Best Grants for Native Americans in Montana

Nonprofits and community groups in Montana producing or presenting media arts projects can seek US $500 - US $2,000 to support storytelling about the state’s arts, culture, and history. With a mission to uplift these stories, Montana Community Foundation’s William B. Pratt Endowment Fund especially supports traditional and Native American cultural expressions in media arts.

With a mission to support Native American culture and heritage, Creative West provides Montana Native artists and cultural practitioners with unrestricted funding and a three-month virtual cohort experience. Eligible individuals must be 18 or older, reside in the Creative West region, and receive US $2,500 to sustain their creative, cultural, and wellness practices.

American Indian undergraduate students from Montana high schools attending Montana State University can receive renewable support for college access and success. Montana State University’s Charlotte Yeoman Martin Scholarship helps Native students with financial need who have overcome adversity, with preference for first-generation college students pursuing higher education and persistence in Montana.

American Indian and Alaska Native nursing students in Montana can apply for Montana State University's Alice Willman Cassidy Scholarship to support their degree in the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing. Preference is given to participants in the Caring for Our Own Program, with secondary consideration for those demonstrating financial need.

Tribal language programs, schools, colleges, and community initiatives connected to Lewis and Clark Expedition tribes can seek up to US $20,000 for Native language documentation and revitalization. Focused on preserving Native American languages, Endangered Language Fund supports salaries, equipment, travel, and materials for education, recording elders, and training projects in Montana and other eligible areas.

Tribal governments and Native-led organizations pursuing renewable energy and solar workforce development in Montana and other tribal communities can access funding for capacity building and new solar projects. Grants from GRID Alternatives help tribal communities across the U.S. plan, finance, and implement solar installations, education, and training that advance energy sovereignty and resilience.

Nonprofits and community groups preserving traditional and folk arts in Montana can seek US $500 - US $2,000 to build awareness, involvement, and preservation of these art forms. The Montana Community Foundation’s William B. Pratt Endowment Fund also supports projects that share Montana’s arts, culture, and history, which may benefit Native American culture and heritage initiatives.

Tribal, local, and state governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Montana working with American Indian communities can apply for Indian Land Tenure Foundation’s Economic Opportunity grants to improve use and control of reservation lands. Funding supports projects that prioritize land acquisition strategies, create productive land use opportunities, and expand direct owner management for long-term community benefit.

Montana Native American-serving governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofits can seek support for projects that strengthen tribal control over land and legal systems. Montana Native American organizations can access funding through Indian Land Tenure Foundation for estate planning and probate reform, land policy development, landowner associations, and initiatives improving the legal framework for owning and managing Indian land.

Native-led organizations and community-based initiatives in Montana strengthening indigenous nations can access funding through Vadon Foundation for language revitalization, MMIWG2S advocacy, innovative community leadership, and COVID-19-related food and essential needs. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, tribal and other governments, colleges, universities, and health systems in the U.S. and Canada.

Native-serving organizations working on education, health, culture, environmental protection, or Native rights in Montana can seek support for programs assisting people in need. Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation’s Community Fund prioritizes initiatives in health and wellness, Native arts and culture, environmental protection, and the advancement of Native rights and Tribal sovereignty across the U.S.

American Indian and Alaska Native students in Montana pursuing certificate, undergraduate, or graduate study at accredited nonprofit U.S. colleges can access funding for their education through the American Indian College Fund; awards average US $2,000 - US $3,000. Grants from American Indian College Fund help Native American students with tuition and related academic costs nationwide.

American Indian and Alaska Native students at Tribal Colleges and Universities seeking scholarship support for certificate, undergraduate, or graduate study in the U.S., including Montana, can apply for this program. Grants from American Indian College Fund average US $2,000 - US $3,000 and use a single annual application to consider students for multiple scholarship opportunities.

American Indian and Alaska Native high school seniors in Montana planning full-time study at an accredited nonprofit college or Tribal College or University in the U.S. can receive merit-based scholarships for higher education. The American Indian College Fund awards US $2,000 - US $3,000 on average through a single annual application covering its full scholarship portfolio.

Native American organizations across the U.S. can apply for funding supporting education, health, housing, public safety, addiction treatment, the arts, environmental and natural resource preservation, cultural activities, and historic preservation. Focused on Native American services and culture, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians invite eligible groups, including those serving Montana communities, to seek charitable support.

The David Moses Bridges Scholarship honors the legacy of a renowned Passamaquoddy artist and activist, providing essential support for individuals dedicated to the preservation of Wabanaki culture, traditional arts, and environmental stewardship. This scholarship aims to foster connections between master artists and apprentices, promote research on David's impactful life and work, and protect culturally significant natural spaces. It empowers artists and scholars to continue the vital work of preserving indigenous knowledge and practices for future generations.

Montana Native American tribes and tribal entities conducting health-related research can access funding through the National Institutes of Health’s Native American Research Centers for Health program. Eligible federally recognized AI/AN tribes, tribal colleges or universities, tribal health programs, and tribal organizations may receive support for research projects, career development, and research infrastructure across the U.S.

The NATIVE Act Tribal Tourism Cooperative Agreement aims to enhance cultural heritage tourism through collaboration with Tribes, Tribal organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations. By providing technical assistance and capacity-building support, this initiative seeks to increase visitation and enrich tourism activities while respecting native traditions and values. The selected recipient will coordinate with federal agencies to ensure effective implementation, with funding available for an initial year and potential continuation for up to five years based on performance.

The Udall Undergraduate Scholarship, awarded by the Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall Foundation, supports future leaders in environmental, tribal public policy, and health care fields. With 55 scholarships of $7,000 each expected in 2025, this highly competitive program requires students to participate in their schools' internal competitions. Scholars benefit from networking opportunities and access to the Udall Alumni Network, fostering collaboration and growth in their respective fields.

Native Voices Rising (NVR) offers grants to empower Native-led grassroots organizations in the U.S. With over $16 million awarded since inception, NVR focuses on enhancing lives through collective action and advocacy. Eligible organizations must be Native-led and engage community members in policy improvement efforts. NVR supports initiatives addressing environmental justice, health, and youth involvement, with a commitment to fostering leadership and social change within Native communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting American Indian self-sufficiency, education, or cultural preservation across the U.S., including Montana, can seek project-specific funding ranging from US $10,000 - US $20,000. Focused on Native American services and culture, the Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company Foundation requires proposals within its charter and follow-up reports on funded projects.

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community offers various funding opportunities, including non-cash donations, mini-grants, and larger grants aimed at supporting Tribal governments and Native American organizations. Eligible applicants can apply once per fiscal year for monetary support, with a focus on cultural programming, economic development, and health initiatives. Applications are restricted to specific entities, ensuring targeted assistance to strengthen community projects and foster sustainable growth.

Native-led organizations in Montana working on cultural and ecological renewal rooted in connection to the Earth may be eligible for Kalliopeia Foundation support. Kalliopeia Foundation funds U.S.-based projects in land care and Indigenous leadership, prioritizing intergenerational initiatives, Indigenous sovereignty and culture, and land-based efforts that regenerate soil, soul, and community.

The BIE Professional Examination Funding, provided by Native Forward Scholars Fund in partnership with BIE, offers financial assistance to support Native students in taking professional examinations, including Bar Examination funding. This award covers registration fees, preparatory course costs, and other exam-related expenses. Applicants must have graduated within one year and can only receive assistance for one exam. This initiative aims to empower Native scholars and enhance their professional visibility and opportunities.

The BIE Professional Development Funding for STEM Educators and Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, supports training opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) for TCU faculty, staff, and students. This funding assists with costs related to professional development including continuing education, conferences, and certifications. Eligible applicants include educators at BIE-funded or controlled schools, as well as those at institutions with significant Native American populations, fostering increased representation and support for Native scholars.

The BIE Internship Funding for STEM Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to Native students for approved internships related to STEM. This initiative helps cover costs such as travel, living expenses, and daily commuting, facilitating valuable professional experiences. By supporting these students, the program aims to enhance Native representation in STEM fields and empower future leaders within their communities, contributing positively to society's growth and diversity.