Best Helena Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The Gallatin Lodge 6 Masonic Scholarship at Montana State University is aimed at supporting local students pursuing degrees or certificates at Gallatin College. Applicants must be Montana residents with a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need and who are graduates of Montana high schools or possess a GED. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to accessible higher education and community transformation.

The Gallatin Lodge 6 Scholarship at Montana State University supports first-generation college students pursuing a degree in nursing. Established in 1893, MSU provides transformative educational opportunities. This scholarship is specifically aimed at Montana high school graduates, enhancing access to higher education for those who may face financial barriers. With a limited number of awards available, this initiative emphasizes the importance of community support and investment in the future of nursing professionals in Montana.

The Gallatin Valley Ag Committee Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Applicants must be Montana high school graduates, undergraduate students with a minimum 2.5 GPA, and demonstrate leadership and community involvement. Preference is given to graduates from Gallatin County. This scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and community engagement among future agricultural leaders.

The Garsjo-Bartram Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming freshmen who are graduates of Valley County high schools. Established to promote education, this scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to transforming lives through accessible higher education. Students pursuing degrees at MSU can benefit from this opportunity, furthering their academic and personal growth while contributing to their communities.

The Gary Bracken Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Established in 1893, MSU has a long-standing commitment to education and community transformation through scholarships. This opportunity is available to incoming students, encouraging them to embark on their academic journey in business. With a focus on accessibility and excellence, the scholarship aims to empower future leaders in the field.

The Gary J. and Boyd A. Smith Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. This scholarship aims to assist those who demonstrate financial need, ensuring access to quality education. Founded in 1893, MSU is a prestigious institution dedicated to transformative higher education, focusing on the mission of education, research, and outreach. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to fostering future educators.

The Gary Long Math Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing a degree in Mathematics. This scholarship is designed for students with sophomore status or above, who can demonstrate financial need. By offering financial assistance, this scholarship aims to empower students in their educational journey and contribute to their success in the field of Mathematical Sciences.

The Gary Twiford Memorial Business Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree at the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship, with a focus on rural Montana residents. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to providing life-changing educational opportunities. It aims to assist those who are dedicated to enhancing their communities through business education, ensuring that future leaders are equipped to drive economic growth in Montana.

The Gary Williams Family Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University is designed to support undergraduate students pursuing a degree in engineering. To qualify, applicants must be residents of Southwest Montana and preferably graduates of Beaverhead County high schools. This scholarship aims to promote educational opportunities for local students, ensuring they have access to the resources needed for success in their engineering careers.

The NIH Director's Early Independence Award encourages exceptional early-career researchers to embark on independent research immediately after completing their doctoral degree or clinical training. This initiative accelerates the transition to independent research careers while supporting innovative projects across all areas of biomedical sciences. It is part of the NIH Common Fund's High-Risk, High-Reward Research program, aiming to foster groundbreaking discoveries.

The NIH Director's Pioneer Award Program aims to support exceptionally creative scientists who propose innovative research projects with the potential to significantly impact biomedical sciences. The program encourages bold ideas that diverge from existing research trajectories and welcomes applications across all areas of the biomedical field. As part of the High-Risk, High-Reward Research Program, this award fosters pioneering efforts that may lead to transformative advancements in health and medicine.

The Gary Williams Family Science Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing STEM degrees. This scholarship is available for residents of Southwest Montana, with a preference for graduates from high schools in Beaverhead County. MSU, founded in 1893, is committed to transforming lives and communities through education and research. With limited awards for incoming students, this scholarship aims to encourage the next generation of scientists in a nurturing academic environment.

The Gates Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship aims to aid undergraduate students and is part of the university's broader commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities. With limited availability for incoming students, it stands as a vital resource for those eager to embark on their agricultural studies.

The Hollier Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing their degrees at this premier institution. With a commitment to education and research, MSU provides quality learning opportunities for over 16,000 students. The scholarship aims to foster innovation and community engagement, helping graduates contribute meaningfully to society. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's dedication to expanding opportunities for students and enhancing Montana's economy and quality of life.

The Holcim, Inc./Kenyon Noble Ready Mix Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. As Montana's premier land-grant institution, MSU is dedicated to providing accessible education and fostering innovation. This scholarship aims to enhance student success and community engagement while addressing the needs of Montana's economy. Award amounts vary, reflecting the university's commitment to supporting future engineers in their quest for academic excellence.

The Hodgskiss Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents pursuing degrees, particularly in Agriculture and Home Economics fields. This scholarship prioritizes students with financial need, enhancing their educational opportunities. Award amounts vary, and it aims to foster innovation and community engagement by preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society. MSU, founded in 1893, is dedicated to education and research, serving over 16,000 students with a commitment to hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving.

The Hoback Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time junior and senior nursing students who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. MSU, a leading public research institution, is dedicated to education, research, and community engagement. The scholarship aims to foster innovation and support students in their academic and professional pursuits, preparing them to contribute positively to society through healthcare.

The Avel Louise Gordly Scholarship supports Black women graduates of Oregon high schools who wish to pursue post-secondary education in Oregon or at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Award amounts vary, with the possibility of renewal for up to four years. Eligible applicants must be Oregon residents, identify as Black and female, and enroll at least half-time in a public or nonprofit private college or university in the United States.

The HEEF: Hispanic Education Endowment Fund Scholarship provides academic financial support to US Citizens, Permanent Residents, and Dream Act/AB 540 students residing in Orange County, California. With awards starting at $2,500, this fund assists high school and community college transfers who demonstrate financial need and plan to enroll in a four-year college or university in Fall 2025. Additional donor-specific sub-funds offer varying amounts, enhancing accessibility to higher education.

The Healthy American Forests Initiative, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to enhance forest health and resilience through targeted funding. This initiative anticipates awarding 10-15 grants ranging from $250,000 to $2 million, supporting projects up to 2 years in duration. A 20% non-federal match is required, and interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with NFWF and Native Americans in Philanthropy for potential match funding.

The Ford Philanthropy Scholarship, offered by the LULAC National Educational Service Centers (LNESC), supports students pursuing STEM careers in the automotive and mobility sectors. It covers tuition, fees, and essential resources, enabling students to thrive academically. Applicants must major in relevant fields such as Computer Science or Engineering and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher. This initiative enhances educational access and fosters leadership, preparing students for future success.

The Ivan L. Leigland Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports second-, third-, and fourth-year students pursuing a degree in Environmental Design. Designed for high school graduates from Montana, this scholarship aims to nurture future leaders in architecture and design. With varying award amounts, it reflects MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement, enhancing educational opportunities in the region while fostering innovation and quality of life for Montanans.

The International Society of Automation (ISA) Montana Section Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology. Eligible candidates must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA with a focus on instrumentation and automation. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities while fostering innovation and practical skills essential for future careers in the engineering field.

The Ingrid and Steffen Doerstling Excellence Scholarship at Montana State University supports third- and fourth-year Environmental Design students with a minimum 3.5 Architecture Studio GPA. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for students while promoting excellence in architectural studies. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to fostering academic achievement and innovation in the field of design. As a leading research institution, MSU prioritizes student success and community engagement.

The IA Tech Ed Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports full-time students in their sophomore, junior, or senior years pursuing a degree in Technology Education. This scholarship reflects the university's commitment to fostering innovation and providing accessible educational opportunities in agricultural and technical education. Award amounts vary, ensuring support for students who strive to excel academically while contributing to their communities through practical learning experiences.

The ASCO Clinical Oncology & Research Experience (ASCO CORE) offers medical students immersive exposure to the field of oncology through shadowing experiences in clinical and research settings. With two distinct tracks, participants can gain insights into patient care or research practices, guided by mentors. Eligible students must be enrolled in a U.S. DO or MD program and maintain a good academic record. This program aims to inspire the next generation of oncology professionals.

About Decatur County Community Foundation

Decatur County Community Foundation connects people who care with causes that matter. 

Our Mission

To inspire the generosity of our community to create a lasting impact.

​We help visionary donors practice highly effective charitable giving; award grants to not-for-profits doing good in the community; award scholarships to ease the financial burden of education for students; provide leadership to make Decatur County a better community.

Online Scholarships

The following scholarships are managed by the Decatur County Community Foundation. Complete details for each scholarship are available on the individual online scholarship application.

Don and Barb Horan Memorial Scholarship

The mission of this scholarship is to help a student residing in Decatur County that will graduate from Oldenburg Academy.