Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The McGraw Foundation offers annual grants to not-for-profit organizations, primarily in the greater Chicago area, focusing on education, conservation, and human services. Grant amounts typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, with larger grants available for particularly impactful projects. While supporting diverse initiatives, the Foundation does not fund individuals or specific events. Organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS regulations to qualify for funding. The Foundation encourages innovative approaches and partnerships in grant applications.

The MT Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides crucial support for farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners in Montana, promoting conservation practices on working lands. Through financial assistance and tailored guidance, NRCS empowers agricultural producers to enhance soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats. This program addresses priority natural resource concerns while fostering sustainable agricultural operations. Year-round applications are accepted, making it accessible for eligible landowners looking to implement effective conservation strategies.

The MT Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers to enhance conservation efforts while improving their operations. With year-round applications, the program offers technical and financial assistance tailored to individual goals, whether it's boosting crop resilience or wildlife habitat. Participants benefit from annual payments and can access additional funds through bundled enhancements. CSP's commitment ensures sustainable practices that lead to healthier ecosystems and profitable agricultural enterprises across Montana.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship, honors a graduate student dedicated to advancing research in drinking water quality, environmental science, and public health. Established in 2020 by the American Water Works Association, this $3,000 scholarship aims to support innovative research that addresses pressing challenges in the water industry. By investing in future leaders, AWWA reinforces its commitment to ensuring safe and sustainable water for all.

The Seeley Lake Community Foundation (SLCF) offers the SLCF Community Grant Programs to support local initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Seeley Lake, MT. The foundation prioritizes projects in education, arts, community development, natural resources, and basic human needs. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve the community directly. The SLCF values proposals with broad community impact and strong partnerships, making it an ideal opportunity for collaborative projects.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

The Father's Table Foundation Grant aims to glorify God by addressing the immediate and future needs of women and children globally. This selective grant process emphasizes building self-sufficiency and resilience among beneficiaries, focusing on proven partners capable of expanding their impact. The foundation supports a diverse range of projects, including employment assistance, education, humanitarian aid, and health care, ensuring that aid not only meets urgent needs but also fosters long-term sustainability.

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 Renewable Resource Project Grants, administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, support the conservation and enhancement of renewable resources in Montana. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and tribal governments, with funding available for various projects such as irrigation rehabilitation, dam repair, and public facility improvements. This program enables communities to address essential resource management needs effectively.

The CD Education Mini-Grants program, funded by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, aims to support local conservation districts in their educational efforts. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 are available for projects that promote conservation education among youth and adults. Eligible projects include workshops, field trips, and resource development, all aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of natural resource management in Montana.

The Academic Research Enhancement Award (AREA) supports small-scale research grants for institutions with limited NIH funding, emphasizing biomedical research experiences for undergraduates. Eligible institutions must award baccalaureate science degrees and have received no more than $6 million in NIH support over the past seven years. This initiative aims to enhance the research environment at these institutions, fostering student involvement in research activities.

The Society for Northwestern Vertebrate Biology (SNVB) offers scholarships of up to $1500 for two students conducting vertebrate research in Northwestern North America. Eligible applicants include undergraduate, masters, and PhD students who are enrolled in accredited institutions and members of SNVB. The scholarships cover research-related expenses such as travel and supplies. Preference is given to proposals from local institutions, and only one award is granted per applicant each year.

The Emerging Global Leader Award (K43) offers essential research support and protected time for early career scientists in low- and middle-income countries. This program, aligned with NIH's clinical trials policy, aims to cultivate independent research careers by providing mentorship and funding over three to five years. Eligible candidates must hold a junior faculty position at an accredited LMIC institution, fostering the growth of research capacity in their regions.

The PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement, a private foundation, is dedicated to promoting health equity since 1992. With a focus on underserved populations in Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and parts of Washington, the foundation supports initiatives that enhance access to healthcare and address health disparities. They provide both one-year and multi-year funding, typically ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, to organizations committed to advancing health equity through diverse community-driven solutions.

The Fogarty Emerging Global Leader Award supports early career research scientists from low- or middle-income countries (LMIC) by providing research funding and mentored career development for three to five years. This program encourages LMIC scientists in health-related fields to develop projects aligned with their country's health priorities, fostering independent research careers within their institutions. Applications are welcomed from junior faculty members, enhancing global health research and capacity in LMICs.

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

Biogen Corporate Sponsorships provide funding to support congresses, events, and initiatives in exchange for tangible benefits such as marketing opportunities and recognition. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and requests must be submitted 50 days in advance. Biogen considers various disease areas for sponsorship, including Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Approval depends on funding availability, alignment with interests, and event details, ensuring transparency for all potential sponsors.

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for grants supporting general operating costs or specific projects. With a focus on regenerative farming, food worker health, climate justice, and food access, the foundation aims to empower grassroots initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, with applications reviewed twice a year. Deadlines are March 1 and August 1, and announcements occur about four months post-deadline.

The Conservation Partners Grant Program, funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, supports private landowners in implementing regenerative agriculture and conservation practices. By awarding competitive grants, the program facilitates technical assistance for developing management plans and best practices, enabling landowners to maximize the ecological benefits of their lands. This initiative is crucial for enhancing fish and wildlife habitats, addressing pressing conservation issues, and promoting sustainable land stewardship across the United States.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

About the Montana Department of Commerce

Every day, staff at Commerce work alongside private industry and local organizations to create jobs, grow businesses, provide affordable housing and improve community infrastructure.

The economy of the Treasure State continues to grow and diversify. Studies rank Montana as the number one place in the country to start a business. Plus, our workforce has earned some of the highest rankings in both trade and technical skills by having one of the highest STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) concentrations in the country.

Public and Community Facilities

Public and Community Facility Grants

Montana's CDBG Public and Community Facilities grants help local governments fund construction or rehabilitation of infrastructure and facilities that primarily benefit low- to moderate-income (LMI) Montanans, i.e. individuals earning less than 80% of the area median income. These projects can target LMI residents and provide direct benefits by improving or creating access to suitable living environments or necessary services, or these projects can provide an area-wide benefit to the entire community as long as at least 51% of the project’s beneficiaries are determined to be LMI. 

Certain projects such as senior centers, food banks, homeless shelters, youth homes, or head start centers are presumed to serve a limited clientele that is primarily LMI. Therefore, determining exactly what percent of project beneficiaries qualify as LMI is not required. Other projects, such as a wastewater improvements or water treatment improvements provide benefits to the entire community and are considered to have area-wide benefit because both LMI and non-LMI residents are served. Therefore, applicants must document at least 51% of the project’s beneficiaries qualify as LMI for projects considered to have an area-wide benefit.

The High Stakes Foundation Grant supports transformative initiatives in Montana, focusing on civic engagement, climate change solutions, economic development, and social justice. By providing general operating support to 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation aims to empower leaders and strengthen local communities. With an emphasis on sustainability and preserving public lands, this grant cultivates a vibrant, interconnected society committed to the health and prosperity of Montana. Organizations interested in applying must submit a letter of inquiry before the full proposal.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund

The NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund supports the launch or expansion of clinical programs and new service areas that increase access to care for underserved patients. This funding is designed to help NAFC members introduce new services or grow existing programs that address unmet community health needs and improve access to comprehensive, patient-centered care.

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 Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship, sponsored by the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois, provides financial support to students pursuing careers in natural resources. Applicants must reside in specific Illinois counties and plan to enroll in a full-time program related to fields such as ecology, hydrology, and conservation. Academic performance is a key consideration in the selection process. For more details, contact the Winnebago County Soil & Water Conservation District.

The OECD Conference Sponsorship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and provide essential information to influence policy decisions on sustainable resource use in food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. It supports international events that showcase innovative research and developments, inviting applications from scientists in these fields. The event sponsorship encourages collaboration among policymakers, industry, and academia, ensuring that research insights are effectively communicated and utilized in decision-making processes.