Houston Endowment accepts applications throughout the year and has no designated deadlines for the submission of requests. Each submitted application is reviewed and analyzed by members of the foundation staff, with particular attention given by an assigned grant officer. Final action is taken by the board of directors.

• Applicants will receive instant acknowledgment confirming receipt of online submissions.
• The foundation will contact applicants to request any additional information needed.
• The staff will not critique proposals or provide feedback about improving grant applications.
• All applicants will be notified in writing about any actions taken by the board of directors.

Pre-Application

In some cases, organizations will need to answer a few general questions as the first step in the submission process. This “pre-application” allows organizations to provide basic information so that foundation staff can ensure alignment with Houston Endowment’s grantmaking interests and restrictions. If there is clear alignment, the organization will be asked to complete the full application.

The pre-application is required in any of the following situations:

• The organization is applying to Houston Endowment for the first time
• The organization has never received a grant from Houston Endowment
• The organization or project is not based in Harris County or its contiguous counties (Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Liberty, Montgomery and Waller Counties)
• The applicant is routed to the pre-application through the online Grant Management System
• The organization plans to submit either a Public Policy and Engagement or Research  grant application
• A foundation staff person/grant officer requests a Pre-Application

Organizations should submit pre-applications through the online Grant Management System, and will typically receive a response by email within two weeks. To view or download a copy of the pre-application questions, click here.