Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation provides essential funding to nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of economically and socially disadvantaged individuals. Since 1988, the foundation has supported various initiatives, including education, health services, and community programs. It emphasizes direct services with low administrative costs, ensuring that funds have a meaningful impact. Organizations applying must demonstrate a commitment to serving at-risk youth and families, particularly in Montana and select areas where The Washington Companies operate.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

NorthWestern Energy Community Works Grants aim to enhance community well-being in Montana, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The program supports qualified nonprofit organizations with monetary donations focused on education, health services, civic improvement, culture, and resource conservation. Since 2019, over $2.1 million has been contributed towards community projects. Eligible applicants must demonstrate tax-exempt status and proposals should favor funding for programs and physical improvements. National organizations and political activities are generally excluded.

The Treacy Foundation Grant offers support for nonprofit organizations in Montana, focusing on capital campaigns and asset improvements. Grants of $10,000 or less can be submitted anytime, while larger requests must adhere to specific deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to send a one-page letter detailing their project prior to submission. The foundation aims to strengthen community initiatives and assist students in pursuing higher education through financial grants.

The Broadwater Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Broadwater County through charitable projects. Established in 1993, the foundation supports local initiatives with a cash matching requirement and prioritizes long-term benefits for residents. Eligible projects must be led by committed leaders and serve community needs. Ineligible projects include conferences, planning efforts, or those benefiting individuals directly. The foundation values community support and sustainable funding for impactful initiatives.

The Emerging Justice Fund Grant, offered by Social Justice Fund Northwest, aims to support grassroots organizing in communities affected by systemic injustices. With a funding cycle starting in February, the grant prioritizes organizations led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Eligible groups can apply for a one-year grant of $10,000, with a final deadline of September 12th. This initiative emphasizes unrestricted funding to empower marginalized communities and foster long-term social justice solutions.

Intermountain Community Care Foundation

Our mission: Helping people live the healthiest lives possible.

Intermountain Health is the largest nonprofit health system in the Intermountain West. We’re dedicated to creating healthier communities and helping our patients thrive.

Intermountain Health was established in 1975, but our legacy of compassion and care extends well beyond that, going back to the late 1800s and the early 1900s in Colorado and Utah respectively. We have since become a 60,000+ person strong nonprofit health system, with operations in six states across the interior West with a shared vision to be a model health system that inspires the future of health.

Intermountain Healthcare, SCL Health, and HealthCare Partners Nevada have now come together to serve communities in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming.

Grants

The Intermountain Community Care Foundation awards grants to organizations whose programs align with Intermountain Health’s mission, our national community health areas of focus, and priorities identified through our Community Health Needs Assessment. By supporting evidence-based programs and services that strengthen communities, the Foundation is dedicated to helping people live the healthiest lives possible.

What We Fund

We provide grants to organizations whose programs align with Intermountain Health’s mission, our national community health areas of focus, and priorities identified through our Community Health Needs Assessment.

• Healthcare Access Grants
• Social Drivers of Health Grants
• Child & Family Mental Well-Being Grants
• Utah Education Innovation Grants

Child & Family Mental Well-Being Grants

To qualify for Child and Family Mental Well-Being funding, your program or service must focus on families with children. Funding priority areas include:

• Mental well-being for children, including: reducing suicide deaths; reducing frequent mental distress, anxiety, and depression; decreasing substance misuse
• Advance prevention and early intervention addressing risk and protective factors
• Expand comprehensive, family-centered, mental well-being programs
• Build trauma-informed systems for young children including evidence-based prevention, behavioral health treatment, or related interventions or programs
• Strengthen community behavioral health capacity and collaborations through coalition-building

Requirements

• A full and complete financial audit conducted within the last two years. Submission must include the entire audit, including any findings and the auditor's letter
• A copy of the organization's 501(c)(3) designation letter or a comparable government designation
• A completed W9
• A completed Supplier Form (a blank copy will be provided in the application)

Additional information

• In Utah and Idaho, applicants can request a total grant award between $5,000 to $100,000 per year for 3 years (up to $300,000 total) for the entire project period. Projects can last between 12 and 36 months and must begin upon receipt of funding.
• In Colorado, Montana, and Nevada, applicants can request a total grant award between $5,000 to $50,000 per year for 2 years (up to $100,000 total) for the entire project period. Projects can last between 12 and 36 months and must begin upon receipt of funding.
• A funding request may not exceed 20 percent of an organization’s annual operating budget, e.g., to be eligible for a $50,000 grant, your organization’s annual operating budget must be at least $250,000.
• In general, small equipment and materials are eligible at no more than a total $5,000 cost, but large equipment, construction, and capital costs are not eligible. Consideration will be given if computer equipment is necessary and vital to the success of the project.

The Intermountain Community Care Foundation aims to enhance healthcare access and promote healthy behaviors among low-income and underrepresented populations in Utah and Southeast Idaho. It funds innovative projects that yield measurable results, focusing on significant and lasting changes in community health. Successful applicants must demonstrate a clear need, include a financial audit, and adhere to specific eligibility criteria. The foundation specifically excludes funding for political campaigns, operational deficits, and large equipment purchases.

The Family Power Fund, established by the Headwaters Foundation, empowers youth, parents, and caregivers to influence health-related policies and systems. By supporting nonprofits that foster leadership, advocacy, and storytelling, the fund aims to address health disparities impacting families, particularly those facing significant barriers. With grants of up to $150,000, it prioritizes organizations that engage these communities and promote their voices in decision-making. This initiative is critical for driving health equity across Western Montana.

The Family Power Fund by Headwaters Foundation supports nonprofits that empower families to lead health policy advocacy in Western Montana. It focuses on building leadership among youth and caregivers, fostering community organizing, and shifting narratives through storytelling. This initiative prioritizes families facing significant health challenges, including low-income, Indigenous, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities, aiming to amplify their voices and create impactful policy solutions.

The Foster Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Pacific Northwest that align with priority funding issues such as social services, education, medical research, and community engagement. The foundation seeks to cultivate long-term partnerships and is committed to improving community life through various initiatives. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and address one of the foundation's priority issues while ensuring that funds are used within the designated geographic reach.

The Charlotte Martin Foundation prioritizes funding for rural BIPOC organizations focused on youth programs, emphasizing education, athletics, and cultural expression for ages 6-18. Grants support initiatives that enhance access to diverse experiences, educational opportunities, and sports programs. The foundation is committed to addressing inequities in funding distribution, ensuring resources reach non-dominant communities. Organizations must be based in the Western states and demonstrate a commitment to racial equity and diversity in their leadership and programming.

The Pride Foundation Community Grants Program supports LGBTQ+ organizations in the Northwest by providing consistent funding to advance equity and justice. Since 1987, over $12 million has been awarded, with a focus on innovative and grassroots organizations. The 2024 cycle includes both proactive grants and open applications, ensuring accessibility for all eligible groups. This initiative centers on racial justice and aims to empower BIPOC and TGNC communities, fostering health, education, and community-building efforts.

The Blaine County Community Foundation Fund Grant, managed by the Montana Community Foundation, supports local initiatives that directly benefit Blaine County residents. Since 1988, it has invested over $68 million in philanthropic efforts, with $31 million awarded in the last decade alone. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and exempt governmental units, focusing on sustainable projects that address unmet community needs. This grant fosters a culture of giving, ensuring Montana's future thrives.

The MCF Community Heart & Soul Program, a collaboration between the Montana Community Foundation and Montana State University Extension, aims to empower rural communities in Montana to identify their core values and aspirations. This resident-driven initiative fosters community engagement through exploratory activities, grants, and support, ultimately enhancing local pride, volunteerism, and economic development. Selected communities will benefit from financial assistance, coaching, and a structured process over two years to ensure sustainable community growth and connection.

The Thomas and Corinne Nyquist Foundation provides small grants to nonprofit organizations in New Paltz, NY, and Roosevelt County, MT, focusing on local initiatives. Established in 2004, the foundation prioritizes projects that serve the communities of Bainville, Culbertson, and Froid. Applicants must demonstrate how funds will be used and must be registered nonprofits or sponsored by one. Grants typically range from $500 to $2000, with a preference for new needs and organizations that have not previously received funding.

The MCF Community Investment Program (CIP) supports innovative projects that enhance the quality of life in Rosebud, Custer, and Fallon County, Montana. Established by Grid United, this program aims to partner with local communities, encouraging projects that address community needs and leverage additional support. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, while ineligible projects include one-time events and general operating expenses. Grants must benefit the specified counties.

The NRA Foundation: Montana Grants provides funding for charitable purposes aligned with its mission, primarily focusing on promoting firearms safety, education, and marksmanship. Eligible organizations must hold a Federal Employer Identification Number and can include IRS 501(c)(3) entities, government bodies, or state-recognized nonprofits. Ineligible applicants include labor organizations, private enterprises, and individuals. The Foundation emphasizes public benefit in funded projects, ensuring they contribute positively to the community.

The Franz Bakery Foundation Grant supports local charitable organizations focused on family support, youth development, and hunger reduction in areas served by Franz Bakery. With an average grant amount of $3,000, the Foundation aims to foster respect, equity, and inclusion within communities. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 tax-exempt nonprofits located in specific states and align with the Foundation's mission. Organizations can reapply annually, although applications do not roll over to the next year.

The Whitefish Community Foundation's Micro-Grant Program provides rapid financial support to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Flathead County, Montana. It focuses on small-scale projects that address significant social needs and enhance community well-being. Organizations must demonstrate tax-exempt status and align with the Foundation's mission. While fostering local initiatives, the program excludes operational support, projects outside designated counties, and individuals, ensuring resources are directed towards impactful community benefits.

The AMB West Community Fund, part of the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for Montanans, focusing on nurturing childhood and thriving youth. With over $10 million awarded since 2001, the Fund prioritizes creative and impactful programs that support vulnerable populations, particularly in Park and Gallatin Counties and Indigenous communities. The initiative is dedicated to community-driven philanthropy, fostering collaboration, and addressing systemic challenges through strategic investments.

The Red Ants Pants Foundation Community Grant Program supports projects that enrich rural communities in Montana. Grants are awarded to organizations and individuals aligned with the Foundation's mission, focusing on leadership for women, preservation of family farms, and community development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate community support and the potential for significant local impact. With over $190,000 granted in the past cycles, this initiative fosters collaboration and growth in small towns, ensuring that rural voices are heard and valued.

The Rieschel Foundation Annual Grant supports public charities in Gallatin and Park Counties, Montana, offering up to $20,000 for general operating expenses. The grant cycle opens in February, allowing eligible organizations to submit applications. The foundation prioritizes funding for mental health services, human services, environmental initiatives, and education. With an average of 15 awards each year, the foundation aims to align with impactful organizations to foster significant community contributions.

Enterprise Community Partners

Enterprise Community Partners is a national nonprofit that exists to make a good home possible for the millions of families without one. Home is where life happens, where plans are made, and futures begin. It is the foundation for dignity, health, education, wealth, and community. Yet rents keep going up, paychecks don’t keep pace, and good homes in strong neighborhoods are increasingly out of reach.

The system doesn’t work. It must be changed, and it must be changed by us.

Enterprise has the breadth, scale, and expertise to do it. We support community development organizations on the ground. We aggregate and invest billions to improve housing and strengthen communities across the U.S. We advance housing policy at every level of government. We build and manage communities ourselves. Everything we do is informed by the residents we serve.

Together with our partners, we focus on the greatest need — the massive shortage of affordable rental homes — to achieve three goals:

• Increase the supply of affordable homes
• Advance racial equity after decades of systematic racism in housing
• Support residents and strengthen communities to be resilient to the unpredictable, and make upward mobility possible

Since 1982, we have invested $92.0 billion and created 1.1 million homes across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We do all this to make home and community places of pride, power, and belonging.

National Housing Innovation Grant Competition

Home is foundational. It’s where we plant roots, raise and care for our families, and build community bonds. Yet in every corner of the country, millions of people of all ages and backgrounds need a home they can afford.

Wells Fargo is meeting this moment with a powerful grant opportunity. Together with Enterprise, Wells Fargo has launched the third iteration of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge. The 2026 cycle of the housing innovation competition will identify and propel proven, ready-to-scale solutions that transform current practices and increase housing choice and access.

Eligible applicants will compete for five individual grants of $2 million to advance their innovation and drive meaningful, systems-level change in the housing and adjacent industries. Winners will gain access to mentorship and coaching from industry leaders and experts and join a powerful network of Breakthrough Challenge innovators.

Focus Areas

This third cycle of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge aims to meet the nation’s affordable housing challenges across all types of communities: Native, rural, suburban, tribal, and urban.

Proposals must encompass one or more of three focus areas:

• Design and Construction
• Finance
• Service Delivery and Programs

Applicants will be asked to show how their proof of concept or pilot program has achieved clear outcomes and success, and provide a clear pathway to expanding the innovation’s reach and impact

Round 1: Criteria and Scoring

Your innovation must meet the criteria below to advance to the official scoring stage.

Type of Community

Innovations can serve all types of communities:

• Rural
• Urban
• Suburban
• Tribal

Location

Priority scoring will be given to applications from entities that are based in – or whose innovations are designed for – one or more of these 28 states, plus D.C.:

• Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C.

Affordability

Innovations must serve residents at these income levels:

• Rental: 80% AMI or below
• Homeownership: 120% AMI or below
• Workforce housing: 120% AMI or below

The Tobacco Valley Community Foundation (TVCF) offers grants to support local organizations in the Tobacco Valley region, including West Kootenai, Eureka, Rexford, Trego, Fortine, and Stryker. Their mission is to enhance community resources, promote equality, and ensure that residents can actively participate in shaping their futures. By investing in arts, culture, and essential services, TVCF aims to preserve the unique qualities of the area for generations to come.

The Detwiler Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of children in local communities through support for educational and artistic programs. The foundation focuses on assisting children facing life challenges, including those experiencing food insecurity, mental health needs, and disabilities. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations in specific U.S. regions, prioritizing projects that foster community growth and empowerment. This initiative exemplifies a commitment to enriching children's well-being and ensuring access to vital resources.

The Treacy Foundation offers grants exceeding $10,000 to support nonprofit organizations in Montana. These grants focus on capital campaigns, asset improvements, and maintenance. Eligible applicants are those aligning with the Foundation's mission to strengthen community services. However, the Foundation does not fund operating expenses, travel, or grants to individuals. This funding opportunity aims to enhance local nonprofit capacities and provide scholarships for higher education.