Community Development Partnership Program Grants

The Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), a nonprofit public utility created by the Texas Legislature in 1934, is accepting applications for its Community Development Partnership Program (CDPP) grant cycle. As a regional organization with a mission centered on water stewardship, energy provision, and community service, LCRA supports a wide range of initiatives across Texas. Its CDPP grant program provides financial assistance to eligible entities to fund capital projects that enhance the well-being and infrastructure of Texas communities. The program is structured to support improvements to essential community facilities such as fire stations, community centers, libraries, and sports fields, as well as upgrades to emergency responder gear and equipment. Grants of up to $50,000 are available through this competitive funding opportunity. Although most awards tend to be for $25,000 or less, the program consistently includes several larger grants per cycle. Projects must demonstrate broad community benefit and result in the enhancement of a tangible capital asset—whether through renovation, construction, or the procurement of equipment. Importantly, the CDPP does not fund operating expenses, social services, or limited-use facilities, and grants are not available to individuals, for-profit entities, professional associations, or projects centered on political or sectarian activity. To be eligible, applicants must be tax-exempt nonprofit organizations or local government entities operating in one of the 73 designated Texas counties. Eligible applicant types include volunteer fire departments, emergency responders, schools, libraries, civic groups, and museums. A key requirement for applicants seeking more than $5,000 in funding is the provision of matching funds equivalent to at least 20 percent of the total project cost. This match requirement aims to ensure community investment and commitment to the success of the funded project. The application window for the current cycle opens on July 1 and closes at midnight on July 31. All applications must be submitted through the online portal at lcra.org/cdpp. The grant does not require pre-applications, letters of intent, or concept papers. Applications are reviewed based on project feasibility, community benefit, alignment with program goals, and financial readiness. While detailed evaluation criteria are not published, emphasis is placed on projects that support broad community access and the long-term sustainability of the asset being developed. For applicants seeking support or clarification, LCRA provides contact via email at [email protected] or by phone at 800-776-5272, extensions 3140 or 1627. Clara Tuma, Public Information Officer, can also be reached for media inquiries. Notification timelines and performance period specifics are not delineated in the current announcement. However, the program is administered biannually, with a consistent recurring schedule that allows for future planning and repeated opportunities for participation. The CDPP reflects LCRA's ongoing dedication to community enhancement through capital investment. By offering targeted, impactful funding to nonprofit and governmental entities, the program facilitates improvements that extend the utility and value of shared community assets. Organizations across Central and South Texas benefit from the program’s geographic reach, which encompasses a large portion of the state—from the Texas Hill Country to the Gulf Coast—affirming LCRA’s role as a pivotal community partner.