Eligibility

Texas public schools, school districts, and nonprofit organizations serving youth may apply. Programs must target underserved or underrepresented youth and focus on connecting participants to outdoor recreation, conservation, or environmental education in Texas. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status or be a public school entity.

Program Goals

The CO-OP Grant Program, administered by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, helps organizations create or expand outdoor recreation and conservation education opportunities for Texas youth who have limited access to the outdoors. The program funds activities including hiking, fishing, wildlife observation, and environmental science programs that take place at Texas parks and natural areas.

Application and Distribution

Applications are submitted online through the TPWD grant portal by November 1 each year. TPWD reviews proposals based on the number of youth served, geographic diversity, and program quality. Funds are distributed to award recipients in the following calendar year. Organizations must show a plan for how youth will be transported to outdoor sites and demonstrate prior experience in youth programming.

Cycle Notes

CO-OP runs on an annual cycle with a November 1 deadline. Projects are funded for the following year. Award amounts vary by project size and scope. Visit tpwd.texas.gov for current RFA details and to confirm deadline dates.

Grant Award Amount

CO-OP grants provide up to $10,000 per project. Funds can cover program staff, transportation, outdoor equipment, and materials directly tied to the approved outdoor education activity. General overhead and administrative costs are generally not covered.

Allowable Purchases

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for CO-OP Grants in Texas?

Texas public schools, school districts, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving K-12 youth may apply. Programs must focus on outdoor recreation or conservation education and primarily serve underrepresented youth populations.

How much funding is available through CO-OP Grants?

CO-OP grants award up to $10,000 per project. The program is competitive, and award amounts depend on project scope and the number of students served.

Can CO-OP Grant funds be used for STEM and coding tools?

Yes. CO-OP Grant funds can support hands-on STEM materials, physical computing kits, and coding curriculum when they align to the program's stated goals. Document alignment to program objectives before purchasing.

How do Texas schools apply for CO-OP Grants?

Applications are submitted online through TPWD's grant portal by November 1 each year. Proposals must describe the outdoor activity, target population, transportation plan, and budget. Visit tpwd.texas.gov to access the current application.

How can Forward Education help with CO-OP Grant funding?

Forward Education provides curriculum alignment documents, official pricing letters for grant budgets, and letters of support for Texas schools. Our STEM kits are purpose-built to meet the learning outcomes CO-OP Grants fund. Contact us before submitting your application.