Be the Spark in Your Community: Apply for the GVEC Power Up Grant

Community-powered movements are often the most sustainable and satisfying. The GVEC Power Up Grant Program has turned small donations into improved safety, access, education, and quality of life across its service area for over a decade.

The deadline for the next cycle of applications is fast approaching - August 15 at 5:00 p.m. - so don’t delay! Whether launching a community garden, renovating a public space, improving accessibility, or investing in life-saving equipment, Power Up can help bring your plan across the finish line.

“In our eyes, it doesn’t matter how big or small; the value to the community is the true measure of projects we want to fund,” said Christine Presley, GVEC Community Relations Representative.

Multi-functioning Grant Program

Small contributions can spark big progress, and every penny counts with GVEC’s Power Up Grant Program. Power Up is a member-supported grant program funded by rounding up GVEC electric bills to the next dollar. Approximately 85% of funds become grants for nonprofits, and 15% helps soften electric bills for low-income and elderly members through local assistance programs.

Since launching in 2012, GVEC members have donated the change from their electric bills to fuel community-led projects. That collective generosity has funded over 250 community improvements, delivering more than $4.1 million in grants across South Central Texas.

Examples of funded projects include:

• City of New Berlin - $20,000 to add a decomposed granite walking path to its city park
• City of Schertz Police Department - $20,000 for TruNarc Handheld Narcotics Detection Device
• Lifegate Christian School, Seguin - $14,763 to upgrade ventilation in the gym used by students and community sports teams
• Gonzales County Veterans Memorial Assoc., Inc. - $20,000 for the Gonzales County Veterans Memorial
• Texas Ramp Project - $15,000 for fifteen residential ramps through the Victoria North Region
• Thompsonville Cemetery Association - $19,461 to enhance a community center
• Yoakum ISD - $20,000 for campus beautification
• York Creek VFD in Staples - $16,236 for new protective gear

Apply Today!

Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed twice yearly in the applicable cycle, depending on timing.

• Submit by August 15 → Awards announced in October
• Submit by February 15 → Awards announced in April

Projects must:

• Be within the GVEC’s service boundaries
• Be completed within 12 months of the award
• Be non‑recurring capital or finishing costs
• Be run by a tax-exempt or equivalent organization, open to serving all, and adding measurable community health or welfare benefits.

Application Process:

• Complete the online application and include budgets, partner support, matching funds, and project timeline.
• Submit before the upcoming deadline: August 15, 2025, by 5 p.m.
• Connect with Christine Presley at cpresley@gvec.org for application assistance.

Whether your project is large or small, GVEC believes in the power of local solutions. Don’t miss this opportunity to turn your plans into progress. Apply now, share your story, and let Power Up help bring your vision to life. Visit the Guadalupe Valley Economic Development website or contact us today for assistance.