Supporting Central Texas Nonprofits through COA’s Community Initiated Solutions Funding

Austin’s skyline from South Congress Ave. The Texas Capitol at dusk framed by downtown buildings.

Project Connect

Project Connect is an ambitious $7.1 billion initiative by the City of Austin, designed to expand Austin's transit system while addressing critical social challenges. It aims to provide comprehensive transit solutions and actively combat displacement through substantial community investment. At the heart of this initiative is the commitment to creating sustainable, equitable growth by supporting vulnerable communities along transit corridors.  

A Key Component of Project Connect 

Understanding that large-scale transit projects can have profound social impacts, $300 million of Project Connect's budget is earmarked for anti-displacement efforts. The Community Initiated Solutions Funding is integral to these efforts, ensuring that improved transit benefits all community members, particularly those at risk of displacement. 

Supporting Nonprofits and Community Growth 

Nonprofits in Central Texas play a crucial role in this endeavor. With the help of Community Initiated Solutions Funding, these organizations are equipped to implement innovative solutions that address the unique needs of their communities. The funding supports projects that promote tenant stability, increase access to homeownership, and drive economic mobility. 

Through these initiatives, the funding not only helps preserve the cultural and social fabric of neighborhoods, but also fosters growth and development that is sustainable and inclusive. 

Mission Capital's Role in this Project 

At Mission Capital, we are proud to have partnered with the City of Austin Housing and Planning Department through Community Initiated Solutions. Over the past year, we have supported four organizations in their capacity building priorities: 

  • Austin Voices for Education and Youth 

  • Meals on Wheels Central Texas 

  • El Buen Samaritano 

  • Goodwill Industries of Central Texas  

We have provided guidance and tailored assistance to help these organizations in various ways. These include developing succession plans, frameworks and processes to create a Community Advisory Committee, a custom workshop to better understand history and systemic inequities in Austin, and the development of a community collaborative. 

Goodwill Industries of Central Texas highlighted the impact of Mission Capital's support through this project: “Pleased with the structure and support. Thought-provoking and helped us think through issues in a simple and effective way.”  

Our gratitude extends to the City of Austin for their unwavering trust and partnership over the years. We are proud of the support we've provided to numerous Central Texas organizations through the Community Initiated Solutions Funding, as well as the Community Navigator initiative. These efforts resonate throughout our community, paving the way for a more inclusive and vibrant future. 


Want to collaborate with us? Reach out to our team today to discover how we can support your organization to make a lasting impact in our community. Together, let's build a stronger, thriving Central Texas. 

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Connecting Central Texas with Purpose-Driven Work and Volunteer Opportunities 

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Using In-Kind Donations for Program Expansion and Impact