Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The Shelby Rae Tengg Foundation for Heart and Cancer Research Grant supports 501(c)(3) public charities conducting heart and cancer research in Bexar County, Texas. Founded by an active community member, the foundation honors her legacy and addresses significant health challenges. Grants are available to local organizations, and if none qualify, funds can be allocated to other Texas charities focused on these critical health issues, contributing to vital research and community health improvement.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) 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. TEA helps deliver education to more than 5 million students under the leadership of the commissioner of education. The TEA operational costs are supported by both state and federal funds.

The Texas Education Agency 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.

School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1

Program Description

The purpose of the 2026-2027 School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation Continuation Year 1 grant is to assist applicants with the implementation and execution of already planned whole-school actions which received a School Action Fund Grant-Planning and Implementation (LASO 3) grant, and which will provide an opportunity for the applicant to create new and improved learning environments that sustainably increase student achievement, increase access to high-quality schools, meet community needs, and address chronic under-performance. 

Nutrition Incentive Program (TX)

This funding opportunity invites Grant Applications requesting funding for the NIP Project. The purpose of this program is to provide NIP Project services. NIPs are designed to increase the purchase of fruits and vegetables by low-income households participating in the SNAP by providing an Incentive for the purchase of fruits and vegetables at the point of sale to a household buying food with SNAP benefits. NIPs improve access to fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables for Texas families, create more business for Texas farmers and Retailers, and boost local economies. 

HHSC will look solely to the Grantee for the performance of all Grantee obligations and requirements in a Grant Agreement resulting from this RFA. Grantee shall not be relieved of its obligations for any nonperformance by its subgrantees or subcontractors, if any.

The total amount of State funding available for the NIP Project grant is $6,000,000.00 for the entire Project Period. The NIP Project(s) must be completed no later than August 31, 2027. It is HHSC’s intention to make multiple awards to Applicants that successfully demonstrate that they currently implement a NIP that qualifies for federal funds under Section 4205, Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (7 U.S.C. Section 7517).

Applicants are strongly cautioned to only apply for the amount of grant funding they can responsibly expend during the Project Period to avoid lapsed funding at the end of the Grant Term. Successful Applications may not be funded to the full extent of Applicant’s requested Budgets in order to ensure grant funds are available for the broadest possible array of communities and programs. Reimbursement will only be made for actual, allowable, and allocable expenses that occur within the Project Period. No spending or costs incurred prior to the effective date of the award will be eligible for reimbursement.

The Texas Education Agency is launching the 2025-2026 Leadership Academy, which includes Specialized Leadership Coaching Teams. This initiative aims to develop aspiring school system leaders through effective programming grounded in research-based practices. Utilizing the Center for Effective Districts, the agency will provide logistical and operational support to enhance educational outcomes across Texas. This grant will play a crucial role in building leadership capacity within schools, fostering improved educational environments for students.

The Shelton Family Foundation Grant supports IRS tax-exempt organizations in Abilene and the Big Country area. Established in 1996, the foundation honors the legacy of A.B. “Stormy” Shelton by funding projects in areas such as basic human services, education, health, and community development. Grant proposals are accepted year-round, with reviews conducted in February and August. This initiative aims to address local needs and foster community well-being.

The 2025-2026 Discipline and Behavior Supports Grant, overseen by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance educational practices for students with disabilities. This program focuses on developing technical assistance and professional development resources, addressing behavioral interventions and alternatives to exclusionary discipline. It intends to support educators in effectively managing challenging behaviors and improving outcomes for students. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the grant seeks to ensure that all voices are heard in the educational process.

The James Lee Wilson Award, presented by the Society for Sedimentary Geology (SEPM), recognizes outstanding contributions to sedimentary geology by young scientists. This prestigious award encourages emerging researchers to excel in their fields and fosters the growth of sedimentary geology as a discipline. Notably, there are no age restrictions for nominees, and recognition is open to individuals beyond SEPM members, emphasizing inclusivity and the importance of diverse contributions to the science.

The Isla Carroll Turner Friendship Trust Grant provides vital support for services to the elderly in Texas, focusing on individuals aged 60 and above, as well as those over 47 with Down Syndrome. Funding is restricted to nonprofits and governmental agencies within the state, enhancing educational programming and direct services. The Trust prioritizes local organizations to ensure effective management and delivery of resources for the elderly community.

The Small Rural Hospital Improvement Program (SHIP) aims to enhance healthcare access in rural Texas by providing funding to small hospitals with 49 beds or fewer. This initiative supports the acquisition of essential equipment, training, and technology to comply with healthcare regulations and improve service delivery. SHIP funding priorities emphasize quality outcomes through programs like MBQIP and ICD-11 readiness, ensuring that rural hospitals can effectively participate in value-based care initiatives.

The Arthur A. Seeligson Jr. Conservation Fund Grant, administered by the Fort Worth Zoo, aims to conserve native Texas wildlife through collaborative projects. With over $101,000 awarded to date, the fund focuses on supporting partnerships among scientists, educators, and landowners. In 2025, it seeks proposals that promote conservation, enhance biodiversity, and have a measurable impact, while keeping project costs at $5,000 or less. This initiative is vital for sustaining Texas's rich natural heritage.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows and research trainees in the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research, facilitating their transition to independent research roles at extramural institutions. Key deadlines for applications include October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others, providing ample opportunity for qualified investigators to advance their careers.

The Windgate Charitable Trust Grant supports contemporary craft and visual arts in the U.S. It offers funding for fellowships, residencies, educational outreach, and materials for craft programs. The foundation prioritizes strengthening visual arts in colleges and expanding K-12 art-integrated programs, providing opportunities for artists and educators to enhance their skills and foster creativity among students. Organizations with previous funding from Windgate can apply through the grantee portal.

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

Supporting Career Shifters

The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has authorized the use of one million dollars ($1,000,000) in Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds to develop career exploration initiatives serving participants who want to shift careers to a Targeted or High Demand Occupation.

Eligible Applicants under this Application are the Texas Local Workforce Development Boards. Applicants, that are not a Texas Local Workforce Development Board will be disqualified and will not be evaluated.

The 2025-2026 ESC IDEA-B Preschool program, administered by the Texas Education Agency, allocates funds to 20 regional education service centers. These funds support local educational agencies in providing free appropriate public education to children with disabilities aged 3-5. The initiative emphasizes professional development, technical assistance, and coordination with the state's Early Learning Initiative, ensuring that every child receives the necessary resources and support for their educational needs.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

The Rosendin Foundation Emergency Grant provides financial support for unplanned expenses due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Grants up to $5,000 are available for community-focused non-profit organizations in states where Rosendin and MPS operate. The foundation prioritizes emotional, occupational, and nutritional health initiatives, aiming to positively impact communities and empower individuals through financial support and volunteer efforts.

The Episcopal Health Foundation Grant invites existing and new partners to apply for funding opportunities from January to May 2026, focusing on three key Impact Drivers. This initiative is part of the Strategic Framework 2025-2030, aimed at improving health systems and removing barriers for Texans. The application process for Cycle 2 will commence in June 2026, with updates on funding priorities expected in Spring 2026.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department provides outdoor recreational opportunities by managing and protecting wildlife and wildlife habitat and acquiring and managing parklands and historic areas. It has inherited the functions of many state entities created to protect Texas' natural resources.

Mission: To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) Grants

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program is a competitive grant initiative under the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Act, aimed at enhancing parks, recreational opportunities, and conservation areas in underserved, urban areas. These investments enable urban communities to create new outdoor recreation spaces, reinvigorate existing parks, and form connections between people and the outdoors.

Managed by the National Park Service (NPS) and funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), the nationally competitive ORLP program provides matching grants (up to 50% of total project costs) to assist communities with little to no access to outdoor recreation opportunities in urban areas. Funds can be used for the acquisition and/or development of, or substantial renovation of public parks and other outdoor recreation spaces. Development should encompass essential public outdoor recreation activities and the necessary support facilities for public use. Projects could involve a combination of land acquisition and site development. These projects can cater to a diverse range of public outdoor recreation activities and facilities required to enhance the use and enjoyment for the public. These include, and are not limited to community parks, campgrounds, playgrounds, sport fields and courts, picnic facilities, trails, etc. While facilities that support the use of the recreating public, such as restroom, visitor contact infrastructure, and maintenance facilities can be eligible, most indoor recreation and other buildings such as nature centers, community centers, or education center are ineligible for funding.

Only State Lead Agencies are eligible to submit applications for ORLP grants. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is the State Lead Agency. TPWD may submit on behalf of themselves or an eligible sub-recipient.

ORLP projects must meet two eligibility criteria: The required population in census tracts is set at 25,000 people and the project must be within an underserved community.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The Texas Chapter of The Wildlife Society offers Graduate Scholarships for students in natural resource conservation programs. Awards include $1000 for Conservation Equity Partners and Wildlife Systems, Inc, $1500 for the National Wild Turkey Federation Scholarship, $1000 for the Sam Beasom Memorial Scholarship, and $500 for the Dan Boone Memorial Scholarship. Eligible candidates must maintain enrollment in a Texas accredited program and a GPA of at least 3.0.

The Manning Foundation Grant, established by William O. Manning in 1992, supports research aimed at preventing blindness and curing eye diseases, alongside initiatives for intellectual and developmental disabilities. With an annual funding of approximately $250,000, the Foundation primarily assists organizations in Texas that meet 501(c)(3) tax-exempt criteria. By advancing innovative concepts and technology, the Foundation plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals affected by these conditions.

The Ronald L. Schmied GCFI Scholarship is a travel award supporting graduate students studying marine recreational fisheries. Established in memory of Ron Schmied, a dedicated fisheries biologist, this scholarship aims to assist students in attending the Gulf and Caribbean Fisheries Institute annual meeting. With at least one $1,500 scholarship awarded each year, it covers airfare, lodging, and research-related expenses, fostering the next generation of fishery professionals and promoting engagement in vital discussions within the field.

The Kenedy Memorial Foundation Grant supports both Sectarian and Non-Sectarian entities, primarily focusing on Catholic schools and churches in Texas. The Foundation emphasizes grants that foster significant community benefits and encourages applications from recognized 501(c)(3) organizations. Core values include breaking the cycle of poverty, advancing spirituality, and nurturing support for Catholic institutions. The Foundation also allocates a portion of funds to non-sectarian charities, promoting inclusive support within the community.

The 2025-2026 TSBVI and TSD Consolidated Application provides essential funding for special education services at the Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Texas School for the Deaf. This program aims to ensure that students with visual impairments receive a free appropriate public education, protect their rights, support classroom instruction, and assess educational effectiveness. Additionally, funds may address other priorities set by the State Board of Education and Texas Education Agency.

The Andersen Corporate Foundation, established in 1941, aims to enhance lives and strengthen communities where its employees reside. It has contributed over $65 million to various causes, focusing on housing, healthcare, hunger relief, and education. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, primarily supporting nonprofit organizations that align with these areas, particularly in communities where Andersen operates, ensuring a lasting impact on local initiatives.