Provider Supports
Whether you are looking for a community of like-minded educators or microgrants or microloans to support your school program or education start-up, Texas offers an array of supports to education entrepreneurs, schools, and nonprofits seeking to make an impact in education.
- VELA’s Education Fund Microgrants—part of its broader nationwide effort launched in 2020—offer flexible awards (typically ranging from $2,500 to $10,000) to support innovative, nontraditional educational models such as microschools, co‑ops, and educator-led initiatives, with over $16.5 million awarded across all 50 states.
- The Building Hope Microloan Program provides low‑interest loans tailored for schools, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations seeking capital for facilities, growth, and sustainability—offering a powerful financing tool that complements grant-based support.
Startup & Growth Resources for School & Faith Leaders
- Popolo Family Foundation
Focused on expanding opportunity, advancing education, and supporting faith-based institutions.
They welcome grant proposals — especially from schools looking to start or expand under the Texas Education Freedom Accounts program.
- The Drexel Fund — Investing in New and Growing Schools
Actively partnering with outstanding school leaders across Texas as ESA implementation begins, investing in starting, growing, and replicating high-quality school models.
Interested?
- The Herzog Foundation — SchoolBox Training & Mentorship
A powerful (and free) program for launching new schools.
Includes an 8-step guide, customizable planning for traditional, homeschool, co-op, and hybrid models, and access to seasoned mentors.
New & Growing School Providers Preparing to Serve Texas Students
- KaiPod Catalyst — Empowering Texans to Start Schools
KaiPod partners with educators, parents, and faith leaders to launch microschools that meet local community needs.
KaiPod Catalyst is the nation’s largest microschool startup program, offering expert guidance and Texas-specific resources to help new school founders succeed.
- Primer Microschools — Personalized, Student-Centered Learning for K–8
Primer is a network of small, flexible schools focused on core academics and individualized learning.
Students get 100 minutes daily of mastery-based math and literacy, paired with project-based learning that allows them to explore their passions.
Primer’s model is customizable, adaptable, and built for sustainability — a great fit for innovative school founders.
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