To Apply:
The M.B. & Edna Zale Foundation takes a relationship-driven, community-informed approach to grantmaking. Our goal is to partner with organizations that are deeply rooted in and responsive to the communities they serve.
Our grantmaking is focused on two primary areas: Workforce Development and Basic Needs, serving young people ages 16–24+, particularly young mothers and those facing barriers to employment.
Funding is concentrated in the following geographies:
El Paso (basic needs of young mothers and workforce development)
Amarillo (workforce development)
Dallas (the basic needs of young mothers in zip codes 75215/75216)
Rural East Texas (exploratory learning for both basic needs and workforce development).
We ask organizations to review our Grant Guidelines to understand our priorities and approach.
In addition to our primary areas, the Foundation is exploring a secondary area of giving focused on Jewish culture and continuity. This work is still in development.
What We Fund.
Workforce Development
Programs that help young people build skills, access employment, and achieve long-term economic mobility in Texas, specifically El Paso, Amarillo, and Rural East Texas.
Basic Needs
Efforts that ensure young people—especially young mothers—have access to essential supports such as housing, childcare, and food, enabling participation in workforce opportunities.in Texas, specifically El Paso, select communities in Dallas, and Rural East Texas.
Jewish Culture & Continuity
This work is still in development, and we do not yet have defined priorities or application processes. We expect to share more as this work evolves.
At this time, we are not accepting inquiries or requests related to this area.
Inquiry Process
While most organizations are identified through our outreach, we welcome brief inquiries from organizations that closely align with our priorities.
If, after reading our Grant Guidelines, you feel that your work strongly aligns with our focus areas, population, and geographic regions, you may submit an introductory inquiry through our online form.
Due to the volume of requests, we are not able to respond to all inquiries or invite all organizations to apply.
Application Process
Selected organizations may be invited into the following process:
Initial Review – Assessment of alignment with our priorities
Invitation to Apply – Submission of a short proposal or existing materials
Conversation – Discussion with Foundation staff and, when appropriate, program committee members
Funding decisions are made through a thoughtful, relationship-based review process.