Scharbauer Foundation Marks 15 Years of Grantmaking
The Midland-based organization celebrated its milestone anniversary at the Bush Convention Center this month.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The Scharbauer Foundation recently commemorated 15 years of grantmaking at a celebration held at the Bush Convention Center in Midland. Established in 2010 to honor the charitable legacy of Clarence Scharbauer, the foundation has become a pillar of local philanthropy.
Why it matters
The foundation supports community development by working directly with organizations to identify and fund essential project needs. Its enduring presence helps sustain a charitable tradition that began with the Scharbauer family's arrival in the area during the late 1880s.
Since issuing its first grant in 2011, the foundation has awarded 770 grants totaling $271,296,161. These figures represent the cumulative output of the organization over its 15-year history of active grantmaking.
The players
Scharbauer Foundation
A philanthropic organization based in Midland that provides funding to various community projects.
Clarence Scharbauer
A longtime Midland figure whose charitable legacy inspired the establishment of the foundation.
Charles Scharbauer Jr.
The founder of the Scharbauer Foundation who launched the organization in 2010.
The details
The foundation continues to operate through structured annual cycles, partnering with local entities to address regional funding requirements. It remains committed to the vision of its founder, Charles Scharbauer Jr., who launched the initiative to institutionalize the family's local support.
Timeline
Late 1880s: The Scharbauer family established its presence in Midland.
2010: Charles Scharbauer Jr. established the foundation.
2011: The foundation issued its first grant.
October 2026: The foundation celebrated the 15th anniversary of its first grant.
Jan. 7 to Jan. 27, 2027: The foundation opens applications for the spring 2027 grant cycle.
Market Landscape
The foundation's operation mirrors the long-standing tradition of regional family-led philanthropy in West Texas. By formalizing these efforts, the organization sustains the competitive advantage of local private capital in addressing community development needs.
Local organizations and nonprofits can prepare for upcoming funding opportunities during the January 2027 application window. The foundation's commitment to grantmaking provides a consistent source of support for projects that align with the organization's mission.
The takeaway
The foundation's milestone highlights the significance of institutionalizing family wealth for long-term community support. Nonprofits seeking funding should maintain alignment with the foundation's established annual application timelines.
What happens next
The foundation will accept grant applications for the spring 2027 cycle between Jan. 7 and Jan. 27, 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about local community investment efforts on the Midland Philanthropy section page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Midland Reporter-Telegram.
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