Best Helena Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The AOS-Sponsored Student Memberships provide one year of free membership to students globally interested in ornithology. Awardees gain full access to AOS membership benefits and are encouraged to participate in various opportunities, including the annual meeting and travel grants. This initiative aims to foster the next generation of ornithologists by supporting their academic and professional growth while upholding high ethical standards aligned with the AOS Code of Conduct.

The Florence Merriam Bailey Award, presented by the American Ornithological Society, honors outstanding articles published by early career members in AOS journals within the last two years. Awarded annually, it includes a $1,500 cash prize to the lead author. Papers recognized alternate between the journals 'Ornithology' and 'Ornithological Applications'. Nominees must adhere to high ethical standards as outlined in the AOS Code of Conduct.

The Vonda and David Mason Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, provides financial assistance to students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Award amounts vary, and eligibility includes being a senior status student in a rural/small school district, demonstrating financial need, and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.75. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to fostering education in Montana's communities.

The Sloan Indigenous Graduate Partnership (SIGP) Scholarship Program, funded by the A.P. Sloan Foundation, aims to support Indigenous graduate students in STEM fields. This program, a collaboration among the Montana University System institutions, offers scholarships, professional development, and networking opportunities to enhance the academic journey of Indigenous students. With awards of $20,000 for M.S. and $40,000 for Ph.D. candidates, the SIGP seeks to increase the number of Indigenous scholars earning advanced degrees in science and engineering.

The Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Bridge to Doctorate Scholars Program, funded by the National Science Foundation, aims to recruit and retain minority graduate students in STEM fields. This program offers significant benefits, including a $32,000 annual stipend and $12,000 educational allowance for two years, fostering a supportive community through monthly dinners for Indigenous graduate students. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, identify as American Indian or Alaska Native, and have participated in an LSAMP program.

The MSU Graduate Teaching Scholarships recognize the vital role graduate students play in undergraduate education by providing financial support for their teaching efforts. Eligible candidates must have a graduate teaching assistantship, complete professional development, and apply before the semester starts. Scholarships range from $250 to $1000, promoting excellence in teaching and enriching the educational experience at Montana State University.

The Graduate Professional Advancement Grant at Montana State University provides funding for graduate students in their 3rd semester or higher to present at professional conferences. This grant encourages scholarly research and supports students by covering travel costs, up to $750. Applications are reviewed monthly on a first-come, first-serve basis, and funding is limited based on availability. Students must be in good standing and have their committee on file to be eligible.

The Horatio Alger Montana Undergraduate Scholarship Program, backed by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, offers vital financial support to Montana high school seniors facing adversity. This scholarship targets students with strong character, financial need, and a commitment to higher education. Eligible recipients can utilize the award at any accredited nonprofit college in the U.S., ensuring they have access to necessary resources and mentoring to succeed in their academic pursuits and build brighter futures.

The Horatio Alger Career and Technical Scholarship Program, funded by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, offers financial support for students pursuing career and technical education. This program is aimed at individuals who have overcome adversity and are committed to achieving success through skills-based training. Eligible applicants must have a high school diploma, demonstrate financial need, and enroll in accredited programs in high-demand fields, fostering long-term economic stability.

The Helen B. Miller Horatio Alger Scholarship, supported by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, provides financial assistance to high school seniors who have shown resilience and strong financial need. This scholarship aims to empower deserving students to pursue higher education at accredited nonprofit colleges or universities. Recipients are selected based on integrity and perseverance, helping them overcome personal challenges to achieve their educational goals and build successful futures.

The Dennis Washington Leadership Graduate Scholarship, funded by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, aims to support exceptional Montana high school graduates pursuing graduate education. This scholarship targets emerging leaders who show strong academic performance and community commitment. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited U.S. institutions with a focus on impactful fields such as business and public policy. The initiative empowers students to develop essential skills for leadership roles, contributing to their communities' economic and civic vitality.

The Allied Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports residents pursuing degrees in Civil or Environmental Engineering. This scholarship aims to cultivate future engineering professionals essential for addressing high-demand fields in Montana. By providing financial assistance, it helps students enhance their technical skills and prepares them for impactful careers in engineering and environmental stewardship, contributing to the state's economy and quality of life.

The Allen and Georgann Reel HHD Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students in Human Development, Food and Nutrition, or Early Childhood Education. Applicants must maintain a 2.5 GPA and enroll in an approved program. This scholarship empowers students in health-related fields to advance their education and prepare for impactful careers that benefit children, families, and communities, fostering a healthier society through dedicated service.

The Allen and Georgann Reel Business Scholarship at Montana State University provides financial assistance to undergraduate students in the Jake Jabs College of Business & Entrepreneurship. Applicants must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA, with preference given to Montana high school graduates and children of MSU alumni. This scholarship supports students in building solid foundations for future careers in business, demonstrating the donors' commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community engagement in Montana.

The Allan J. McDonald Scholarship at Montana State University supports junior-level and above students pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering. It recognizes students demonstrating strong ethical principles and community involvement, embodying the legacy of Allan J. McDonald. With MSU's commitment to education, research, and hands-on learning, this scholarship aims to develop future engineers who are dedicated to professional excellence and making a positive impact in their communities.

The Alice Willman Cassidy Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing nursing degrees. Preference is given to participants in the Caring for Our Own Program (CO-OP), while also considering applicants demonstrating financial need. This scholarship aims to enhance access to nursing education and cultivate future Indigenous healthcare leaders, reflecting MSU's commitment to community engagement and student success.

The Akira Murakami Scholarship at Montana State University (MSU) provides essential financial support to students demonstrating financial need. Open to all academic disciplines, this scholarship aims to reduce barriers to education and promote success among MSU students. Founded in 1893, MSU is dedicated to fostering educational access and community engagement, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to contribute positively to society. This initiative underscores MSU's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Montana and beyond.

The A. K. Erhardt Education Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, aims to support students in the Department of Education who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to upperclassmen and Montana high school graduates. This scholarship fosters the growth of future educators by providing essential financial assistance, enabling students to pursue impactful careers in teaching and educational leadership.

The Robert C. Seamans, Jr. Fellowship in Science, Technology, and Public Policy at Harvard Kennedy School supports students excelling in research and management at the intersection of technology and public policy. This fellowship fosters future leadership in these critical areas, ensuring a commitment to addressing pressing public challenges. Applicants from diverse backgrounds are encouraged, as the program is designed to promote inclusivity and recognizes the importance of varied perspectives in policy-making.

The Scott and Isabelle Black Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School supports students in two-year degree programs focused on addressing societal issues such as homelessness, poverty, and education. Awarded based on merit and financial need, this fellowship aims to cultivate future leaders in government and nonprofit sectors. It encourages studies that explore the causes and solutions to problems affecting vulnerable populations, ensuring that graduates are equipped to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The HKS American Service Fellowship provides full scholarships and stipends for mid-career public service leaders to pursue a one-year Mid-Career Master in Public Administration at Harvard Kennedy School. Targeting U.S. military veterans, public employees, and alumni of service programs, this fellowship emphasizes skill development and community impact. Participants learn from esteemed faculty and engage with a network of changemakers, equipping themselves to address pressing societal challenges and enhance their leadership capabilities.

The Rich Huntsman Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Muskingum County Community Foundation, aims to support high school seniors from the Muskingum Valley League or Muskingum County who have actively participated in bowling. Eligible applicants must demonstrate ongoing involvement in the sport during their senior year. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing community quality of life through education and sports engagement.

The AOA/AOSA Opportunities in Optometry Grant program aims to promote inclusion within the optometric profession. This program offers $1,500 grants to under-represented minority students who are applying to optometry school. Eligible candidates include U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients who meet specific academic criteria. The initiative seeks to enhance diversity in the field and expand access to primary eye care, supporting the next generation of optometrists.

The Next Generation Undergraduate Scholarship, established by the Architects Foundation, aims to support diverse students pursuing architecture degrees. With a total award of up to $20,000, the scholarship is available to US citizens or permanent residents who are seniors in high school or second-year college students enrolled in NAAB-accredited programs. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering inclusivity and excellence in the architectural profession, empowering future leaders to shape the built environment.

The Next Generation Graduate Scholarship, established by the Architects Foundation, supports aspiring architects from diverse backgrounds. With an award of up to $20,000 over five years, it aims to enhance education accessibility in architecture. This initiative honors Whitney Young Jr.'s call for a more responsible profession, inviting students from technical schools, community colleges, and non-NAAB programs to apply. The scholarship not only aids in educational pursuits but also fosters a network of future leaders in architecture.

The Jefferies-Park Scholarship, established in 1988 by Evelyn Jefferies-Park, honors her commitment to education. It supports graduating seniors from Ord High School, Nebraska, who are in the top 15% of their class and plan to pursue a four-year degree. This scholarship reflects the legacy of generosity fostered by the Lincoln Community Foundation, which has provided over $606,000 in scholarships to local students in 2025 alone.

The Donald & Janice Svehla Family Endowed Scholarship, established in 2022 by their sons, supports students from Lincoln Northeast High School pursuing higher education. This initiative, backed by the Lincoln Community Foundation, honors Donald and Janice's dedication to education and community involvement. In 2025, the scholarship contributed to over $606,000 awarded to 299 recipients. It emphasizes the importance of academic excellence alongside financial need, continuing a legacy of support for local students.