Best Grants for Equine Nonprofits in Montana

The Dressage Foundation

The Dressage Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, tax-exempt organization, whose mission is to cultivate and provide financial support for the advancement of dressage in the United States.

In 1989, Lowell Boomer founded The Dressage Foundation (TDF) with a vision: to empower dressage across the country. Since then, we've awarded millions of dollars in grants, helping people across our sport, and across the country, achieve their dreams. From grassroots initiatives to high-performance endeavors, we aim to create a strong, inclusive, and vibrant dressage community.

We strive to cultivate dressage excellence by reducing some of the financial barriers of dressage training and education, and we believe that every aspect of our sport deserves help.

George Williams Young Professional Fund

The George Williams Young Professional Fund supports dressage professionals, ages 25-35, who are committed to the sport and have established businesses as instructors and trainers.   

The George Williams Young Professional Fund was established in 2018 to honor his lifelong commitment to dressage. Applicants should have a strong desire to participate in continuing education opportunities, in order to provide higher-quality instruction to their students. 

Equine organizations promoting Morgan horses, including AMHA clubs, organized Morgan groups, Morgan barns, and AMHA-affiliated organizations in Montana, can request up to US $10,000 for any Morgan breed promotion purpose. Focused on equestrian sports, the American Morgan Horse Association funds projects where involved horses are registered Morgans and checks are not payable to individuals.

Students who have participated in equestrian activities and are entering or continuing college can apply for more than US $1,000 from the North Carolina Community Foundation. Focused on equestrian sports, this scholarship supports undergraduates, graduates, and adult re-entry students in U.S. institutions, which may benefit Montana equine students connected to local nonprofits.

Female high school seniors involved in equestrian sports who live in Henderson, Smith, or Van Zandt County and plan to attend any U.S. college can receive $1,250 for tuition, fees, room and board, or books through the Leslie Reid Memorial Scholarship. Students in Montana with similar interests may look to East Texas Communities Foundation for equestrian-focused opportunities.

Children and adults with cystic fibrosis in California seeking support for horseback riding, dance, or golf can apply for Loretta Morris Memorial Grants, with awards up to US $750. Focused on equestrian and other physical activities, BreatheStrong CF pays approved funds directly to activity providers, which may benefit equine programs alongside individual participation.

U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations promoting polo or tennis, including those in Montana, can seek support to expand youth and other programming. Collin Frederic C TUW provides Montana equestrian sports groups and related nonprofits with US $2,000 - US $3,800 to promote these sports, with applications accepted year-round and reviewed at an annual meeting.

Montana equestrian sports programs can access funding through the National Collegiate Athletic Association for standout student-athletes pursuing accredited graduate study. Former or current student-athletes at active NCAA member institutions in their final year of eligibility, with strong academics and leadership, may be nominated for one-time, non-renewable US $10,000 postgraduate scholarships in fall sports, including women’s equestrian.

Equine adoption and welfare nonprofits in Montana can apply for ASPCA funding to expand adoption capacity or provide safety-net programs that help keep owned horses in their homes, with awards of US $5,000 - US $50,000. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals supports eligible Right Horse partners and Warm-Up Ring participants serving retired Thoroughbred racehorses.

Equine adoption organizations focused on retired Thoroughbred racehorses can seek US $10,000 - US $40,000 to expand capacity and improve adoption outcomes in Montana and nationwide. With a mission to protect animals, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provides support for training, rehabilitation, adopter engagement, and collaborative programs through this initiative.

Universities, animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and other public or private entities conducting animal welfare research can seek funding up to US $50,000 for shelter-focused studies benefiting equines, dogs, and cats. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals supports rigorous research in the U.S. and eligible Canadian institutions, which may include work with Montana equine nonprofits.

Universities, animal welfare organizations, veterinary clinics, and other research-focused entities in Montana can seek up to US $50,000 for equine, cat, or dog cruelty research that improves animal welfare in the U.S. With a mission to advance animal welfare science, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals provides competitive research grants across the U.S. and Canada.

Universities, veterinary hospitals, animal welfare organizations, and other U.S.-based entities researching access to veterinary care for equines, cats, or dogs can seek up to US $50,000 for rigorous studies. ASPCA supports projects that generate practical tools or guidelines; Montana equine nonprofits partnering with researchers may be eligible collaborators.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Montana with audited expenses over $2 million can seek more than US $100,000 to support proven social service programs that build economic independence and strengthen families. William Randolph Hearst Foundation provides program, capital, and general support; equine nonprofits with large, direct-service operations may be eligible if they address poverty and related needs.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Montana equine nonprofits focused on community services like economic stability, workforce development, health, or disaster relief can access funding through O'Reilly Automotive Foundation. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations near O’Reilly Auto Parts locations may request project, general operating, or capital support for programs benefiting underserved and underrepresented individuals and families.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Montana equine and other nonprofit organizations with strong, replicable community partnerships can access recognition and support through the Mutual Of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award. This U.S.-wide competition honors collaborations among public, private, and social sector partners that measurably improve communities and address significant social issues, which may include equestrian sports or related programming.

Nonprofit and humanitarian organizations supporting health, education, or disaster relief for marginalized communities in Montana and worldwide may be eligible for funding that advances human and social services. Focused on global health and welfare, Semnani Family Foundation invites groups whose work may intersect with equine-assisted or related community programs to explore partnership opportunities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help Montana 501(c)(3) organizations fund charitable, educational, scientific, and medical programs, with all funds used in the U.S. Eligible nonprofits with well-managed operations and broad community impact, including those running equine or equestrian sports initiatives, may be competitive applicants.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Scaife Family Foundation Grant has been supporting vulnerable community members for nearly 40 years, providing over $180 million in donations to non-profits. The Foundation aims to match organizations with aligned goals, focusing on women and children, addiction prevention, and animal welfare. It offers grants for general operating and program support, prioritizing impactful programs that address societal issues. Notably, the Foundation considers proposals that foster healthy relationships and promote treatment for addiction, enhancing the welfare of both humans and animals.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.