Best Quality of Life Grants in Texas

The Eugene Straus Charitable Trust Grant focuses on supporting charitable organizations in Dallas County, Texas, for the purpose of erecting and maintaining permanent building improvements. Established in 1974 by Eugene Straus, the trust primarily grants one-year funding, with occasional multi-year support. It serves areas of arts, education, environment, health, human services, and religion. Organizations with annual budgets under $20 million are eligible, while general operating requests are not considered.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

The Oliver Foundation

The Oliver Foundation was founded by Mrs. William B. Oliver (Cluthe) in 1995 and official programs for the Prevention of Childhood Obesity began in 2004. The foundation is dedicated to the prevention of childhood obesity.

The Oliver Foundation is a Houston-based 501(c) (3) non-profit operating foundation dedicated to the prevention of childhood obesity. We provide funding of various levels and time frames to qualified grant recipients. The grants, by application, are based on the Oliver Foundation’s Seven Healthy Messages to promote a healthy lifestyle to kids and teens, referred to as “The Seven Healthy Choices!”

• Choose 5-A-Day servings of fruits and vegetables.
• Have more water and less sugary beverages.
• Opt for healthy snacks.
• Increase active play and decrease screen time.
• Choose 3-A-Day servings of low-fat dairy products.
• Enjoy a healthy breakfast.
• Serve a smart portion size.

Healthy Choices Garden Grants Level 2

The goal of the Oliver Foundation is to encourage children, families and communities in Texas to improve the eating and physical activity patterns of Pre-school, Elementary, Middle School and High School students.

Garden Grants are awarded for a two-year (4 semesters) or longer program at the campus level (K-12th grade) that incorporates a minimum of 5 of the 7 Healthy Messages. A physical activity and nutrition educational component are required as 2 of the 5 or more Healthy Messages. A garden coordinator and supporting staff are required to maintain the garden upkeep. In addition to students, parent and community involvement is encouraged.

Level 2 grants are intended to create a long-term sustainable program at the campus level. All programs must have a sustainability plan. Grants that are purchasing equipment or supplies that are on an annual renewal basis, the grant must include a plan to renew said equipment/supplies for subsequent years.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The NRA Foundation: Texas Grants support charitable initiatives that align with the foundation's mission to promote firearms safety, education, and research. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized entities, government bodies, and state-recognized nonprofits. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance public understanding of firearms and support shooting sports. Organizations not meeting the criteria, such as labor groups and private businesses, are ineligible. This grant fosters community engagement and safety in relation to firearms.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo offers grants to Texas-based 501(c)(3) charities and accredited educational institutions. These grants support programs that benefit youth, education, agricultural development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. With over $89 million awarded to more than 100 organizations, the program emphasizes alignment with its mission pillars. Eligible entities include faith-based organizations for non-sectarian projects, while ineligible projects range from new initiatives under three years to capital projects and fundraising events.

Texas Education Agency 

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal1 and state grant awards to its subgrantees2 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. The following Program Guidelines apply to all eligible subgrantees for the designated grant program.

ESC Texas Instructional Leadership (TIL) Lead Grant

This grant seeks to provide ongoing support and skill building opportunities to ESCs to allow them to grow their internal systems and structures to train, support, and coach ESC TIL coaches.

The Texas History Grant Program, supported by The Summerlee Foundation, aims to fund diverse projects that preserve Texas's rich history. Since 1988, it has encouraged proposals from various disciplines, including archaeology and education, focusing on underserved areas. While National Register Status enhances proposals, it is not mandatory. The program seeks strong community support and well-qualified participants to strengthen applications, ensuring impactful contributions to Texas's historical narrative.

The Albert and Mary Dick Charitable Trust, established in 1991, supports religious, charitable, scientific, and literary initiatives, primarily focusing on organizations in Victoria County, Texas. Grants are aimed at promoting higher education, assisting youth, and preventing cruelty to children and animals. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. The Trust emphasizes local impact, specifically aiding programs related to education, health, and the environment.

The CHS Foundation offers funding for innovative projects in precision agriculture and data analytics. This annual grant program supports colleges and universities focusing on enhancing agronomy and ag mechanics curriculum. Applications are accepted from April 15 to May 31, with priority given to initiatives that foster hands-on learning and technology development. Eligible projects should emphasize data analysis and improve students' understanding of agricultural technology, while adhering to funding guidelines.

The Charter School Support and Improvement Grant (CSSIG) aims to enhance charter school effectiveness in Texas by providing essential support and technical assistance. This initiative focuses on improving operational and academic standards to boost student outcomes and increase the number of high-performing charter campuses. The Texas Education Agency oversees this program, ensuring that quality education reaches over 5 million students across the state, backed by both state and federal funding.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

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. 

Carl D. Perkins Community and Technical Colleges Consolidated Grant

Program Description

The purpose of this Act is to develop more fully the academic, technical, employability, and career and technical skills knowledge of secondary education students and postsecondary education students who elect to enroll in career and technical education (CTE) programs or other areas of study.

There are four parts: Perkins Formula Grant; Perkins Leadership Grant; Perkins Nontraditional Grant; and Perkins Administration Grant

Perkins Nontraditional Grant

Funding awarded through this grant must be used for services that prepare individuals for nontraditional fields. The grantee should provide CTE programs and instruction for students enrolled in CTE courses that are nontraditional for their gender. Effort is to be made to eliminate sex bias and stereotyping in curriculum, instruction, and services.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is launching the 2025-2027 Development of Accelerated Supports Grant Program to provide essential support for K-12 education. This initiative aims to enhance curricular resources in Reading Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies, ensuring local educational agencies receive the necessary tools to improve student outcomes. Through this program, TEA seeks to empower school districts, charter schools, and other educational institutions to foster better learning environments.

The Charter School Program (Generation 30) is designed to provide financial support for planning, program design, and initial implementation of charter schools in Texas. It aims to foster the development of high-quality charter schools, particularly those that focus on enhancing academic outcomes for students who are educationally disadvantaged. Managed by the Texas Education Agency, the program plays a pivotal role in improving educational access and quality for over 5 million students statewide.

The Ryan Foundation, established in 1983, aims to support charitable causes primarily in Fort Worth and Tarrant County, Texas. Grants range from $5,000 to $1,000,000, with a typical grant size around $30,000. Organizations must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status to be eligible. The Foundation prioritizes health care, education, and the arts while specifically excluding individual loans and out-of-state projects. Interested parties should submit a letter of inquiry before full applications.

The Betty Stieren Kelso Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in San Antonio and Bexar County through support for arts, education, health and wellness, animal welfare, and wildlife conservation. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that empower youth, promote health, and protect animal welfare, reflecting Mrs. Kelso's commitment to community enrichment. Organizations eligible for funding are primarily 501(c)(3) nonprofits, dedicated to making a positive impact in these focus areas.

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. 

2026-2027 MEP Systems Initiative

Program Description

The purpose of this program is to support high-quality and comprehensive educational programs and services during the school year and, as applicable, during summer or intersession periods, that address the unique educational needs of migratory children; ensure that migratory children who move among the States are not penalized in any manner by disparities among the States in curriculum, graduation requirements, and challenging State academic standards; ensure that migratory children receive full and appropriate opportunities to meet the same challenging State academic standards that all children are expected to meet; to help migratory children overcome educational disruption, cultural and language barriers, social isolation, various health-related problems, and other factors that inhibit the ability of such children to succeed in school; and help migratory children benefit from State and local systemic reforms.

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.

2026-2028 SSI Community Partnerships Continuation C2 Y7

Program Description

The purpose of this program is to support significant improvements in educational and developmental outcomes for children and youth who live in distressed communities by providing access to great schools and creating strong partnerships to increase family and community support that will prepare students to receive an excellent education from early learning and progressing to college and a career.

The Texas Preservation Trust Fund Grant, administered by the Texas Historical Commission, provides matching grants to support the preservation of Texas' historic and archaeological resources. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000, requiring a 1:1 cash match. The program prioritizes endangered properties and significant archaeological sites, focusing on activities like restoration, preservation planning, and heritage education. This initiative aims to protect Texas' cultural heritage while enhancing community identity and economic development through historic preservation.

The Kalliopeia Foundation Grant focuses on supporting projects that foster cultural and ecological renewal through a deep reverence for the Earth. By prioritizing US-based organizations that demonstrate strong community relationships and intergenerational leadership, the foundation seeks to empower marginalized voices and traditional practices. With an emphasis on land care and Indigenous leadership, Kalliopeia aims to cultivate a resilient future where diverse ways of knowing and being thrive harmoniously with nature.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees the Texas Mathematics Academies, which provide evidence-based mathematics instruction for students in kindergarten through grade 3. TEA allocates grant funding to Region 11 and Region 13 Education Service Centers to coordinate statewide program operations, content development, and professional learning. This initiative ensures high-quality implementation aligned with TEA’s instructional vision, ultimately aiming to enhance educational outcomes across Texas.

The Texas Bar Foundation Grant supports programs that enhance justice in Texas, focusing on legal services for the underserved, ethics in the legal profession, and public education about the legal system. Over $1,600,000 will be awarded this year to non-profits aligned with these goals. Grants are exclusively for 501(c)3 charities, with a total of $871,270 distributed to 70 organizations in the Fall 2024 cycle, contributing to over $28 million in grants since inception.

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. 

MATHCOUNTS Grant

Program Description

The purpose of the MATHCOUNTS grant is to provide financial support to the Texas Engineering Foundation (TEF) in its efforts to sponsor and lead the Texas MATHCOUNTS program. MATHCOUNTS provides mathematics programs and state-of-the-art supplemental math instructional materials to build math skills, promote critical thinking and problem solving, and heighten interest of middle-school students in mathematics. Through the MATHCOUNTS Competition Program, students take part in individual and team competitions. Competitions begin at the local level with the opportunity for winners to move on to compete at regional and national levels.

The Mervin and Annette Peters Family Foundation Grant supports health and human services primarily in Brazos County, Texas. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt to qualify. Applications are accepted year-round, with a submission deadline of July 31 for the annual grant meeting in August. The foundation focuses on protecting health and providing essential services, ensuring assistance for those in need. Program areas include arts, education, health, and religion, emphasizing community support.

The Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation provides vital support to nonprofit organizations in Texas, focusing on charitable, educational, and scientific initiatives. It prioritizes research and education-related projects that promise long-term benefits. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, scholarships, or political activities and prefers not to support fundraising events or school-related sports teams. This ensures its grants are directed towards impactful and sustainable community projects.