FAQs – Option 2

What does THBEA mean?

THBEA is an acronym for “Texas Honey Bee Education Association”.

What is THBEA’s mission?

To further knowledge in the process of protecting honey bees and establishing more informed beekeepers.

Why did TBA create THBEA?

The simple answer is that TBA wanted to clearly separate the organization and corporate structure that is TBA from the desire to have a purely “educational” association which can receive tax-deductible contributions and can focus on the needs of beekeepers and the beekeeping industry. Many TBA members already donate their funds to the work of TBA. Having a separate organization like THBEA now allows these members, and others, to receive a tax-deductible receipt for their contribution.

What activities may THBEA support?

As a 501(c)(3) entity THBEA must, of necessity, limit the scope of what it supports to primarily education topics. An IRS special ruling in 2017 allowed non-profits to engage in disaster relief efforts even it not a part of their original scope of activities.

How does THBEA actually support activities?

Many of us are familiar with receiving grant funds from agencies. THBEA on the other hand is a grant-awarding organization. THBEA awards grants to advance and accomplish the four objectives in its founding documents. THBEA is limited in who may receive the funds that it awards. THBEA may award grants to other 501(c)(3) organizations and it may award grants to individuals. In each case THBEA must keep appropriate records, usually a grant application, and proof, usually in the form of a final grant report, that the recipient utilized the funds in line with THBEA’s objectives.

How do I apply for a grant?

Available grants are posted to the THBEA.com website.on a periodic basis and announced by e-mail to TBA current members. The grant applications are on the “Grants” page of the THBEA website.

How do I know if I am awarded a grant?

You will be notified of an award with a “Grant Award Letter” within the time period specified in the grant application. The Award Letter must be signed and returned to signify your acceptance of the grant and agreement to the terms specified in the award letter. Unsuccessful applications are also notified. THBEA does not publish grant winners to the general public.

Who were the winners in the 2022 THBEA Raffle?

The results of the 2022 THBEA Raffle can be found here.