Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Texas

The Itron/CPS Energy Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in STEM fields with a focus on energy, water, and sustainability. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and be enrolled full-time at select San Antonio universities. Scholarships are renewable for up to three years, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to fostering education and community development. This initiative aims to empower the next generation of leaders in critical environmental and technological sectors.

The Simon Greenstone Panatier Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides annual scholarships totaling $50,000 for students affected by cancer. Eligible applicants include high school seniors from Dallas County or previous SGP recipients, who have a personal or familial cancer diagnosis. With a minimum GPA of 3.0 and SAT/ACT score requirements, this scholarship aims to support educational pursuits at accredited institutions across the U.S.

The Texas DPS Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides financial assistance to current or retired Texas Department of Public Safety employees and their immediate family members. Eligible applicants must be Texas high school graduates or foreign nationals residing in Texas for a year, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and standardized test scores. Scholarships can be applied at accredited colleges or universities in the U.S., fostering educational opportunities for those who serve the community.

Lysle and Ken Huddleston Scholarship

The Lysle and Ken Huddleston Scholarship Fund was created by the Huddlestons to help support Caribbean students studying at Midwestern State University, with preference to students from Trinidad and Tobago. The scholarship can be used for any field of study, undergraduate or graduate programs. To be eligible for the one-time $1,000 scholarship, students must have a cumulative 2.5 GPA.

The Stanley V. and Mary G. Mahalick Scholarship is a one-year award for deserving students from Mahanoy Area High School or Marian Catholic High School. Funded by the Center for Scholarship Administration, this scholarship supports students with a minimum GPA of 2.5 who demonstrate financial need and good moral character. Recipients may reapply for additional funding up to four years, provided they maintain full-time enrollment in an accredited college or university.

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. 

2026-2028 Adult Education Program Start-Up Grant (Cycle 2) 

The program purpose is to provide grant funding under Texas Education Code, Section 12.264 (b), to an eligible entity for costs associated with implementing an adult education program operated under the charter. 

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision: We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Bullis Family Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 1982 through the estate of Nettie A. Bullis, a fourth-generation resident of Macedon who was vitally interested in the area’s young residents.

Purpose of Scholarship

• To promote post-secondary education among residents who attended school in the Palmyra-Macedon School District for at least four years.

Award Details

• Number of recipients varies.
• Awards are renewable for a total of four awards paid over four years.
• Award paid in the Fall and sent with a request to be divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.
• Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision: We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Barnard-Kuichling-Acorn Society Scholarship

In 1932, $10,000 was bequeathed by the family of Ella Barnard to establish a scholarship fund for worthy young men and women to complete their education in college. Later, Sara Kuichling provided funds in memory of her husband, Emil, to provide education and training to students under age 24. More money was added later from the Acorn Society, founded in 1896 by Caroline Butts Stoddard. The combined funds were moved to the Community Foundation and now provide awards known as Barnard-Kuichling-Acorn Society Scholarships.

Purpose of Scholarship

• To provide scholarships for high school graduates living in Monroe County who are in the top 10 percent of their class and have financial need.

Award Details

• Number of recipients and award amounts vary.
• Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.
• Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The CSA Grace D. Dreher Memorial Scholarship supports deserving students from Stroudsburg High School. Funded by the Grace D. Dreher Memorial Trust, it offers one-year scholarships for full-time college enrollment at accredited institutions in the U.S. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Current recipients may reapply, but awards are not guaranteed and depend on the applicant pool each year.

The Om & Shanti Scholarship, funded by the Communities Foundation of Texas, offers four-year awards of up to $6,000 annually for graduating high school seniors from public high schools in Dallas or Collin Counties. Applicants are required to have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and preference is given to those pursuing a degree at an accredited Texas institution. This initiative aims to support local students in their educational aspirations.

The Lowell Teachers Scholarships, offered by Harvard University, allow middle and high school teachers to enroll in one Extension School course per term at half the tuition cost. This initiative promotes professional development by making Harvard's rigorous academic programs accessible to educators. Limited scholarships are available, encouraging early application. Note that these scholarships cannot be used for summer courses or combined with other financial aid, ensuring focused support for teachers dedicated to enhancing their skills.

The Celia Roosth Schoenbrun Scholarship Fund, established by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, awards $5,245 to support local Jewish undergraduate students from Smith County. Created in honor of Celia Roosth Schoenbrun, this scholarship aims to help deserving students pursue their academic aspirations at the university or college of their choice. The fund reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering education and empowering the Jewish community in Greater Dallas and beyond.

The Bill Jayson Jewish Studies Scholarship Fund, established by Hal and Janine Jayson, offers a $1,000 scholarship for local Jewish undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in Jewish Studies. This initiative honors Bill Jayson’s legacy and contributions to the Dallas Jewish community, aiming to enhance the academic and cultural understanding of students engaged in formal Jewish learning. The fund is managed by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, which supports various educational and cultural initiatives.

The Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages LLC Scholarship, offered by Communities Foundation of Texas, awards up to $5,000 to dependents of full-time Coca-Cola employees pursuing higher education in the U.S. Eligible applicants include high school seniors, college students, and graduate students with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Scholarships can be renewed annually for up to four years, providing ongoing support for education. Note that dependents of Executive Leadership Team members are not eligible.

The Ben and Dorothy Lewis Scholarship Fund, managed by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, provides a $900 scholarship for local Jewish students pursuing careers as community professionals. This initiative honors the legacy of Ben and Dorothy Lewis, encouraging future leaders to strengthen Jewish life through education. With a focus on philanthropy and community impact, the fund supports students in their academic endeavors, promoting the growth of Jewish communal leadership in the Greater Dallas area.

The Grossman-Sada Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time college students engaged in international exchange programs between Mexico and the U.S. This scholarship covers the cost of attendance for students pursuing a Bachelor's degree in any field. Since 1964, the foundation has played a vital role in enhancing community life through various grants and scholarships, emphasizing meaningful contributions for future generations.

The Gerry Frost Memorial Scholarship for the Arts Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time students pursuing an Associate's Degree in Fine Arts, particularly in Visual Arts such as ceramics, design, and digital arts. Eligible applicants include current high school seniors and college students with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Preference is given to female student artists, ensuring that contributions significantly enhance the community's artistic landscape.

The Andrew S. Jacobs Holocaust Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, offers a $1,250 scholarship to undergraduate and graduate students who complete at least one Holocaust studies course. This award honors Holocaust survivors and victims, promoting education and remembrance of this critical history. Open to students nationwide, it encourages deep engagement with Holocaust studies, fostering a commitment to understanding and sharing the lessons of the past.

The AOTF: Nedra Gillette Endowed Research Fellowship supports postdoctoral research in occupational therapy, focusing on interdisciplinary and cross-cultural studies of the human condition. With a one-year award of $5,000, the fellowship promotes innovative approaches to enhance client engagement and therapeutic practices. Eligible candidates must hold an OT degree and a relevant doctorate, conduct research at a US institution, and have IRB approval for their studies. This fellowship aims to advance the field through meaningful contributions.

WFACF Scholarship

The Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation Scholarship was established by WFACF in 2020 with donations from other fundholders and scholarship supporters. The one-time $1,000 scholarship is for graduating seniors of high schools in Wichita, Archer, Baylor, Clay, Montague, or Wilbarger, and Young County, who plan to attend Midwestern State University or Vernon College for any field of study. Applicants must have a 2.5 GPA and be a U.S. citizen. Financial need and community involvement will be considered.

Zavala Scholarship

The Zavala Scholarship Fund was opened at WFACF in 2014 to support students of the Hispanic community to pursue higher education. It has since transformed to consider any graduates of high schools in Wichita, Archer, Clay, Wilbarger, or Young County who have great financial need and a minimum 2.75 GPA, including current college students. There are multiple $1,000 scholarships available to be used for any field of study at any college or university in the U.S.

The David Jones Peck, MD Scholarship for Health Equity, offered by the American Medical Association Foundation, provides $10,000 in tuition assistance to medical students entering their final year. This scholarship aims to support those dedicated to addressing health disparities and promoting equity in marginalized communities. Open to all eligible students, it underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering diversity in medicine and empowering future healthcare leaders.

The Hedy and Fred Reisberg Scholarship Fund, established by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, offers two scholarships of $4,175 each for local Jewish undergraduate and graduate students. This initiative supports their academic and spiritual growth, enabling them to attend the university or Yeshiva of their choice. DJCF focuses on enhancing the Greater Dallas Jewish community through strategic philanthropic efforts, fostering generosity, and ensuring the sustainability of essential institutions.

The Julie G. Lowenberg Scholarship Fund, established by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, offers a $1,250 scholarship supporting local undergraduate and graduate students. This fund honors Julie Lowenberg and aims to assist motivated individuals committed to their academic pursuits. The scholarship encourages students to pursue higher education and personal growth, contributing to the enrichment of the Greater Dallas Jewish community and fostering a culture of learning and achievement.

The C.V.M. Scholarship Fund, established by Communities Foundation of Texas, offers up to $10,000 to graduates of Mildred Independent School District pursuing further education. Since 1953, CFT has collaborated with donors and nonprofits to uplift communities. Eligible candidates must have a GPA of 4.0 (out of 7.0) and meet SAT or ACT score requirements. This initiative aims to empower local students in their educational journeys.

The Common Cents Scholarship, offered by the Communities Foundation of Texas, provides up to two $3,000 scholarships to Dallas ISD students involved in the Common Cents philanthropy program. This scholarship can be utilized for tuition, books, and fees at accredited colleges, universities, trade, or vocational schools across the U.S. Eligible applicants must be current Juniors or Seniors at a Dallas ISD High School and must have participated in the program during the application year.

The Louis Shlipak Healthcare Scholarship Fund, managed by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation, awards $1,900 to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in healthcare. Established in memory of Louis Shlipak, this scholarship aims to honor his legacy by supporting dedicated students in their educational journeys, ultimately preparing them for impactful careers in the medical field. The DJCF is committed to strengthening the community through philanthropic efforts and fostering generosity.