Rockwell Fund is a private foundation established in 1931 through the estate of James M. Rockwell, a lumber entrepreneur. With its headquarters in Houston, Texas, the foundation was formally incorporated in 1949 and continued to grow as the estates of the Rockwell children contributed to its assets. Over time, Rockwell Fund evolved from a traditional family-led philanthropic organization into a more focused, strategic grantmaker. Its modern approach emphasizes defined funding priorities, capacity building, and collaborative partnerships to advance community change in the Greater Houston area.
Beginning in 2025, Rockwell Fund will prioritize its Community Development Docket, concentrating its grantmaking on Super Neighborhood 52, a region aligned with planning efforts such as the Complete Communities Action Plan for Kashmere Gardens. Grants may support areas including Community Leadership, Capacity Building, Flood Resilience, Housing, Food Access, Health & Wellness, Mobility, Parks & Infrastructure, and Education. Funding is generally directed to nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations. Grants can be used for general operations, specific programs or projects, capacity building, planning, or evaluation.
While some grant opportunities are invitation-only, Rockwell Fund operates an open application process for other categories. Invitations or submissions do not guarantee funding. Grants are not awarded to individuals or for purposes such as annual drives, capital campaigns, endowments, fundraising events, or organizations requiring expenditure responsibility, such as certain private foundations. Institutions like parochial or private K–12 schools and houses of worship are also ineligible.
The 2025 fourth quarter application window opens September 15 and closes October 17, with final board decisions scheduled for December 4. Applicants should align proposals with strategic priorities rather than target population groups, though demographics served are considered. Most recent data shows 66% of grants funded project-based efforts, with 34% supporting general operations.
Evaluation focuses on alignment with issue-area strategies and responsiveness to community needs. The foundation does not specify evaluation metrics publicly, but submission materials must align with its strategic funding goals. Inquiries may be directed to Rockwell Fund's main office via phone or email. As of 2026, all grants are expected to support the Community Development Docket exclusively.
