Search Through Grants for After School Programs in Montana in the U.S.

CHS is a leading global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States. Diversified in energy, agronomy, grains and foods, CHS is committed to creating connections to empower agriculture, helping its farmer-owners, customers and other stakeholders grow their businesses through its domestic and global operations. CHS supplies energy, crop nutrients, seed, crop protection products, grain marketing services, production and agricultural services, animal nutrition products, foods and food ingredients, and risk management services. The company operates petroleum refineries and pipelines and manufactures, markets and distributes Cenex® brand refined fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products. 

Agricultural and cooperative education: AG leadership

The CHS Foundation supports agricultural leadership and cooperative education projects that build a robust, diverse pipeline for agriculture and help people understand the value of the ag cooperative business model.

The Avista Foundation, a community investment program of Avista Corp., provides funding to non-profit organizations addressing the needs of communities and citizens served by Avista Utilities in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, portions of southern Oregon, and Sanders County, Montana. The Avista Foundation also serves communities and citizens served by Alaska Electric Light and Power Co. in the City and Borough of Juneau.​

The Avista Foundation also includes a matching gifts program for employees of Avista Corp.​​​​ and Alaska Electric Light and Power Co.​

Focus Areas

Avista’s philanthropy programs are focused on education, environment, vulnerable and limited income populations, and economic and cultural vitality.

Sponsorships

Applications for sponsorships are accepted year round. Sponsorships are for the support of events, not programs or the purchase of assets. Applicants should allow 90 days for review of a request for sponsorship.

What does this program do?

This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings.

How may funds be used?

Funds can be used to purchase, construct, and / or improve essential community facilities, purchase equipment and pay related project expenses.

Examples of essential community facilities include:

• Health care facilities such as hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
• Public facilities such as town halls, courthouses, airport hangars or street improvements.
• Community support services such as child care centers, community centers, fairgrounds or transitional housing.
• Public safety services such as fire departments, police stations, prisons, police vehicles, fire trucks, public works vehicles or equipment.
• Educational services such as museums, libraries or private schools.
• Utility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment.
• Local food systems such as community gardens, food pantries, community kitchens, food banks, food hubs or greenhouses.

What are the funding priorities?

• Priority point system based on population, median household income
• Small communities with a population of 5,500 or less
• Low-income communities having a median household income below 80% of the state nonmetropolitan median household income.

Grant Approval

Applicant must be eligible for grant assistance, which is provided on a graduated scale with smaller communities with the lowest median household income being eligible for projects with a higher proportion of grant funds. Grant assistance is limited to the following percentages of eligible project costs:

Maximum of 75 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 5,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 60 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income.

Maximum of 55 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 12,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 70 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income.

Maximum of 35 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 20,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 80 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income.

Maximum of 15 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 20,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 90 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income. The proposed project must meet both percentage criteria. Grants are further limited.

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation funds direct service non-profit organizations that help improve the quality of people’s lives by providing them with the tools they need to succeed. Since its inception in 1988, it has funded programs for those with special needs, summer camps for cancer-stricken or troubled children and ensured access to theater, arts and music programs by economically disadvantaged youth and their families. It has granted wishes for terminally ill children, awards for science and math fair winners, and funded programs to purchase clothing, school supplies and toys for needy children. The Foundation also has supported rescue missions, food banks, shelters for victims of domestic violence, free mammogram exams for low-income women, and dental screenings and preventive care for underprivileged youth.

When making a grant decision, we examine each organization’s financial stability, staffing and facility capacity, and relevant partnerships. Additionally, we assess the capability of an organization to sustain a program into the future and their ability to show measurable impact on the population they serve. Finally, funding is guided toward organizations that support low income, rural, and underserved populations through one of our four main focus areas:

Our Four Main Focus:

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation funds organizations that have accurately identified needs consistent with our mission and scope and who have successfully worked to provide programs and services that give youth and economically and socially disadvantaged individuals, families and those with special needs the tools they need to succeed in life.

Education

Education taps the immeasurable potential of the mind. Reaching children through early childhood education, after-school learning programs, post-secondary and graduate scholarships help our young people get the start they deserve. Providing higher education scholarships and funding educational programs helps build a strong educational foundation for future leaders.

Health and Human Services

Health and Human Services ensures the vitality of the human body and spirit. We target programs that ensure access to basic health care services to the most vulnerable members of our communities, as well as programs that educate our youth about wellness, nutrition, exercise and healthy lifestyles. We also support experiential programs that offer disabled or disadvantaged people opportunities they may not have otherwise.

Arts and Culture

Arts and Culture represents the innovation and creativity of a society. Through cultural endeavors we help bring people together to share their creative talents, intellects, passions, customs and bold initiatives to explore new ways of doing things. In the areas of theatre, art, and music the Foundation grants have helped organizations reach a broader audience, infused new life into programs and created long-lasting cultural traditions within our communities.

Community Service

Community Service touches the lives of everyone where they work, play and live. Despite our individual differences, we are linked by common interests to do more for the places we call home. The Foundation invests in organizations that fortify this connection. When everyone is involved one way or another in the improvement of their community, the community progresses in a positive direction.

About

E.B. (“Ed”) Craney founded the Greater Montana Foundation in 1958 and continued to fund it until his death in 1991.

Commercial Grant

The Greater Montana Foundation (GMF) has a special commercial broadcaster grant category for time-sensitive news and/or public affairs programming on issues of importance, including multi-part reports within regular news programs.

This category is designed to encourage and assist commercial broadcasters in providing meaningful and timely coverage of emerging and developing issues. It is not a replacement for grants that should be proposed during the regular annual GMF grant consideration process in the spring of each calendar year.

These grants are offered for time sensitive issues that could not have been foreseen for proposal during the regular annual grant consideration process. Proposals in this category may be made anytime, and expeditious consideration will be given on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the GMF Board of Trustees.

The Greater Montana Foundation requires that all programs receiving funding be made available for use upon request by any Montana media outlets, schools and libraries.A major goal for GMF’s founder, Ed Craney was to improve commercial broadcasting in the state.

There is no deadline for grant applications from commercial stations if you can demonstrate that this is:

• An urgent and critical issue (including the top priorities identified as most important by Montanans in the spring media survey: jobs and the economy; healthcare; and education)
• Production is time-limited

“The Greater Montana Foundation benefits the people of Montana by encouraging communications, with an emphasis on electronic media, on issues, trends, and values of importance to present and future generations of Montanans.”

The Greater Montana Foundation grants priority funding to programs that adhere most closely to the principles articulated in the GMF Mission Statement.

In addition, in the spring of 2015, GMF commissioned a professional poll, “Statewide Media Habits Survey,” which indicated that the top issues for Montanans are: Jobs and the Economy; Education; and Health Care, although others were mentioned.

Summary

The Western Montana Conservation Commission (WMCC), an attachment to the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), is seeking applications from eligible entities to serve as partners in programs that reinforce efforts to enhance water quality through the reduction of toxins from stormwater and septic leachate within Western Montana, the headwaters of the Columbia River Basin. WMCC Grant Programs will provide funds to complete projects and programs that address the elimination or reduction of stormwater and septic leachate pollution, reduce runoff, and promote citizen engagement and knowledge through education and outreach efforts. These grant programs aim to support tribal, state, and local governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and others in implementing the Columbia River Basin Toxics Reduction Action Plan, as well as activities under the Clean Water Act (CWA) § 123, the Columbia River Basin Restoration Act.

Residential and Community Green Stormwater Infrastructure Program Grant

Purpose

As Western Montana rapidly grows and the population increases, urban stormwater is, and will continue to be, a source of toxic pollution in the Upper Columbia Basin. Engaging residents and communities to take action to understand and reduce stormwater pollution is important to protect western Montana’s water quality for years to come.

The Residential and Community Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) Program Grant is for residential GSI implementation with the goal to provide eligible entities with the resources to develop new or grow existing rain garden, rain barrel, or other applicable programs for residents and communities.

Eligible activities may include but are not limited to building an educational demonstration rain garden and beginning new or improving existing programs to provide financial and/or technical support to residents and communities implementing GSI. If no program already exists, all activities should include components of program development such that a program can be sustained by the recipient beyond the period of the grant and/or public education and outreach activities. Applications that incorporate programmatic development activities will be ranked more highly than those that include one-time education and outreach activities. Programmatic development activities include but are not limited to developing program resources and processes for engaging residents and community members.

Alongside such activities, recipients will engage and educate residents about toxic pollution from stormwater and present participants with a Stormwater Stewardship pledge to garner long-term behavior change commitments to toxic reduction actions. Residents will be surveyed before and after program participation to assess knowledge increase and behavior change commitment. 

WMCC staff will provide awardees with resources and capacity support during program development and implementation as needed within staff capacity. WMCC has developed a toolkit of materials that may be used by awardees to develop, advertise, and implement their program, including a Stormwater Stewardship pledge template and survey content for assessing participant knowledge. 

Grants Awarded

Grants will be awarded until total awards reach $245,000.00

Mission

The Town Pump Charitable Foundation was established in 1999 with the mission of providing financial support to Montana charitable or governmental organizations with a priority of supporting/meeting basic needs and education for Montana citizens.

Our Focus

The Town Pump Charitable Foundation was established in 1999 with the mission of providing financial support to Montana charitable or governmental organizations with a priority of supporting/meeting basic needs and education for Montana citizens.

The Town Pump Charitable Foundation focuses on three primary areas:

• Basic Needs (food insecurity, homelessness, veterans' needs)
• Education (classroom activities, reading programs)
• Community Assistance ( first responders, community projects)

Education

Children are our future! At Town Pump we recognize the importance of supporting Montana schools in their efforts to provide quality-learning environments for our children.

Access to Food

Eighteen years ago, the annual “Be A Friend In Deed, Helping Those In Need” food bank fundraiser was started with two goals. First, to provide funds for food banks to help our hungry neighbors and second, to raise awareness of hunger in Montana. 

Community

Community is the family that goes beyond family. It is the people and places that we come in contact with each and every day. When we strengthen communities, we strengthen individuals.

Our culture of good stewardship also ensures that we meet or exceed the expectations of Montanans. Every day, the Town Pump Foundation strives to make our communities stronger, safer, and more sustainable. 

Grant Opportunities

Communities need nonprofits to thrive

We believe in transformational ideas that help individuals, families and communities flourish—and since 1975, the Murdock Trust has invested more than $1.4 billion into nonprofit organizations that share our commitment to thinking bigger, challenging problems and making a true difference.

Strategic Project Grants

Capacity-building awards for mission-focused projects and infrastructure investment

Equipment & Technology Grants

Best practices suggest that a healthy equipment and supporting technology infrastructure is essential. Please note that with these grants, recipient organizations are responsible for 50% or greater of the purchase cost.

Grant Opportunities

Communities need nonprofits to thrive

We believe in transformational ideas that help individuals, families and communities flourish—and since 1975, the Murdock Trust has invested more than $1.4 billion into nonprofit organizations that share our commitment to thinking bigger, challenging problems and making a true difference.

Strategic Project Grants

Capacity-building awards for mission-focused projects and infrastructure investment

Program & Staff

Expanding programs and adding staff are important markers of nonprofit success. Murdock Trust grants help fund both new programs and the expansion of existing programs and may be used to cover start-up costs and/or related staff member additions. Typically, we fund program and staff grants on a declining basis over three years (100/67/33%). 

Idaho and Montana Grant Program

The Steele-Reese Foundation is a charitable trust committed to supporting rural communities and the tax-exempt entities that serve them in Idaho, Montana, in the Native nations that share the geography, and in Appalachian Kentucky. Since its inception, the Foundation has maintained a focus on the unique challenges of rural living and on helping people build healthy, successful, and sustainable communities.

We support Rural Education, Rural Human/Social Services, Rural Conservation and Preservation, Rural Health, and Rural Arts and Humanities projects. Applications from organizations operating outside of the Foundation's regional or programming areas are not eligible for funding. Please check back periodically for the latest updates about the Foundation's priorities and application policies.

Idaho and Montana Grant Program

In its Idaho and Montana Grant Program, The Steele-Reese Foundation makes grants only to federally tax-exempt entities for work in rural Idaho and Montana communities, and in Native nations with whom we share this geography. 

Program Areas

Rural Education

In both the Appalachian Kentucky and Idaho and Montana Grant Programs, the Foundation focuses on early childhood to Grade 12 education programming. Examples include funding for supplemental programs in early childhood education settings; elementary, middle, and high school programs that improve outcomes for students; support of literacy programs and out-of-school-time services; and charter schools and other model school programs that provide quality educational options for students and families. We also provide assistance to small public libraries. The Foundation does not accept applications to directly fund higher education, though we will consider early childhood to Grade 12 programs operated by colleges or universities or state or local education districts.

The Foundation considers education projects that demonstrate a comprehensive level of engagement with participants that result in clear and measurable outcomes. We are not able to fund those projects with single or limited interactions with students or those whose primary outcome is to raise awareness or introduce a concept. We are unable to support summer camps.

The Foundation also supports a small college scholarship program only for graduates of high schools in Lemhi and Custer Counties, Idaho.

Rural Human/Social Services 

In the Idaho and Montana Grant Program, the Foundation considers programs in support of low-income and under-represented populations, including elders, homeless individuals, people living with disabilities, young children, disadvantaged or disconnected older youth, young people or adults involved in the criminal justice system, and survivors of abuse or domestic violence. Programming within this area also includes support to local libraries, fire-protection services, and local food banks.

Rural Conservation and Preservation 

In the Idaho and Montana Grant Program, the Foundation considers land, water, and wildlife conservation; historic preservation and restoration projects; and ecosystem protection programs. All conservation or environmental programs must be locally focused on rural communities or landscapes.

National organizations are eligible for support only if all Steele-Reese Foundation funds will be employed directly in projects located in the geographical areas served by the Foundation and if the coordinating entity can demonstrate substantial connections to the people and organizations in these areas.

Rural Health 

In the Idaho and Montana Grant Program, the Foundation considers services in preventive health programs; medical clinics; small hospitals; EMS and ambulance units; family-planning programs, and hospices. The Foundation is not able to support major equipment purchases for rural medical facilities.

Rural Arts and Humanities 

In the Idaho and Montana Grant Program, the Foundation considers local arts programs, and the broader support of creative arts activities and efforts to maintain the rich histories of the Foundation’s funding geographies. 

Capital Improvements and Campaigns

In all program areas, the Foundation makes a limited number of grants for capital improvements, fixtures, and remodeling, retrofitting, and building new structures. In projects involving the building of a new facility or other large-scale capital endeavors, we typically make these grants only during the closing phases when a substantial portion of the required funds are already in hand. 

Funding

The minimum grant awarded by the Foundation is $5,000. We rarely make grants of up to $50,000 for a single year or make multi-year grants.

The Avista Foundation, a community investment program of Avista Corp., provides funding to non-profit organizations addressing the needs of communities and citizens served by Avista Utilities in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, portions of southern Oregon, and Sanders County, Montana. The Avista Foundation also serves communities and citizens served by Alaska Electric Light and Power Co. in the City and Borough of Juneau.​

The Avista Foundation also includes a matching gifts program for employees of Avista Corp.​​​​ and Alaska Electric Light and Power Co.​

Focus Areas

Avista’s philanthropy programs are focused on education, vulnerable and limited income populations, and economic and cultural vitality.

This application cycle is for Health and Human Service Proposals. 

Vulnerable Populations

Providing assistance to those on limited incomes and support for initiatives to reduce poverty.

Investing in the future of the cooperative system

The CHS Foundation supports cooperative education projects that develop and enhance understanding of the ag cooperative business model through education, professional development, and practical experience.

Program priorities and guidelines

The CHS Foundation will consider programs that:

• Educate the next generation about the agricultural cooperative business model
• Demonstrate a history of success and/or increase in growth or demand
• Incorporate technology and new, innovative approaches
• Target middle school, high school, college-age students and young producers
• Clearly identify strategies for engagement with key audiences and outline goals with measurable outcomes
• Use funding to support program-related costs
• Have a national or state level reach within the main CHS trade area (Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Ohio, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin and Wyoming)

Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County Grant

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County (CFNRC). The foundation is an affiliate of the Montana Community Foundation (MCF) and provides grants to qualified non-profit and charitable community service projects in northern Rosebud County and the communities of Forsyth, Angela, Ingomar and Rosebud. 

Grant Criteria

Grants will be made for projects in the following program areas:

• Youth Programs & Education
• Recreation Art & Culture
• Community & Economic Development
• Natural Resources
• Conservation & Environment
• Emergency Services
• Healthcare Services
• Historic Preservation

Evaluation Criteria

The granting process is competitive. Eligible projects will be evaluated on the following criteria.

• Provides a direct benefit to local, area residents by enhancing quality of life now and into the future.
• Creates long term asset building and is sustainable.
• Addresses important community needs.
• Demonstrates wide spread support. Applicant works with other entities to reflect community support with additional funding and in-kind contributions toward the project.

Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County

Thank you for your interest in applying for a grant from the Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County (CFNRC). The foundation is an affiliate of the Montana Community Foundation (MCF) and provides grants to qualified non-profit and charitable community service projects in northern Rosebud County and the communities of Forsyth, Angela, Ingomar and Rosebud. 

Grant Criteria

Grants will be made for projects in the following program areas:

• Youth & Education
• Recreation, Arts & Culture
• Basic Human Services
• Community & Economic Development
• Natural Resources, Conservation & the Environment
• Health Care Services
• Emergency Services
• Historic Preservation

Evaluation Criteria

The granting process is competitive. Eligible projects will be evaluated on the following criteria.

• Provides a direct benefit to local, area residents by enhancing quality of life now and into the future.
• Creates long term asset building and is sustainable.
• Addresses important community needs.
• Demonstrates wide spread support. Applicant works with other entities to reflect community support with additional funding and in-kind contributions toward the project. 

Signature Community Impact Grant

Signature Community Impact Grants, a new program added in 2019, can range in size up to $10,000; however, the project must have significant community support and partnerships, and demonstrate significant community impact. 

Grant requests will be evaluated by the CFNRC Granting Committee and are approved by the Montana Community Foundation. Demonstrating partnerships and community support is extremely important as our grants become more competitive. We are not likely to fund 100% of any project. Money, labor and in-kind donations are all helpful in partnering. CFNRC requires quality digital pictures (300 dpi minimum) of your project, including progress or “action shots” and end results.

About School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network (SBHSN).

Utilizing a unique framework of funding systems offered by the Department of Health and Human Services, managed care organizations, health insurers, and private donors, SBHSN promotes a system of care model (Coaching Model℠) offering a mix of evidenced-based intervention, prevention, and care coordination services to children in grades K-12. The Coaching Model aims to expand quality mental healthcare access on public school campuses and improve children's social, emotional, behavioral, family, and wellness outcomes.

School-Based Mental Health Implementation Grant

In response to the growing number of students who need mental health counseling, the School-Based Healthcare Solutions Network (SBHSN) is accepting applications from Local Education Agencies (LEA), Public and Private Universities, State and local Colleges, Charter School Management Companies, Public Schools, Charter Schools, and Non-Profit Organizations (501c3) to implement and expand mental health program services on local school campuses. Grantees will receive direct funding and reimbursement to support the following activities: 

• Expanding access to School-Based Social and Emotional Learning (SEL).
• Coordinating mental healthcare services with school administration and staff. 
• Delivering mental healthcare services and coordinating academic-support activities to students with a history of attendance, behavior, and poor academic performance.

FUNDING

5-Years, renewable based on meeting performance goals 5-year award ceiling is $5,500,000.

POLLINATOR GRANTS

Pollinator grants are available to conservation districts for any projects that will improve pollinator habitat within Montana. Example projects include community and demonstration gardens, area-wide pollinator initiatives, education events, and planting pollinator plots. In addition to the general guidelines provided previously in the overview section, the following guidelines apply specifically to the Pollinator Grants:

• The minimum application request is $5,000, and requests may not exceed $15,000.
• Applications that include a monitoring plan, a public outreach and education plan, and a partners’ plan will rank higher.
• Applications for this program should include the following components:
  • Public Outreach and Education:
    • Develop and implement outreach initiatives to educate the public, local stakeholders, and community members about the importance of pollinators and their role in ecosystem health, agriculture, and biodiversity.
    • Activities may include workshops, community events, informational campaigns, and educational materials tailored to various audiences.
    • Include strategies to engage underserved or underrepresented communities.
  • Community Participation:
    • Actively involve local communities, schools, businesses, and other stakeholders.
    • Promote citizen science opportunities to increase awareness and participation, such as monitoring pollinator populations or planting pollinator-friendly habitats.
  • Pollinator Monitoring Program:
    • Establish a monitoring protocol to track pollinator populations, habitat usage, and the overall effectiveness of program interventions.
    • Include specific metrics and indicators to assess progress, such as changes in pollinator diversity, abundance, and habitat quality.

The Avista Foundation, a community investment program of Avista Corp., provides funding to non-profit organizations addressing the needs of communities and citizens served by Avista Utilities in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, portions of southern Oregon, and Sanders County, Montana. The Avista Foundation also serves communities and citizens served by Alaska Electric Light and Power Co. in the City and Borough of Juneau.​

The Avista Foundation also includes a matching gifts program for employees of Avista Corp.​​​​ and Alaska Electric Light and Power Co.​

Focus Areas

Avista’s philanthropy programs are focused on education, vulnerable and limited income populations, and economic and cultural vitality.

This application cycle is for Education and Youth Development Proposals.

Humanities Montana

Our Mission

Humanities Montana serves communities through stories and conversation. We offer experiences that nurture imagination and ideas by speaking to Montanans’ diverse history, literature, and philosophy.

Land Acknowledgement

Humanities Montana acknowledges that we are in the homelands of Indigenous people. We offer our respect for their history and culture, and for the path they have always shown us in caring for this place for generations to come.

Our Vision

To achieve our goal, Humanities Montana —

• provides programs that tell our diverse stories
• facilitates conversations about the most pressing issues
• supports Montana’s cultural institutions through grants and partnerships
• offers humanities such as history, literature, and philosophy to nurture memory, imagination, and ideas

Community Project Grants

Humanities Montana’s Community Project Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations and public institutions across Montana to support public humanities programs that engage Montanans in meaningful discussion about the human condition, strengthen cooperative relationships among communities and cultural organizations (museums, libraries, schools, tribal organizations, etc.) and enrich civic discourse among the state’s diverse cultures and across its geographical distances.  

These grants are designed to support a vast array of bold and innovative projects that are meaningful to local communities and inspire timely community conversations, from film screenings and panel discussions to cultural festivals and youth literacy programs — and much more.

The Greater Montana Foundation benefits the people of Montana by encouraging communications, with an emphasis on electronic media, on issues, trends, and values of importance to present and future generations of Montanans.

To further our mission of encouraging communication, especially electronic, on issues, values and trends of importance to Montanans, GMF offers several types of grants:

General grants for nonprofits and others: for film, TV programs, documentaries, videos, webinars, etc. with applications due April 1.

Bill and Rosemary Gallagher Foundation Grant

The Bill and Rosemary Gallagher Foundation (previously known as the Gallagher Western Montana Charitable Foundation, Inc.) was established in 2001 to continue the work of the W.J. & Rosemary Gallagher Foundation. Bill and Rosemary Gallagher were long-time supporters of charitable organizations in Missoula and Western Montana. Though Bill and Rosemary are deceased, their spirit of community lives on through the foundation established in their name.

The Foundation is dedicated to benefiting the residents of Western Montana (defined as West of the Continental Divide and Helena). It is a source of financial support for charitable organizations that aid the unfortunate, ameliorate the sufferings of the disabled and afflicted, encourage and educate youth, assist and relieve the aging, improve medical care, aid battered persons, children in distress and single parents, and improve educational opportunities.

Program Areas of Interest :

Education

• Improve educational opportunities for citizens of Western Montana

Art and Culture 

• Art programs
• Theatrical, artistic and educational programs for youth
• Creative and cultural expression

Community Enrichment 

• Programs and activities that improve the Missoula community
• Activities that enhance quality of life for families
• Parks and playgrounds
• Civic responsibility and exponent philanthropy

Health Care 

• Improve access to quality health care
• Promote healthy lifestyles through education and prevention programs
• Hospitals and health care clinics providing charitable health care services

Assistance to Youth 

• Encourage, improve and educate youth
• After-school programs
• Youth organizations

Assistance to the Aging 

• Support the assistance and relief of the aging
• Meals and other assistance to the home-bound
• Programs to assist the aged with their daily necessities

Assistance to Organizations Serving Those in Need 

• Abuse survivors
• Children in distress
• Single parents
• Youth
• The impoverished
• People with disabilities

About Us

Here at the Montana Community Foundation, we care about Montana. It's not just the place where we live and work, it's our home. Since 1988, the Montana Community Foundation has worked tirelessly to create permanent philanthropy and build stronger communities. MCF manages more than $188.5 million in assets and administers more than 1,470 philanthropic funds and planned gifts. Our work with donors, charitable organizations, cities and towns plays a critical role in both philanthropic and community development. Since our founding, MCF has reinvested more than $100 million in Montana through scholarships, grants, and programs.

MCF Community Investment Program (CIP)

The Community Investment Program (CIP) was established at the Montana Community Foundation by Grid United. CIP supports communities in Rosebud, Custer, and Fallon County, where Grid United’s North Plains Connector, a transmission line connecting U.S. eastern and western electric grids in Montana and North Dakota, will be located. Grid United is dedicated to partnering with these communities; as a result, CIP funds support innovative projects that enhance quality of life while strengthening communities in this corner of Eastern Montana.

Our Current Priorities

For those requesting support for youth programs, the Foundation will continue to focus on rural BIPOC organizations and allowing organizations to use awarded funds for general operating support.

Recognizing the critical role of BIPOC organizations, the Charlotte Martin Foundation continues to make it a priority to partner with organizations doing progressive work specifically in the areas of youth education and climate change, with a special emphasis on serving communities of color. Three years ago, we created a fellowship designed around researching BIPOC led organizations within our 5-state region that align with our priorities. We recognize that private funding is inequitably given to white-led organizations and we want to show our commitment to redistributing resources to non-dominant, BIPOC organizations.

Increasing Opportunities for BIPOC:

Increasing racial equity and diversity for youth ages 6-18.

BIPOC led nonprofit organizations with diverse leadership and staff are the focus of our grant-making. Organizations based in rural communities are also a priority for our foundation.

Programs that create opportunities in areas of education, cultural expression and athletics. Including but not limited to:

• Increase access to and the creation of diverse cultural experiences.
• Improve school-based and out-of-school learning opportunities in areas such as science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) and other areas.
• Increase early college awareness and access to post-secondary education.
• Increase access to sports and diversify sports programs.

Guidelines for Youth Programs

Our program funding for youth ages 6-18 falls into three areas: Athletics, Culture and Education. Grants for youth programs must fall within one of these three program areas.

Youth Athletics

Athletics include a wide range of individual and team sports, with an emphasis on the value of sports for lifelong participation. School-sponsored intramural and after school sports programs have been greatly reduced, and middle-school aged youth have been most affected. After school athletics can be the incentive that gets kids involved in programs that also have educational and cultural components. Demand is increasing for athletics programs and facilities in rural areas and inner cities. More girls are getting involved in sports, requiring additional programs and space. Coaches are key to a positive experience for young people, and good coaching requires training.

Youth Culture

Culture includes art, music, dance, literature, theater, ethnic and regional heritage. Positive experiences in culture are essential in educating the whole person and should be an integral part of the lives of youth. Young people can use cultural experiences as creative resources to build self-esteem, promote personal growth, and preserve traditions. Arts and culture programs in the schools are being reduced or eliminated, and many communities, both urban and rural, have limited access to cultural resources.

Youth Education

All young people should have the opportunity to fulfill their potential. Education, in and out of school, happens best when youth direct their learning and engage in compelling problem-solving and critical thinking. Educators need support to play a vital role in assisting youth to investigate their passions and explore new interests. Rural schools often have less access to resources and curricula than urban schools. Both public and private schools need support.

Mission

The Tobacco County Community Foundation (TVCF) is an affiliate of the Montana Community Foundation and provides philanthropic services to the Lincoln Electric service area- West Kootenai, Eureka, Rexford, Trego, Fortine, and Stryker.

The TVCF is a steward through which private assets entrusted to us by donors are invested to meet the challenges of contemporary life. We are committed to respecting the trust and intent of our donors while maintaining our integrity and responsiveness as a community foundation.

We seek to protect and enhance the unique resources of the Tobacco Valley, its diversity of culture, its richness of artistic support for area citizens, and the beauty and quality of its land, air, and water—so that these resources may be enjoyed now and in the future.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and justice for all citizens. We seek to enhance human dignity by providing support for area citizens to participate actively in determining the course of their lives and the life of their community and by investing in the future of our communities through a permanent endowment.

The Avista Foundation, a community investment program of Avista Corp., provides funding to non-profit organizations addressing the needs of communities and citizens served by Avista Utilities in eastern Washington, northern Idaho, portions of southern Oregon, and Sanders County, Montana. The Avista Foundation also serves communities and citizens served by Alaska Electric Light and Power Co. in the City and Borough of Juneau.​

The Avista Foundation also includes a matching gifts program for employees of Avista Corp.​​​​ and Alaska Electric Light and Power Co.​

Focus Areas

Avista’s philanthropy programs are focused on education, vulnerable and limited income populations, and economic and cultural vitality.

This application cycle is for Economic and Community Vitality Proposals.

CHS Inc

CHS (fomerly is a leading global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States. Diversified in energy, agronomy, grains and foods, CHS is committed to creating connections to empower agriculture, helping its farmer-owners, customers and other stakeholders grow their businesses through its domestic and global operations. CHS supplies energy, crop nutrients, seed, crop protection products, grain marketing services, production and agricultural services, animal nutrition products, foods and food ingredients, and risk management services. The company operates petroleum refineries and pipelines and manufactures, markets and distributes Cenex® brand refined fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products. 

CHS invests in programs that strengthen hometown communities and develop future generations of ag leaders through CHS community giving and the CHS Foundation. These initiatives support CHS sustainability efforts and long-term focus on people and rural communities

CHS community giving serves cooperative communities through support of cooperative matching grants, Twin Cities projects, volunteerism and industry support.

CHS Foundation

The CHS Foundation builds ag career pathways and educates rural youth through support of ag safety.

Teacher Grants

The CHS Foundation will award up to $50,000 to help teachers to implement a project at their school that will engage students in experiential agricultural education. We know teachers have big ideas we want to help bring those to life for students in rural communities.

The NRA Foundation: Montana Grants

Grant funding provided by The NRA Foundation must meet all NRA Foundation requirements and be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials. Eligibility and funding amount are determined solely by the Foundation.

Grant requests must conform to, and foster the purposes in, The NRA Foundation’s mission statement, such as:

• Promote, advance, and encourage firearms, the shooting sports, and hunting safety.
• Educate individuals, including the youth of the United States, with respect to firearms, firearms history, participation in the shooting sports, hunting safety, and marksmanship, as well as with respect to other subjects that are of importance to the well-being of the general public.
• Conduct research in furtherance of improved firearms safety and marksmanship facilities and techniques.
• Support activities of the National Rifle Association of America, to the extent that such activities are in furtherance of charitable, educational, or scientific purposes within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code which includes activities that are charitable, educational, or foster National or International sports competition.

Montana Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant

The 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant provides funds to Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) and community-based organizations (CBOs). Grantees are awarded a minimum of $50,000 each year for 5 years. The 21st Century Community Learning Centers provide opportunities for academic enrichment during out-of-school time in a community learning center environment. Services reinforce and complement regular academic programs and offer literacy and educational development to students and families.