Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The Elevance Health Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to address significant challenges in mental health and substance use disorders. With a commitment of up to $90 million over three years, the Foundation seeks partnerships with nonprofits to enhance treatment access, promote prevention strategies, and alleviate loneliness among affected individuals. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions and measurable outcomes, targeting both national and local programs, particularly in states with pressing health disparities.

The Danny Gunn Memorial Scholarship, established by Melinda Gunn in memory of her husband, honors the legacy of a dedicated agriculture teacher and FFA advisor. Awarded by the Community Foundation of West Texas, this scholarship supports graduating seniors from Area 1 FFA Texas high schools who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. With a commitment to fostering future leaders in agriculture, it aids students pursuing higher education at Texas Tech University or Texas A&M University.

The Gulf Coast Society of Health-System Pharmacists Leadership Scholarship, established in 2000, awards $500 to $1,500 to pharmacy students based on leadership, service, and academic standing. It aims to support those who are active in school and community service, demonstrate leadership skills, and maintain good academic standing. This scholarship underscores the commitment of the TSHP Research and Education Foundation to enhance pharmacy practice and education in Texas.

Rural Communities Health Care Investment Program

The Texas Department of Agriculture (TDA) utilizes funds to assist rural communities in recruiting health care providers other than physicians to practice in their community by providing partial student loan reimbursements or stipend payments to non-physicians. The Rural Communities Health Care Investment Program (RCHIP) utilizes funds from a permanent endowment established from the tobacco settlement for the State of Texas and authorized under TEX. GOV'T CODE Sec. 487.558. The authority for this program is provided in Texas Government Code Chapter 487, Subchapter M, and Texas Administrative Code Chapter 30, Subchapter B.

The SORH awards $10,000 student loan repayment/stipends to eligible non-physician licensed healthcare providers in response to the recruitment and retention needs of medically underserved areas (MUA) in Texas. Selected participants must agree to work, and complete, a 12-month service obligation in a qualifying community to receive the student loan repayment/stipend.

2026-2027 Elementary Reading Initiative

Program Description

The Elementary Reading Initiative (ERI) provides districts with Technical Assistance to support districts leaders, campus leaders, and educators to implement high-quality instructional materials and research based instruction.

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

The Elementary Reading Initiative (ERI) provides districts with Technical Assistance to support districts leaders, campus leaders, and educators to implement high-quality instructional materials and research based instructional strategies, develop effective intervention systems, and manage continuous improvement cycles. This grant will be supplemental to existing requirements for campuses and districts and target districts with 1,000-12,500 students and at least 40% economically disadvantaged students system-wide.

The James T. Doluisio Scholarship, established in 1998 by the TSHP Research and Education Foundation, honors the former Dean of The University of Texas College of Pharmacy. It supports Texas pharmacy students with scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,500 based on financial need and academic merit. Although no scholarship will be awarded in 2025, this initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to advancing healthcare through education and research, fostering the next generation of pharmacy professionals.

The Jackson Huse Scholarship, offered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors in Texas attending any college. This scholarship is uniquely designed for students who have experienced the loss of a sibling due to a terminal illness or accident. Financial need is not a consideration, and the scholarship provides support for one year. It reflects the Foundation's commitment to empowering students through education and honoring their personal experiences.

The Sherilyn A. Willis, MD Medical Scholarship, established by the East Texas Communities Foundation, aims to support medical students enrolled or accepted in Texas colleges. This scholarship reflects a commitment to education and is designed for those pursuing a career in medicine. Financial need is not a consideration for applicants. The scholarship is available for one year, providing essential support for students dedicated to their academic and professional goals.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

Simmons First Foundation: Environmental Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $25,000

These funds are to be used for conservation and/or environmental purposes. We prefer the projects support the overall theme of youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care, however, we do have flexibility on projects that will have an indirect impact on youth. Categories for this grant include, but not limited to: water, air, hunting/fishing, forestry, outdoor education, energy, etc.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

Simmons First Foundation: Mini Grant

Amount:

• $1,000 up to $2,500 
•  Projects must pertain to youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care. Mini Grants are for immediate (long-term) needs for programs and entities must be a 501c3 organization.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Monitor/Conservator 2.0 Resource Development project, overseen by the Texas Education Agency, aims to enhance and implement strategies that strengthen academic, financial, and governance practices in intervention districts. By refining existing resources and developing new tools, the initiative seeks to improve outcomes for students. Collaborating with appointed monitors and conservators, the project will deliver essential resources, including diagnostic tools and onboarding materials, ensuring sustainable support for school systems through effective governance.

The Joni Elaine Templeton Foundation Grant aims to support qualified 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in Texas, particularly those serving the Austin community. With a focus on various program types including education, human services, and animal-related initiatives, this foundation honors the legacy of Ms. Templeton, who was known for her generosity and commitment to charitable purposes. The foundation seeks to make a positive impact through its funding efforts.

The Jack and Martha Carter Grant, offered by the Native Plant Society of New Mexico, supports projects that enhance public understanding of native plants and their conservation. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at educational, ecological, and botanical research initiatives. Both members and nonmembers are eligible, with a focus on practical, innovative proposals that align with the Society's mission. Applicants must report on their project outcomes, fostering accountability and continued support for environmental efforts.

Learning Acceleration Support Opportunities (LASO)

Learning Acceleration Support Opportunities (LASO) is a single, consolidated application that combines grants, in-kind supports and services, and allotment opportunities, bundled around a  few key strategies to accelerate academic gains.

LASO 26-27 (Cycle 5) will offer 21 opportunities anchored in five learning acceleration strategies

Strategic Planning

Strategic planning and performance management to prioritize, launch, and continuously improve learning acceleration strategies

Curriculum and Instruction

Rigorous, high-quality instructional materials designed to make up ground and master grade level TEKS

Strategic Talent Systems

Strategic talent systems invests in robust teacher pipelines and compensation systems that elevate instructional quality and help schools recruit & retain exceptional educators

More Time

More time for the students in most need, including expanding instructional time in the summer and with targeted tutoring

Innovative School Models

Innovative school models to incorporate all of the learning acceleration framework

The UTEP SOP/EPASHP Scholarship, provided by the TSHP Research and Education Foundation, offers financial assistance ranging from $500 to $1,500 to pharmacy students native to the El Paso area. Established to recognize leadership in pharmacy, this scholarship supports those enrolled in the UTEP School of Pharmacy. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and community involvement, ensuring that the scholarship benefits those committed to advancing healthcare in Texas.

The Eustacio Galvan Memorial Scholarship, established in 2003, honors a distinguished leader in health-system pharmacy, Eustacio Galvan. Funded by the TSHP Research and Education Foundation, this scholarship supports full-time pharmacy students in Texas, emphasizing financial need and academic excellence. Scholarships range from $500 to $1,500, with a preference for applicants of Hispanic/Latino descent. This initiative continues to strengthen the pharmacy community and promote high standards in patient care.

The Frederick W. Mullin Endowed Pharmacy Scholarship Fund, established in 2024 by Frederick W. Mullin, supports pharmacy students in Texas. With scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,500, it emphasizes financial need, academic excellence, and commitment to the pharmacy profession. This initiative is managed by the TSHP Research and Education Foundation, which has advanced pharmacy education and research since 1977, reflecting a strong dedication to improving health outcomes in Texas.

The Gene Lake Scholarship, established in 2001 by the TSHP Research and Education Foundation, supports pharmacy students in Texas, particularly those from West Texas. Scholarships range from $500 to $1,500 and are awarded based on financial need and academic merit. Applicants must be enrolled in a Texas pharmacy school and demonstrate a commitment to community service. This initiative honors Gene Lake, a dedicated advocate for pharmacy education and patient care.

The grant funds will support enhancements to module preparation, expansion of accessibility supports, and the design and development of American Sign Language instruction and professional networking opportunities. Funding also will be used to strengthen recruitment efforts for the next cohort with a target enrollment of up to 15 students.

The Hopper Prize, offered by the Texas Commission on the Arts, invites artists and photographers worldwide to apply for Fall 2025 awards totaling $13,000. With increased prize amounts of $4,500 for two winners and four additional awards of $1,000, this opportunity provides significant financial support. The application fee is $40, and selected artists will gain exposure through a shortlist and online platforms, connecting their work with a broad audience of art professionals.

The Glenda Lawson McRee Scholarship, established in 2002 by the TSHP Research and Education Foundation, honors the legacy of Glenda Lawson McRee, a dedicated advocate for student mentorship in pharmacy. It provides financial support ranging from $500 to $1,500 to eligible students enrolled in Texas pharmacy schools who demonstrate commitment to community service and a passion for the pharmacy profession. Applicants must be TSHP members and receive faculty endorsement.

The Gladys & Thomas "T.B." Stewart Texas College Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports graduating seniors and current students at Texas College. This renewable scholarship is designed for those pursuing any field of study, with financial need considered through the FASFA application. Established to empower students in their educational journeys, it reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering academic success and community development in East Texas.

The East Texas Geological Society Scholarship, administered by the East Texas Communities Foundation, supports students majoring in Geology. Established to foster educational pursuits, this scholarship is available to undergraduate and graduate students who are at least sophomores at the time of application. The foundation, created in 1989, has a rich history of providing financial assistance to enhance educational opportunities in East Texas, reflecting a strong commitment to community development.