Austin Community Foundation Awards $1.1 Million to Nonprofits and Boosts Local Entrepreneurs Through FundATX
As one of Central Texas’s most impactful philanthropic institutions, the Austin Community Foundation (ACF) is making headlines again with two major community-driven initiatives. On December 12, 2025, ACF announced the awarding of $1.1 million in general operating grants to 29 local nonprofits dedicated to advancing economic mobility. Just days later, the Foundation spotlighted the transformative power of FundATX, its impact investing program, which continues to fuel small business growth—especially among historically underserved communities.
Transforming Central Texas Through Strategic Grantmaking
ACF’s $1.1 million in funding was awarded through its two flagship programs: the Hispanic Impact Fund and the Women’s Fund. Each awarded $550,000 to organizations working to improve the lives of Hispanic families and women and children across Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Hays, Travis, and Williamson Counties.
These grants support a wide range of services—including early childhood education, job skills training, housing, women’s healthcare, and entrepreneurship. Remarkably, nearly one-third of the grant partners are first-time recipients, signaling the Foundation’s continued commitment to expanding its reach.
“Austin Community Foundation is honored to partner with nonprofits that are creating lasting pathways to opportunity,” said Meagan Anderson Longley, ACF’s Chief Impact Officer. “These grants reflect the power of community members coming together to invest in solutions that strengthen families, expand access to education and healthcare, and move Central Texas toward greater economic mobility.”
The selection process itself reflected ACF’s community-based approach. Nearly 170 residents, including individuals with lived experience in relevant focus areas, reviewed and vetted 125 grant applications.
Among this year’s grant recipients are AVANCE-Austin, Lilith Fund, Youth Justice Alliance, Open Door Preschools, and PeopleFund, each working in unique ways to build stronger, healthier, and more equitable communities.
Economic Mobility in Action: The FundATX Difference
While grantmaking remains a core part of ACF’s mission, its FundATX impact investing program is proving equally powerful. Designed to support local organizations through low-interest loans, FundATX reinvests capital into the community, creating a continuous cycle of opportunity.
One of FundATX’s most impactful partnerships is with PeopleFund, a nonprofit that provides education, capital, and mentorship to underserved entrepreneurs. Their Small Business Accelerator—which includes BIPOC and military-connected programming—has helped launch or sustain more than 415 businesses, creating over 1,500 jobs. An impressive 78% of these businesses remain operational three years after program completion.
Local entrepreneur Josh Whitehead, founder of Flora Coffee, shared how PeopleFund changed the trajectory of his business.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
“When traditional banks turned us away, PeopleFund believed in Flora Coffee,” said Josh. “PeopleFund didn’t just provide capital—they helped build resilience.”
Josh’s story illustrates how flexible capital, paired with mentorship and training, can help small business owners navigate financial hardships and come out stronger. His gratitude runs deep.
“What truly sets PeopleFund apart is their commitment beyond the loan,” he added. “They offer resources, mentorship, and guidance long after…it’s clear they’re investing in people and communities.”
A Proven Model for Local Philanthropy
Since its founding in 1977, Austin Community Foundation has managed over 1,300 charitable funds and distributed more than $635 million in grants. With $578 million in assets under management, ACF is a cornerstone of giving in Central Texas, known for connecting donors with causes and organizations that align with their values.
What sets ACF apart is its tailored approach. Whether someone wants to donate complex assets, establish a charitable fund, or invest directly in local businesses through FundATX, ACF offers the expertise and infrastructure to make it easy and impactful.
“To those considering investing in PeopleFund: your support has real, measurable impact,” Josh emphasized. “I’m living proof.”
How You Can Get Involved
If you live in Central Texas and want to be part of the change, there are several ways to engage:
-
Support ACF Funds: Make a direct donation to the Women’s Fund, Hispanic Impact Fund, or other strategic programs to advance economic mobility and equity.
-
Start Your Own Fund: Partner with ACF to establish a personalized charitable fund tailored to your giving goals.
-
Invest Through FundATX: Fundholders can direct impact investments to vetted organizations like PeopleFund to create measurable social returns.
-
Volunteer as a Grant Reviewer: Community participation is a pillar of ACF’s model. Join the next cohort of residents who help review grant proposals and guide funding decisions.
To learn more about how to give, get involved, or receive support, visit austincf.org.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a nonprofit leader, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, Austin Community Foundation provides the tools—and the community—to help you turn your generosity into lasting change.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.