Best Public Policy Grants in Texas

Qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in Texas running civic education, public policy, or democracy-focused programs can apply for the Sumners Foundation Grant to support direct programming costs. Hatton W Sumners Foundation funds initiatives like civic engagement activities, teacher training on founding documents, and youth or leadership programs on American democratic self-government.

Texas 501(c)(3) public charities and public entities serving Texans can apply for Meadows Foundation grants to support programs and projects in areas like civic and public affairs, civic leadership, and public systems. Organizations working on public policy-related initiatives in Texas, including capacity-building and community infrastructure, may be competitive, with proposals accepted once every 12 months.

With a mission to help build stronger communities, Vulcan Materials Company Foundation provides Texas public charities and government units with funding for education, STEM learning, and environmental stewardship. Organizations in Texas communities where Vulcan operates, especially those partnering with public schools or advancing science, engineering, or environmental understanding, may be competitive applicants, including programs touching public policy on sustainability and development.

Texas graduate students pursuing public policy, science, or technology studies can access funding through Harvard Kennedy School’s Charles Edison Fund Fellowship to support advanced education and research. This fellowship helps extend the scope and impact of the Science, Technology, and Public Policy Program for both U.S. and international students focused on public problem-solving.

Nonprofits and educational institutions working on food system public policy, farmed animal protection, or food systems transformation in Texas and beyond can apply for grants of US $2,500 - US $10,000. Grants from Stray Dog Institute help 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored groups advance sustainable agriculture, justice, and supply-side, systems-focused advocacy and research.

Muslim undergraduate and graduate students in film, television, acting, or theater who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients can receive US $3,000 - US $5,000 for their studies. Focused on media and public policy impact, Islamic Scholarship Fund invites Texas students and others nationwide to apply for support that advances positive American Muslim representation.

Texas law students in the Muslim community interning with state or federal judges can access funding through the Islamic Scholarship Fund’s Judicial Internship Scholarship. This U.S.-wide program provides a US $3,000 stipend for 1L and 2L students in unpaid, 8-week judicial internships, helping build skills for public interest and public policy law careers.

Texas law and public policy students committed to improving access to justice for Muslims in America can access funding through the Islamic Scholarship Fund. U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients enrolled full-time (or working full-time in an ISF-supported field and studying part-time) as seniors or 1L–3L students may receive US $5,000 - US $10,000 scholarships.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities and research institutions working on pollinator health, sustainable agriculture, and related public policy in Texas can seek funding for research, advocacy, and education projects. One Hive Foundation provides up to US $75,000 for initiatives linking science, policy, and community engagement, including work replicated across the U.S. and Canada.

Nonprofit and academic institutions working on U.S.-Japan public policy and related exchanges in Texas can apply for support to run research, education, public affairs, and exchange programs. The Japan-U.S. Friendship Commission funds institutional projects in arts and culture, education and public affairs, exchanges and scholarship, and global challenges that deepen U.S.-Japan understanding.

Nonprofit organizations working on early childhood development, preschool education, literacy, or policy advocacy can apply for funding up to US $20,000 to support children ages 0–5. Grants from Ohio Children’s Foundation help Texas public policy and early learning initiatives that serve at-risk children and families, including innovative pilots and established programs focused on school readiness.

Public policy PhD scientists across the U.S., including Texas, can apply for a one-year Congressional science fellowship to work on Capitol Hill using expertise in agronomy, crop, soil, or related fields. Grants from Crop Science Society of America help fellows engage directly with federal policy through congressional staff placements and structured policy orientations.

Researchers and research institutions conducting quasi-experimental evaluations of social programs and policies in Texas can seek support for rigorous causal studies from Arnold Ventures. With a mission to improve lives through evidence-based policy, Arnold Ventures provides funding for work in areas like public policy, higher education, workforce training, infrastructure, and reproductive health across the U.S.

Researchers and research institutions conducting randomized controlled trials of social programs can seek funding to evaluate public policy and governance initiatives, including work in Texas. Focused on rigorous RCTs, Arnold Ventures supports studies that build strong evidence on what works to address major social challenges and inform policy decisions across the U.S.

Graduate students in Earth system sciences attending North American universities can receive US $40,000 plus research visits and professional development to pursue atmospheric and Earth system science projects. Grants from University Corporation for Atmospheric Research help students, including those focused on public policy, explore science–society intersections that may inform policy-relevant work in Texas and beyond.

Ph.D. candidates researching public policy, politics, law, or related fields in Texas and beyond can apply for Jefferson Scholars Foundation’s National Fellowship Program to support dissertation completion and professional development. Fellows receive mentorship, a dedicated budget for research network activities, and participate in conferences and short residential visits at the University of Virginia or Hagley Library.

The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, awarded by the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation, supports future leaders in environmental, tribal public policy, and health care fields. With 55 scholarships of $7,000 each expected in 2025, this highly competitive program requires students to participate in their schools' internal competitions. Scholars benefit from networking opportunities and access to the Udall Alumni Network, fostering collaboration and growth in their respective fields.

Prospective or current MPP students focused on public policy and international affairs can apply for Harvard Kennedy School’s John Berger Fellowship, supporting graduates of Harvard College. Eligible students intending careers in U.S. or international institutions may benefit, including those from Texas planning to work on public policy and international issues.

Focused on public policy education, Harvard Kennedy School invites Texas and other U.S. students to apply for Kennedy Fellowships and Presidential Scholarships supporting graduate study in public policy and related fields. Awards are based on both merit and financial need, with some funding tied to area of study or region.

The Margaret Traub and Phyllis Dicker LGBT+ Graduate Fellowship, offered by the Harvard Kennedy School, supports students committed to issues affecting the LGBT+ community. This fellowship emphasizes the importance of diverse representation in public policy and leadership, aligning with Harvard's mission to foster a just and prosperous society. It is accessible to both U.S. and international students, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and merit-based funding.

The Public Policy & International Affairs (PPIA) Scholarship at Harvard Kennedy School is designed for alumni of the PPIA Junior Summer Institute. This scholarship aims to support both U.S. and international students by considering merit and financial need. Harvard Kennedy School is committed to fostering leadership and public policy expertise, making a significant impact on global societal issues. Recipients must have participated in the PPIA program to be eligible for this limited funding.

The Robert C. Seamans, Jr. Fellowship in Science, Technology, and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School supports students excelling in research and management at the intersection of technology and public policy. This fellowship fosters future leadership in these critical areas, ensuring a commitment to addressing pressing public challenges. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged, as the program is designed to promote inclusivity and recognizes the importance of varied perspectives in policy-making.

The Scott and Isabelle Black Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School supports students in two-year degree programs focused on addressing societal issues such as homelessness, poverty, and education. Awarded based on merit and financial need, this fellowship aims to cultivate future leaders in government and nonprofit sectors. It encourages studies that explore the causes and solutions to problems affecting vulnerable populations, ensuring that graduates are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The HKS American Service Fellowship provides full scholarships and stipends for mid-career public service leaders to pursue a one-year Mid-Career Master in Public Administration at Harvard Kennedy School. Targeting U.S. military veterans, public employees, and alumni of service programs, this fellowship emphasizes skill development and community impact. Participants learn from esteemed faculty and engage with a network of changemakers, equipping themselves to address pressing societal challenges and enhance their leadership capabilities.

The Native Forward Scholars Fund Internship Assistance Program empowers Native students by providing financial support for internships in non-STEM fields. This initiative breaks down financial barriers, enabling students to gain practical experience in areas like public policy, education, and cultural preservation. Through this program, students enhance their skills while contributing positively to their Tribal communities. The funding covers essential costs such as travel and living expenses, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial assistance.

The Municipal Workforce Learning Lab, initiated by the National League of Cities in partnership with the American Institutes for Research, aims to tackle workforce challenges faced by city governments. The program seeks three cities to engage in an 8-month action planning process focused on recruiting, training, and retaining skilled workers. Participants will receive free coaching and technical assistance, helping them enhance their workforce policies and potentially serve as national models for effective local government employment strategies.