure alignment and consistency of services.

Grant-funded staff must actively collaborate with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to meet all program requirements and performance measures. In addition, there is an expectation to engage in and contribute to statewide collaboration efforts among Education Service Center Special Education (SPED) Liaisons, Strategic Integration Liaisons (SILs), and SIL Coaches. This collaboration is essential to ensuring shared learning, coordinated implementation, and continuous improvement across the state.

2026-2027 Special Education Specialized Support (SESS)

Program Description

The purpose of this program is to support the dissemination and implementation of state-level technical assistance, professional development, and project support (e.g., pass-through funds) in the following areas of special education: services to students, ages birth through 21 years of age, who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH), deafblind (DB), blind and visually impaired (BVI), as well as students receiving compensatory services and related services resulting from the closure of a charter school. A robust ecosystem of resources and trainings in these areas was developed from 2019-2024; this grant will support the targeted implementation of these resources and trainings to scale their usage across the state. The audience for the technical assistance and professional development provided through this grant primarily includes school system administrators, educators, and support staff with the ultimate goal of improving special educator practice and outcomes for students with disabilities. TEA and the grantee will be supported in their endeavors with the help of ESC staff from all 20 regions in Texas.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The Rufus J. Cleghorn Scholarship aims to support the higher education of facilities management professionals in Texas. It offers two grants: $2500 for full-time healthcare facility managers pursuing relevant degrees, and $1000 for full-time students in healthcare facilities management programs. Eligible applicants must meet specific GPA requirements and provide necessary documentation, including a letter of recommendation and a narrative on their interest in the field. The TAHFM Scholarship Committee oversees the selection process.

The Early College High School (ECHS) initiative by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) offers an innovative program that allows students to earn up to two years of college credit at no cost. Targeting historically underserved and at-risk students, ECHS promotes higher education access and success. Research indicates that ECHS participants are nearly three times more likely to earn college degrees compared to their peers, demonstrating its effectiveness in bridging educational gaps.