Texas Music License Plate Grant

The Texas Music Office (TMO), part of the Office of the Governor’s Economic Development and Tourism Division, administers the Music Education & Community Program grant, also known as the License Plate Grant. Founded in 1990, TMO is the nation’s first state-level music office and continues to support the economic development of music-related enterprises and communities throughout Texas. This particular grant program is funded through sales of specialty Texas Music license plates, with $22 from each $30 plate fee allocated directly to supporting educational and community music initiatives. The purpose of the grant is to fund Texas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations engaged in music-related educational or community initiatives. Eligible projects may include programs that foster music education, youth music outreach, community music initiatives, or events that promote musical engagement within local communities. However, the specific allowable and restricted uses of funds are not detailed within the public notice. Applicants must demonstrate strong ties to Texas and compliance with tax and nonprofit requirements to be eligible. Applications for the Fiscal Year 2026 cycle will open in September 2025. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofits organized and based in Texas, in good standing with the state, and with no delinquent tax obligations are eligible to apply. Applications must be submitted via the Governor’s eGrants portal, which requires registrants to enter a 9-digit State Payee ID or Employer Identification Number. The application profile must include organizational information and designate four grant officials. The grant will fund projects with terms of up to 12 months, concluding no later than August 31, 2026. Award amounts range from a minimum of $1,500 to a maximum of $3,000. While small in size, these grants are intended to support focused initiatives with local impact. No cost match is required, and there is no specified limit on the number of awards. Applications are evaluated through the eGrants system, and detailed application requirements beyond the funding announcement are expected to be outlined within the portal. For assistance with the eGrants system, applicants are directed to contact the help desk at eGrants@gov.texas.gov. Additional application components and evaluation criteria are not specified in the available materials, and potential applicants are encouraged to begin preparations early. The Texas Music Office may issue this opportunity on a recurring basis, as future grant rounds are anticipated. Interested organizations should monitor the TMO’s website or subscribe to its newsletter for announcements and updates related to funding cycles, changes in requirements, or application assistance.

Start registration early in eGrants to ensure readiness by the September 2025 open date.