Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The WM Four Corners Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America, aims to support students pursuing a Diesel or Heavy Equipment Mechanic major at accredited colleges or vocational schools in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, or Texas. This initiative addresses the need for financial assistance in education, particularly for underrepresented groups. Scholarship America has a long-standing commitment to making higher education accessible, having awarded over $5.7 billion in scholarships since its inception.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5430 - Unlocking Value and Opportunities from Carbon Flows in Water Utilities

Grant Information

• Identify carbon flows across drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, and advanced treatment systems. Carbon flows may include source water, stormwater, process emissions, process inputs, residuals, and biogas.
• Identify the most relevant carbon recovery, capture, conversion, storage, and avoidance opportunities.
• Evaluate value creation pathways, including products, avoided costs, and environmental attributes, and mechanisms and partnerships needed to put them into practice.
• Assess how opportunities vary across system types and local contexts by focusing on more common scenarios for utilities.
• Provide practical, research-based insights to support identification, prioritization, evaluation, and advancement of carbon management opportunities under site-specific conditions and constraints.
• Evaluate implications for greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, environmental attribute claims, and other potential benefits across pathways.

The 2025-2026 Amachi Texas program, administered by the Texas Education Agency, aims to provide essential mentoring relationships for children of incarcerated parents and at-risk youth. By connecting these young individuals with caring adult mentors, the program seeks to break the cycle of intergenerational incarceration, promote resilience, and empower youth to reach their fullest potential. This initiative is crucial for fostering positive development and educational success in vulnerable communities across Texas.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

The Welch Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship offers three-year funding of $97,000 annually for recent PhD graduates pursuing innovative chemical research in Texas. This program, in collaboration with the Life Sciences Research Foundation, supports fellows tackling significant chemistry-related challenges across various subfields. Successful candidates receive additional resources for research and professional development, fostering their academic careers. Applications are open to U.S. and international scholars committed to advancing chemical science through world-class training.

The Texas Department of Health and Human Services Commission invites applications for Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Reinvestment projects aimed at enhancing the quality of care for nursing facility residents. Eligible organizations, including advocacy groups and long-term care facilities, can propose initiatives that improve resident care and quality of life. Funding is available for projects outside normal operations, with a focus on evidence-based practices. Applications are accepted during specified periods each year.

The 2025-2026 ESC Title III, Part A Basic Supports program, overseen by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance English proficiency and academic success for emergent bilingual students, including immigrant youth. This initiative provides vital technical assistance and professional development to local educational agencies receiving Title III funds, ensuring they effectively support these students in achieving high levels of academic achievement in English. The program is essential for fostering educational equity across Texas.

The purpose of this announcement is to solicit applications for projects that prevent violence in and around school; and to improve the juvenile justice system by providing mental health services, truancy prevention, diversion services and intervention through community-based and school programs.

Eligible Activities include: Mental Health Services, Education programs or supportive services, Community Programs and Services, Youth Diversion Services and Juvenile Case Managers. 

The Nancy D. Palm Scholarship, administered by the Greater Houston Community Foundation, offers multiple $4,000 awards to college students in Texas majoring in elementary education for the 2026-27 academic year. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, attend a four-year college in Texas, and can reapply annually. The scholarship funds will cover tuition and academic fees, with strict requirements for enrollment and citizenship.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

Texas Council on Developmental Disabilities

TCDD is governed by a 27-member Council that includes people with developmental disabilities (DD), family members, and representatives from state agencies, university centers for excellence in DD, and other organizations. 

TCDD helps people with developmental disabilities (DD) achieve their potential for independence, productivity, and integration into their communities through the development of a comprehensive system of services and supports.

Conference and Event Stipends

Enhancing opportunities to attend disability-related events.

TCDD has funding available for Conference and Event Stipends to support people with developmental disabilities (DD) and family members attending disability-related events in Texas. Stipends are also available to support disability-related speakers at events.

Funding for these stipends is made available to TCDD through a grant from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C.

Stipend Intent

Conference and Event Stipends enable people with DD and their family members to attend established in-state professional or informational events such as conferences, workshops, seminars, or legislative advocacy training sessions. These events should provide participants with information and awareness about best practices in services and supports to people with DD or directly promote self-advocacy and self-determination. TCDD believes that participation in such events enhances opportunities for people with DD to exercise choice and control in their lives and can promote independence, productivity, and community inclusion of people with DD.

The stipends are limited to Texas residents who are not eligible for conference, workshop, or training reimbursement from other organizations of which they are an employee or a member. 

Stipend Requirements

 Applications must: 

• demonstrate that the event has educational or advocacy objectives related to DD issues;
• outline how the stipend will be used consistent with the TCDD mission, philosophical principles, goals, and objectives;
• provide assurance that funds will be used only to support the participation of people with disabilities that meet the federal definition of a developmental disability, or family members of persons who have DD, and who have no other organizational or agency source of funding to attend the event;
• provide assurance that a priority will be given to people who have not previously received TCDD stipend support; and
• describe the potential recipients of the stipend and how recipients will be selected for stipend support.

The Tabbotha McGee Memorial Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Tyler Legacy, Tyler High School, and Early College in Smith County, pursuing a nursing degree at Tyler Junior College. This scholarship is aimed particularly at African American students, student athletes, and those involved in HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America). Financial need is considered, with a one-year support period contingent on FASFA requirements.

Texas Council on Developmental Disabilities

TCDD is governed by a 27-member Council that includes people with developmental disabilities (DD), family members, and representatives from state agencies, university centers for excellence in DD, and other organizations. 

TCDD helps people with developmental disabilities (DD) achieve their potential for independence, productivity, and integration into their communities through the development of a comprehensive system of services and supports.

Translation & Interpretation Stipends

Reducing language barriers to access services and supports.

TCDD has funding available to support translation and interpretation services to reduce linguistic barriers among individuals with developmental disabilities (DD) and families to access services and supports in Texas. Funding for these stipends is made available to the TCDD through a grant from the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL), Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C.

Stipend Intent

TCDD stipend support is available to organizations or agencies to translate printed materials or provide verbal or American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services to reduce linguistic barriers and support people with DD and families. Translation may be offered to improve understanding and access to services and support or to inform people with DD and their families about their rights.

These stipends are intended to help reduce linguistic barriers so that all people with disabilities are fully included in their communities and exercise control over their own lives.

Stipend Requirements

The request must demonstrate that:

• the materials and messages translated with these funds are consistent with person-centered and family-centered philosophy;
• the outreach strategies will have the greatest impact to reach and include unserved and underserved populations in Texas; and
• the materials and messages are consistent with the mission, philosophy, goals, and objectives of the Council.

Limitations

TCDD stipends are intended to provide support to individuals and family members who would otherwise be unable to participate. Stipend awards should prioritize Texas residents who have not previously attended the event.

Terms

Multiple applications from an organization may be considered until the maximum allowed funding amount is reached.

Requests for Reimbursement (RARs) and activity reports must be submitted within 30 days after the translation or interpretation is completed. Payments are made based on reimbursement after the event is conducted. Documentation and receipts are required for all expenditures.

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.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

The Tatum Music Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors from select East Texas high schools pursuing a degree in Instrumental Music Education. Financial need is a key consideration, requiring FAFSA documentation. This renewable scholarship aims to empower students with a passion for music, reflecting the foundation's commitment to educational access and community enrichment within the region.

The Texans Feeding Texans Home-Delivered Meal Grant Program aims to enhance existing meal services for seniors and disabled individuals by providing essential funding. Counties can qualify for grants based on their senior populations, ensuring that meal providers receive $0.25 per eligible senior. This initiative supports the delivery of nutritious meals to homebound individuals, promoting health and well-being in Texas communities. The Texas Department of Agriculture collaborates with counties and providers to facilitate funding and ensure program success.

The Owens Marmion Varke Clinical Mental Health Counseling Scholarship is offered by the East Texas Communities Foundation to support graduating seniors from ETCF Counties pursuing higher education at UT Tyler. This scholarship aims to empower students entering the clinical mental health program, reflecting a commitment to education and community development. Financial need is not a consideration, allowing a broader range of applicants to benefit from this opportunity for academic advancement.

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.

Instructional Leadership Continuation Grant

The instructional leadership pathway will provide training, implementation support, and one-on-one coaching to campus and district leaders to build their own capacity and that of the educators that they manage. 

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.

2026-2027 Texas Strategic Compensation for ESCs Grant (TSCEG)

TEA’s Strategic Priority 1 is to Recruit, Support, and Retain Teachers and Principals. Achieving this priority entails supporting school systems in developing and implementing strategic compensation systems utilizing funds obtained through participation in the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) as well as local school systems dollars. The 2026-2027 Texas Strategic Compensation for ESCs Grant (TSCEG) seeks to engage Educational Service Centers (ESC) to provide direct on-going support to school systems as they replace the traditional step-and-ladder compensation system based on years of experience with a system based on performance that supports and rewards principals, assistant principals, and teachers who demonstrate effective teaching practices that result in increased student achievement.

Specifically, this grant entails hiring a Regional Assistant Superintendent of Talent (RAST) at the ESC level and engaging with a TIA approved Technical Assistance Provider. The RAST will engage directly on-site with the identified school system(s) supporting the development of a strategic compensation system, implementation of the TIA, and engaging with the school system around other state objectives developed to increase educator retention and recruitment. The RAST will engage with the Education Service Center building capacity to support strategic compensation systems and TIA in school systems across the region with an emphasis on supporting other school systems in adopting and amending their TIA spending plans in preparation for Enhanced TIA. 

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

Recruits outstanding senior research faculty with distinguished professional careers and established cancer research programs to academic institutions in Texas.

The Owens Marmion Barke Clinical Mental Health Counseling Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, aims to support UT Tyler students pursuing careers in mental health counseling. This scholarship prioritizes graduate students from underrepresented populations, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to enhancing diversity in the field. With a history dating back to 1989, the Foundation has a strong legacy of empowering students through educational opportunities, fostering a brighter future for communities in East Texas.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

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. 

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.