Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Texas

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

Texas Coastal Management Program Grant Application

The Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office is soliciting applications for projects that address environmental concerns and promote economic development within the Texas coastal zone. The Coastal Management Program (CMP) Grant Cycle 32 involves a competitive application process for applicants applying for either NOAA-funded or Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) funded projects.

CMP NOAA Projects

The CMP awards two types of NOAA CZMA funds- §306 administrative funding and §306A coastal resource improvement program funding, with conditions.

CMP GOMESA Projects

These projects are funded entirely with GOMESA money and are meant to address large-scale and construction-based coastal issues. CMP GOMESA projects focused on earth-moving construction, restoration, preservation, or land acquisition will be prioritized. CMP GOMESA can fund public access projects that provide physical conveyance and access to the beach environment or protect and preserve beach and dune habitat. Projects can include dune walkovers, parking areas, restrooms, rinse stations, trailsystems and non-commercial piers.

Access to these structures should be free and open to the public. Structures and activities not directly related to preserving habitat or physically conveying public access, such as buildings, playgrounds, or other similar enhancements, are not eligible for funding. Demolition projects (i.e. removal of existing parking lots, structures, facilities) are not permitted unless the structures are prohibiting public access, are on the public beach easement, or represent a contamination/pollution threat to coastal natural resources. Commercial pier, commercial marina, and wastewater treatment plant construction are not eligible. CMP GOMESA projects can focus on non-construction/earth-moving activities but, in these situations, the work proposed should be large-scale and regional in nature. Most non-construction work will be funded with NOAA money.

Beginning this year, construction/earth-moving CMP GOMESA projects should be submitted in phases instead of in their entirety. This change will ensure timely completion of project goals without the need for contract time extensions and to accommodate extended permitting timelines often seen with coastal construction projects. Construction/earth-moving CMP GOMESA projects should be applied for in accordance with the following phases, as applicable:

• Phase 1 – feasibility study, alternatives analysis, preliminary design
• Phase 2 – permitting and final design
• Phase 3 – construction, closeout
• Phase 4 – monitoring, as needed

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

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.

The Texas Nonpoint Source Management Grant Program aims to combat nonpoint source pollution as mandated by the Clean Water Act. This program addresses pollution from various diffuse sources, including agricultural runoff and urban runoff. Administered by the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, it undertakes comprehensive strategies to protect water quality and is refreshed every five years to adapt to new challenges.

The Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support programs benefiting children in Texas, focusing on growth, self-esteem, and innovation. Grants usually do not exceed $10,000 for program funding and can reach up to $50,000 for capital needs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and serve children within Texas. The foundation encourages collaborative projects and may request site visits to evaluate grant proposals effectively.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.

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.

Texas Coastal Management Program Grant Application

The Commissioner of the Texas General Land Office is soliciting applications for projects that address environmental concerns and promote economic development within the Texas coastal zone. The Coastal Management Program (CMP) Grant Cycle 32 involves a competitive application process for applicants applying for either NOAA-funded or Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) funded projects.

CMP NOAA Projects

The CMP awards two types of NOAA CZMA funds- §306 administrative funding and §306A coastal resource improvement program funding, with conditions.

CZMA §306A Coastal Resource Improvement Program Funds

§306A projects involve land acquisition, small-scale construction, or small-scale earth moving activities.

Due to NOAA’s prescribed 18-month project timeline and the number of environmental clearances construction with NOAA funds requires, CMP only funds the following types of §306A projects:

• Engineering, design, and permitting for future construction projects
• Small-scale construction of fully permitted projects, i.e. shovel ready
• Land acquisition

pavilions, picnic areas, trail building, restrooms and rinse stations, small-scale land acquisition, and small-dune walkover retrofitting and enhancement

The Creative Space Assistance Program, overseen by the City of Austin's Cultural Arts Division, supports creative commercial spaces facing displacement or high lease costs. With a minimum operating budget of $60,000, eligible applicants include live music venues, performance theaters, and art galleries. Funds can be utilized for rent payments, insurance, and space improvements. This initiative seeks to enhance Austin's cultural identity while promoting economic growth and a vibrant creative community.

The TCA Cultural District Project, initiated by the Texas Commission on the Arts, aims to foster economic and cultural development through arts-driven initiatives. This program supports projects that enhance local economies by attracting visitors and investment, focusing on cultural tourism. Eligible applicants include TCA Cultural Districts and established arts organizations, with funding requests ranging from $3,000 to a maximum of $250,000, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. The program emphasizes high-quality arts programming and improved accessibility.

The State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT) Program provides affordable financial assistance for projects outlined in the state water plan. Managed by the Texas Water Development Board, it offers low-interest loans and flexible repayment options to support water management strategies. Eligible projects include conservation, desalination, and infrastructure development. The program aims to optimize water supplies efficiently and effectively, particularly benefiting rural communities and agricultural water conservation efforts.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Texas support eligible rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that jeopardize safe drinking water. Events qualifying as emergencies include droughts, floods, and disease outbreaks. The grants can fund water transmission lines and new water sources, with funding up to $1,000,000. These efforts aim to restore access to clean water and enhance local environments, ultimately benefiting rural households and businesses.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Pangburn Foundation Grant supports charitable, religious, educational, or scientific organizations in Texas. This private foundation, administered by JPMorgan, funds only nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code. Individuals are not eligible to apply for this grant. For more information about the application process, please visit the foundation's finder link provided by JPMorgan.

Program Description

The purpose of this grant program is to provide targeted capacity support to increase the number of School Psychologists across the state of Texas. By investing in the academic infrastructure of School Psychologist programs, this initiative aims to expand program capacity, maintain instructional quality, and accelerate the pipeline of qualified School Psychologists entering the workforce in Texas. This effort directly addresses the statewide shortage of licensed School Psychologists and supports the long-term goal of improving access to essential evaluations and services for students with disabilities.

The Harry E. and Eda L. Montandon Charitable Trust Grant provides financial support to Texas-based organizations serving handicapped, disabled, or disadvantaged individuals, including children. Grants range from $10,000 to $125,000, averaging $25,000. Priority is given to requests for capital needs and program support, with a duration of one year. Organizations may submit only one application per calendar year, while requests for endowment funds are not accepted.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

The 2025-2026 Title IV, Part A ESC Capacity Building State Initiative, funded by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance educational outcomes across Texas. This grant focuses on providing training and resources to 20 Education Service Centers (ESCs) to improve well-rounded education, promote safe and healthy students, and leverage technology effectively. The initiative seeks to strengthen the capacity of school systems statewide, ensuring all students receive quality educational support.

The Community Outdoor Outreach Program (CO-OP) Grant, offered by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, provides funding ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 to tax-exempt organizations. This initiative promotes outdoor recreation and environmental education for under-served populations, including low-income and minority groups. By fostering partnerships with local organizations, CO-OP aims to enhance accessibility to outdoor activities, ensuring that all Texans can enjoy and engage with nature responsibly.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 5) aims to empower small businesses through comprehensive support from the U.S. Department of Transportation. By providing financial and technical assistance, business training, and outreach, the initiative helps small businesses enhance their competitiveness for DOT-funded contracts. This program is vital for fostering economic growth and ensuring small firms are well-prepared to engage in transportation-related projects at various governmental levels.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) 

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. 

Special Education Capacity: TWU-SLP Grant

The purpose of this project is to decrease the shortage of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in school systems across the state and increase the quality of early and effective communication interventions that lessen the impact of delayed or disordered language on literacy development.

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. 

Title I Parent and Family Engagement Initiative

Program Description

The purpose of this program is to provide support to School Systems and ESCs by providing access to best practice resources and strategies to improve student achievement.

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. 

Local Accountability Plan Technical Assistance Grant

Program Description

The scope of the work will include providing technical assistance for school systems as they develop their Local Accountability System plan.

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. 

Governance Interventions Field Service Support

Program Description

This project supports Commissioner-initiated interventions and the delivery of intensive educational assistance aimed at ensuring students perform at grade level by reimbursing school systems for costs associated with an appointed external field agent.