types of investments

The Kempner Fund invests through application-based grantmaking, PRIs (program-related investments), MRIs (mission-related investments), discretionary gifts, and a Kempner Family Matching Gifts Program.

Learn More About Our Grant Programs
To explore the specific eligibility requirements, application processes, grant cycle milestones, deadlines, and FAQs for each of our grant programs, please visit the links below.

Strategic, Micro-Funding Programs

Core Grants Program

  • 1-year and multi-year grants

PRIs and MRIs

To begin the process for any grant type, all requests start with the eligibility screening. You’ll find the Eligibility Screening button on each grant program page.

Grant Size Guidelines

As a modest-sized foundation, most of our grants fall within the $20,000 to $50,000 range. Larger or multi-year grants are awarded selectively, based on alignment and available resources. These are guidelines—not strict limits—but if your organization is considering a large or multi-year request and/or is new to the foundation or not currently receiving funding at that level, we encourage you to contact our office for guidance.

One-Year Grants: $20,000–$75,000

Multi-Year Grants:

    • Empowered Youth, Vibrant Culture, and Resilient Island: $20,000–$75,000 per year

    • Stable Housing: invitation only

      For 2025, the Kempner Fund has issued a $500,000 PRI to the Galveston Essential Workforce Housing Fund in support of workforce housing in Galveston.

    • Strong Nonprofits: invitation only

      For applicants seeking support for their organizations’s capacity building or other organizational development needs, please see our Navigation Fund grant program.

Note: Grant size ranges are provided as a guideline. Final award amounts will be determined based on the scope of the project, alignment with our program priorities, and available funding.