AUSTIN, TEXAS — Austin Community Foundation (ACF) announced today it is awarding $2.5 million in grants to 130 nonprofit organizations through the Forever Austin Fund, a permanent community resource that allows ACF to invest in Central Texas’ evolving priorities year after year.
The 2026 grant cycle drew significant interest from across the region, with 459 letters of interest and 272 full applications submitted by nonprofits addressing urgent and systemic challenges. ACF staff, board members, fundholders, and 118 trained community reviewers evaluated applications and selected organizations within three strategic focus areas: economic mobility, health and humanities, and nurturing our region.
This year’s grant partners are working across Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis and Williamson counties to help families build wealth, increase access to health care, support arts and culture, and protect green spaces.
“The Forever Austin Fund reflects the generosity of donors who believed in investing in our region for the long term,” said Mike Nellis, CEO of Austin Community Foundation. “At a time when many nonprofits are navigating rising demand and uncertain funding, this permanent resource allows ACF to provide flexible support to organizations working every day to make Central Texas a more vibrant and equitable place to live.”
The Forever Austin Fund is supported by endowed and donor-directed funds established by individuals and families who wanted to create lasting benefit for the community. Through these funds, ACF makes grants that honor donor intent while responding to the region’s changing needs.
Awards range from $5,000 to $50,000 and provide flexible operating support that helps nonprofits strengthen capacity, sustain services and remain responsive to the people they serve.
Grants distributed by focus areas:
- Economic Mobility: $1.6 million awarded to 75 organizations helping Central Texans stay housed, access career pathways, grow small businesses and build long-term wealth.
- Health and Humanities: $677,000 awarded to 38 organizations expanding access to health care services and sustaining the arts, cultural experiences, and creative communities that help define Austin’s quality of life.
- Nurturing Our Region: $280,000 awarded to 17 organizations protecting green spaces, enhancing environmental stewardship, and supporting the well-being of animals.
More details and a complete list of 2026 grant partners are available at austincf.org/ForeverAustinGrants.
