Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The Student Research Fellowship Awards program provides financial support of up to $2,500 for students conducting research on Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) for a minimum of 10 weeks. Aimed at undergraduate, medical, and graduate students, the initiative encourages research interest in IBD. Up to 16 awards are available, and research must be conducted under a qualified mentor at an accredited institution, ensuring a professional academic environment for the study of this critical health issue.

The Jack Ford Shelby Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, supports graduating seniors from Littlefield High School in Texas with scholarships up to $5,000 for pursuing a baccalaureate degree at accredited colleges or universities. This initiative aims to enhance community health and equity by investing in the education of local students, ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed academically and contribute positively to society.

The Christina Sue Lilja Resource Grants support agricultural literacy by providing funds for educators to purchase resources from the Ag Foundation store. In 2025, 100 educators will receive $100 in store credits, selected randomly if applications exceed this number. This initiative, backed by the CSL Foundation, honors Christy Lilja's legacy of advocating for agricultural education. The grants aim to enhance classroom resources and improve students' understanding of agriculture, ensuring access to accurate information.

The AISES National Conference Travel Scholarship provides financial support for full-time students in STEM fields to attend the annual conference. Covering registration, airfare, and lodging, recipients must commit to attending all events and uphold the AISES Code of Conduct. Selection is based on the quality of essays, letters of recommendation, and academic performance. Announcements for awarded scholarships will be made in late August/early September 2025, facilitating networking and professional development for indigenous students.

The Grady Graves Scholarship Fund, established in 1953, aims to uplift the community by providing scholarships of up to $20,000 for graduating seniors of Crowell High School in Texas. Focused on enhancing health, wealth, and education, this initiative fosters a culture of giving and equity. By partnering with local donors and organizations, the fund plays a vital role in shaping a brighter future for students and the broader community.

The Peter C. Sotus, M.D. Scholarship is part of the Erie Community Foundation's initiative that awarded over $800,000 in scholarships in 2023 to support students pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship targets high school seniors accepted into accredited institutions, focusing on careers in medicine or music. Preference is given to students born outside the US or children of non-US born parents. This award encourages diversity and support for aspiring professionals.

The Exhibitions Abroad Support Grant Program, initiated by the Japan Foundation in New York, offers financial aid to U.S. museums and art institutions organizing exhibitions that showcase Japanese art and culture internationally. This program supports a range of events, including biennials and triennials featuring Japanese artists. Eligible applicants are non-profit organizations from designated states, with a focus on promoting cultural exchange and understanding through art.

The VFW's Sport Clips Help A Hero Scholarship offers financial support of up to $5,000 to eligible veterans and service members pursuing their educational goals. This initiative, backed by the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization, aims to alleviate the burden of student debt for those who have served our country. By partnering with Student Veterans of America and Sport Clips, the VFW ensures that veterans receive the assistance they deserve to succeed in their academic endeavors.

The T.E.A.L. Research Grant supports innovative ovarian cancer research initiatives aligned with the mission of the Tell Every Amazing Lady About Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Designed for researchers affiliated with 501(c)3 not-for-profit institutions in the U.S., the grant aims to enhance women's health awareness and education regarding ovarian cancer. While the application period for 2025 is currently closed, interested parties should anticipate further updates in spring 2026.

The Jefferies-Park Scholarship, established in 1988 by Evelyn Jefferies-Park, honors her commitment to education. It supports graduating seniors from Ord High School, Nebraska, who are in the top 15% of their class and plan to pursue a four-year degree. This scholarship reflects the legacy of generosity fostered by the Lincoln Community Foundation, which has provided over $606,000 in scholarships to local students in 2025 alone.

The Technologies for Improving Minority Health and Eliminating Health Disparities (R41/R42) program invites small business concerns to develop innovative technologies aimed at enhancing minority health and addressing health disparities. This initiative emphasizes the creation of effective, affordable, and culturally acceptable solutions for NIH-defined populations. Key deadlines for applications span from June 2024 to December 2026, with optional Letters of Intent encouraged 30 days prior to submission.

The Believe in Reading Grant, offered by The Steve and Loree Potash Family Foundation, targets established literacy programs with a proven track record. The foundation aims to support initiatives that address literacy across various age groups, particularly in areas of high need. Grants can be up to $10,000, with a focus on projects that earmark funds specifically for literacy. Applications are reviewed bi-monthly, and first-time applicants are limited to $3,000.

The Greater Evansville USBCA Scholarship, established by the Greater Evansville USBCA, supports students from Posey, Vanderburgh, and Warrick counties who engage in community service and bowling activities. Eligible applicants must have been members of the USBCA for two of the past four years or be children of members with a minimum 2.0 GPA. The selection process considers academic performance, bowling involvement, community service, and submitted essays and recommendations.

The Innovations for Healthy Living program invites eligible U.S. small businesses to apply for SBIR grants aimed at improving minority health and eliminating health disparities. The initiative encourages innovative proposals for effective, affordable, and culturally acceptable solutions. Key deadlines for applications span from June 2024 to December 2026, with optional Letters of Intent recommended 30 days prior to submission. This funding opportunity supports projects that address health challenges faced by underserved populations.

Judge Richard S. (Stan) Gault Education Scholarship

The Judge Richard S. (Stan) Gault Education Scholarship was established in 2010 by his family to honor his memory and support residents of his hometown, Forsyth County, Georgia, in pursuing their educational goals. The Honorable Richard S. Gault was a distinguished Georgian, a highly respected jurist, a dedicated community leader, and a lifelong advocate for education.

This scholarship is available to non-traditional students or graduating high school seniors who attend Forsyth Central High School, North Forsyth High School, or East Forsyth High School. Applicants must be a resident of Forsyth County, Georgia. Students must be planning to enroll in an accredited college, university, technical school, or secondary training program. In 2026, one scholarship award of $2,500 will be offered.

Scholarships

Since awarding our first $500 scholarship in 1987, the Saginaw Community Foundation has awarded college scholarships to area students totaling more than $13.7 million, thanks to our generous donors. Each year, over 500 college-bound or career and technical education students benefit from our scholarship awards.

Our single application process makes it easy to potentially qualify for one or more of our 260+ scholarships.

Music Scholarship

At a very early age in Alabama, Lee Essie Smith was a self-taught musician. After losing her mother as a young teenager, she began putting her God-given musical talent to work as a pianist for several churches. By the time she graduated from high school, she had learned the cosmetology trade and met Charlie McMillan, Jr.

After his wife’s death, Mr. McMillan continued his community service with the Democratic Party, Habitat for Humanity and Mt. Olive Baptist Church as an usher. Although he did not serve very long in the military, Mr. McMillan continues to exemplify the values and physical energy of the “Army Strong” slogan. He is the patriarch of the family – always dapper – and a regular attendee at church services.

The VFW Post 2326 Ward-Goff Memorial Scholarship, established by Mr. and Mrs. Elgin Ward and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Goff, honors their sons who served in the Vietnam War. This scholarship provides financial assistance to children and grandchildren of active military personnel and veterans. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit necessary documents, including transcripts. The scholarship emphasizes financial need and aims to support outstanding students pursuing their educational goals.

The Terry Linda Potter Scholarship, awarded by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students from Northwest Ottawa County pursuing health-related degrees. Established in memory of Terry Linda Potter, this scholarship prioritizes financial need and academic performance. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to further education and submit necessary documentation, including transcripts and recommendation letters. This fund honors Terry's legacy, providing vital financial assistance to aspiring healthcare professionals in the Tri-Cities area.

Marshall Community Foundation

The Marshall Community Foundation is a partnership of endowed funds established by individuals and organizations. A Board of Trustees, comprised of local community leaders, invest the pooled endowments. Income generated is then available for grants that address charitable needs in our community. Staff and trained volunteers monitor the grants to ensure fulfillment of the grant agreements.

The full circle of philanthropy is poetry in motion. The Foundation receives your gifts, grants to local non-profits, who in turn, give back by providing services to the community. Truly, the Foundation is all about improving the quality of life and making this a better place to live, work and raise a family.

Zink Family Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to residents of Marshall and surrounding townships pursuing an education or advanced training in skilled trades, as defined by the Committee and reflective of current industry needs, including but not limited to the fields of:

• healthcare technician,
• agriculture,
• information technology,
• manufacturing,
• construction or
• automotive.

The Guy Bradley Award, established in 1988 by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), honors individuals who have made significant contributions to wildlife law enforcement. Named after the first wildlife officer killed in the line of duty, this award recognizes the vital role of law enforcement agents in wildlife conservation. Eligible candidates include current and retired personnel from state and federal agencies who have demonstrated exemplary dedication to protecting wildlife and advancing enforcement goals.

Scholarships and Awards

The National Federation of the Blind offers several scholarships and awards that honor blind individuals as well as teachers, professionals, entrepreneurs, and organizations whose work benefits the blind community.

Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award

Honor a teacher who provides exemplary education, experiences, and opportunities for their blind students.

Every year, the Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award recognizes an outstanding teacher of blind students. The education of blind children is one of the National Federation of the Blind's highest priorities. Please help us recognize dedicated and innovative teachers who provide quality education and meaningful experiences and opportunities for their blind students.

The Award

The Distinguished Educator of Blind Students Award is presented at the NFB National Convention. Honorees receive: 

• An expense-paid trip to attend the convention
• A check for $1,000
• A commemorative plaque
• A place on the agenda of the annual meeting of the National Organization of Parents of Blind Children
• The opportunity to attend seminars and workshops that address the current state of education of blind students, as well as a chance to meet and network with hundreds of blind individuals, teachers, parents, and other professionals in the field

The Karl A. Bickel and Madira Bickel Journalistic Scholarship Fund Grant supports journalism students at accredited colleges and universities. Established under Karl A. Bickel's Last Will and Testament, it awards approximately $40,000 annually. Eligible organizations must have journalism programs and qualify as 501(c)(3) exempt entities. While there are no geographical restrictions, preference is given to institutions in Florida. The fund is administered by Wells Fargo Bank, ensuring that deserving students receive necessary financial support.

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation Inc

The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is the only nonprofit charity organization dedicated to ending mesothelioma, and the suffering caused by this cancer, by:

• funding research to improve treatment options;
• providing treatment support and education for patients and their families;
• and advocating for federal funding of research.

The mission of the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation spans across four distinct areas: through research, education, support, and advocacy the Foundation seeks to eradicate the vicious effects of mesothelioma. Led by the Board of Directors, our team works collaboratively to develop and administer our programs, and to fundraise to pay for those programs (the Foundation is funded by private individual and corporate contributions only — it does not receive any government funding).

Bret A. Rosenthal Patient Assistance Fund

Patients diagnosed with cancer at a younger age often face greater financial burdens. This is a time in a patient’s life when they are raising a family, starting a career, or have not accumulated savings. For patients 49 and under, the Foundation administers the Bret A. Rosenthal Patient Assistance Fund grant program. This program is made possible by the generosity of the Rosenthal family.

The Paul J. Laninga Memorial Scholarship, established by Tamara Laninga in memory of her husband, supports graduating seniors from Northwest Ottawa County pursuing careers in accounting or business. This competitive scholarship prioritizes students demonstrating financial need and academic excellence, while encouraging applications from those planning to attend public universities. It aims to honor Paul's zest for life and create positive opportunities for future leaders in business.

The North Ottawa Hospital Auxiliary Fund Scholarship, supported by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to students pursuing medical and healthcare-related degrees. Established in memory of Marjorie Hren Blohm, this scholarship prioritizes applicants from the Tri-Cities area who demonstrate financial need and academic achievement. Applicants must be at least second-year college students accepted into a relevant program, ensuring that qualified candidates receive the support they need to succeed in their educational pursuits.

The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, established in 1988, supports photography programs at museums and public institutions. It promotes photography's recognition alongside other art forms and contributes to HIV/AIDS medical research. Notably, it has funded major galleries and initiatives, donating significant collections to renowned museums. The Foundation aids curators in developing photography exhibitions and provides financial support for acquisitions, exhibitions, and publications, ensuring Mapplethorpe's artistic legacy endures.

The Roland Curtis and Willa Marie Barnes Nursing Scholarship, administered by the Decatur County Community Foundation, is designed to support Decatur County students pursuing degrees in nursing. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors and residents of Decatur County. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial burdens associated with higher education in the nursing field, ultimately contributing to a healthier community.