The Community Foundation of Abilene administers the Future Fund grant, which is dedicated to supporting organizations that serve children and youth in Abilene and Taylor County, Texas. The Future Fund is a membership organization within the Foundation composed of donors committed to addressing the needs of the community's youngest residents. Funds for these grants come from contributions to the Future Fund endowment, and are distributed annually through a structured grant cycle.

The purpose of the Future Fund grant is to support practical, impactful solutions to local issues affecting children and youth. Grant funds can be used for programs, special projects, or equipment, provided they directly benefit this demographic. Projects that promote collaboration among agencies, prevent as well as assist with identified problems, generate additional resources, and encourage volunteer involvement are especially encouraged. The Foundation evaluates applications based on organizational capacity, budget soundness, historical stewardship, and collaboration with similar efforts.

Grants typically range between $1,000 and $5,000. Only one grant may be awarded to an organization per 12-month period, and organizations must be in good standing with the Foundation, meaning they have submitted all required evaluation reports from prior grants. Applications that do not demonstrate a benefit to children or youth in the specified region will not be considered.

Eligible applicants include organizations with a current 501(c)(3) status, public entities requesting funds for charitable purposes, K-12 schools, and faith-based organizations with programs serving the community’s youth. All proposals must be submitted through the Foundation’s online grants management system, Foundant GLM. Required documents include a program budget, organizational budget, balance sheet, board list, and IRS tax status letter. First-time applicants must provide additional documentation as listed on the Foundation’s website.

Applications open on November 1 and are due by December 15 each year. Grant review occurs through January, with awards announced in mid-February. Evaluations are mandatory and must be completed online. The Foundation requires submission of outcome-focused evaluation forms, including financial documentation of how funds were used. Failure to submit these forms disqualifies applicants from future cycles.