Texas business owners searching for grants that are open right now in 2026 face a frustrating reality: there is no single list maintained by the state that shows every active program at a glance. Programs open and close on different schedules, some accept applications year-round, and others operate on annual or biannual cycles. This guide covers the major categories of Texas business grants that are generally accepting applications in 2026, with honest notes about what to verify before you apply.
Important: Specific deadlines and application windows change frequently. The information below reflects the general status of these programs as of early 2026. Always verify directly with the administering agency before beginning an application.
Programs That Typically Accept Applications Year-Round
Several of the most important Texas business programs operate on a rolling basis, meaning there is no single annual deadline. These programs are generally open throughout 2026, though funding availability may fluctuate:
- Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF): The state's flagship deal-closing fund operates on a rolling application basis. Businesses considering a major expansion or relocation to Texas can apply at any time, though awards require Governor's Office approval and typically involve large job-creation commitments.
- Skills Development Fund: Administered by the Texas Workforce Commission, this workforce training grant program accepts applications on a rolling basis. Businesses partner with a local community or technical college to submit proposals. Full guide to workforce training grants.
- SBA Microloans and 7(a) Loans: While these are government-backed loans rather than grants, they are available year-round through SBA-approved lenders. Guide to government-backed loans in Texas.
- Texas HUB Certification: Applications for Historically Underutilized Business certification are accepted year-round through the Texas Comptroller. How to get HUB certified.
Federal Programs Open to Texas Businesses
Federal grant and incentive programs represent some of the largest funding opportunities available to Texas businesses. Several key programs maintain open application periods throughout much of the year:
- SBIR/STTR: The Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs release solicitations from multiple federal agencies throughout the year. Each agency sets its own deadlines, so there are typically multiple open windows at any given time. These are true grants for research and development — not loans.
- USDA Rural Business Development Grants: Available to businesses in rural Texas counties, these grants fund business development, training, and planning activities. Application windows vary by state office. Guide to rural business grants.
- EXIM Bank and SBA Export Programs: Export financing and assistance programs are generally available year-round. Guide to Texas export assistance.
Programs with Annual or Periodic Cycles
Some of the most valuable Texas programs operate on defined cycles. Missing the window means waiting for the next round:
- CPRIT (Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas): CPRIT releases Request for Applications (RFAs) on defined schedules, typically with multiple rounds per year. Both research grants and product development awards are available, with varying deadlines throughout the year.
- Texas Commission on the Arts: Arts-related business grants follow an annual application cycle. Deadlines typically fall in the spring or early summer for the following fiscal year.
- State Trade Expansion Program (STEP): STEP grants for exporters are funded through annual federal appropriations. Application windows vary by year but typically open in the spring or summer.
- Chapter 313 Successor Programs: Property tax limitation agreements for large-scale projects follow legislative and Comptroller timelines that may shift based on policy changes.
Local and Regional Programs
Texas cities and counties maintain their own grant and incentive programs, each with independent timelines:
- City of Houston: Houston's economic development programs, including small business assistance and tax abatements, generally accept applications on a rolling basis. Houston grants guide.
- Dallas/Fort Worth: Both cities maintain active incentive programs with varying application windows. DFW grants guide.
- San Antonio: The San Antonio Economic Development Foundation and CPS Energy administer multiple incentive programs. San Antonio grants guide.
How to Stay Current on Open Programs
Because program availability changes throughout the year, here are practical steps to stay informed:
- Check agency websites directly. The Texas Governor's Economic Development and Tourism office, Texas Workforce Commission, and Texas Comptroller all maintain current program information.
- Monitor Grants.gov. All federal discretionary grants are posted on Grants.gov. Set up email alerts for your NAICS codes and keywords.
- Contact your local SBDC. Small Business Development Centers provide free counseling and can alert you to programs that match your business profile.
- Use a screening service. Rather than tracking dozens of programs manually, a screening service can match your business profile against active programs and alert you to relevant opportunities.
Bottom Line
There is no single "grant season" in Texas. Different programs open at different times, and some of the most important ones accept applications year-round. The key is knowing which programs exist, which ones match your business, and when each one accepts applications.
Not sure which programs may fit your business? Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs — grants, tax credits, loans, and incentives — and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →