Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The Christie Johnson Accounting Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing an Accounting Option degree within the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities in accounting, fostering academic excellence and real-world problem-solving skills. With varying award amounts, it reflects MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

Ranchland Stewardship Program

The Ranchland Stewardship Program is designed to transform rangelands into thriving, carbon-rich landscapes that support agricultural productivity and environmental resilience. Led by The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC), in partnership with state and federal agencies, nonprofit organizations, university researchers, and industry groups, the program leverages data-driven adaptive management to increase soil carbon while enhancing the economic viability of Montana’s ranching operations.

Background

The Business Acceleration and Marketing program (BAM) is funded through the Montana Growth Through Agriculture program (GTA). GTA was created by the 1987 Legislature and is administered by the seven member Montana Agriculture Development Council, which is attached to the Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA). The legislative purpose of the program is to strengthen and diversify Montana's agricultural industry through loans and grants to assist the development of innovative agricultural business organizational improvements and the commercialization and marketing of new agricultural products in order to keep pace with a transforming agricultural industry and to create new jobs and expand small business opportunities. Funds are available now and are awarded on a quarterly basis, in the order the application is received, until funds are expended.

These funds are to:

• Help businesses access and develop new and existing markets.
• Support businesses in overcoming market barriers
• Expand businesses' digital/web offerings
• Fund projects still in early expansionary phase of development
• Support startup businesses in minimizing time to profitability.
• Offer expanding businesses the ability to establish groundwork for capital expenditure.
• Accelerate new, innovative products up to commercialization.

The Crossman-Whitney-Griffin Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports third- and fourth-year students pursuing a degree in Environmental Design. This scholarship rewards students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, as indicated by their cumulative GPA. Award amounts may vary, reflecting the commitment of MSU to foster innovation and excellence in education. As a leading public research university, MSU emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.

The Crowley Family Biochemistry Scholarship at Montana State University supports junior and senior students pursuing degrees in Biochemistry, with preference for those in the Honors College. This scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and community engagement, reflecting MSU's commitment to student success and research that enhances Montana's quality of life. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship falls under the Chemistry and Biochemistry scopes, promoting innovation and opportunity for future leaders.

The D.A. Davidson Silver Fund Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to enhancing student success through financial assistance, enabling graduates to thrive in their chosen fields. Established in 1893, MSU is dedicated to research and service, providing accessible education that addresses the needs of Montana and beyond. Award amounts vary, reflecting the diverse opportunities available for aspiring business leaders.

The Catholic School Leadership Development Grant Program aims to cultivate and retain promising leaders within the Catholic school system. In partnership with Loyola Marymount University, this initiative offers a graduate-level online Certificate in Catholic School Administration, covering 80% of tuition costs and providing funding for essential travel. The one-year program focuses on mission effectiveness, operational management, and instructional leadership, requiring participants to serve two years in their diocese post-completion, thereby enhancing local educational leadership.

The Conservation District Pollinator Grants aim to enhance pollinator habitats in Montana, offering funding between $5,000 and $15,000 for eligible projects. These grants prioritize initiatives that include monitoring plans and community engagement strategies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate conservation benefits and have a solid public outreach plan. The program encourages innovative approaches to educate the public about pollinators' vital role in ecosystems and supports projects that actively involve local communities.

The Western Society of Malacologists offers Student Research Grants in Malacology to support research in the study of mollusks. Grants of up to $1000 are available for full-time students engaged in relevant projects. Applicants from all countries are welcome, with no citizenship restrictions. This initiative encourages students to present their findings at WSM meetings, promoting academic growth and collaboration within the malacological community.

The Montana Civil Monetary Penalty Reinvestment Funds support initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of care for nursing home residents. Funds are allocated to assist facilities facing closure, support resident relocation, and improve care quality through technical assistance and training programs. This program, managed by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, aims to utilize civil monetary penalties imposed on non-compliant nursing homes to directly benefit vulnerable populations and improve their overall quality of life.

Montana Cardiovascular Health Program 

Program Description

The Montana Cardiovascular Health Program has been funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention since 2000. The program conducts statewide activities to prevent heart disease and stroke and associated risk factors - particularly hypertension The program has:

• Formed a Cardiovascular Learning Collaborative with the mission "Striving for comprehensive whole person care for all Montanans to enhance quality of life."
• Assessed existing policies and systems that promote cardiovascular health in a variety of settings including pharmacies and healthcare.
• Formed the Montana Stroke Workgroup. This is a working collaborative of doctors, emergency response professionals, rehabilitation professionals and healthcare facilities dedicated to implementing a statewide Stroke Initiative to enhance diagnosis, treatment and care of stroke patients.

Funding Opportunity

Community-Based Organization Project

12-months

Community-Based Organizations partner with a healthcare organization (using CONNECT to receive referrals) to improve non-medical factors like food insecurity, housing instability, etc. that influence overall health.

The Cory and Diane Pulfrey Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports junior and senior students in the Finance Option of the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for students while fostering academic excellence in finance, contributing to the development of skilled professionals in Montana's economy.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

The William B. Pratt Endowment Fund, established for the people of Montana, aims to support the sharing of untold stories about the state's arts, culture, and history. This fund awards grants annually to enhance media arts education and production in Montana, ranging from $500 to $2,000. Grants require a dollar-for-dollar match in cash or in-kind contributions, with provisions for simplified applications for smaller requests, ensuring accessibility for all applicants.

The Gianforte Family Foundation, established in 2004, aims to empower Montana youth through robotics clubs. By providing annual sponsorships of up to $1,000 per team or 25% of the team's budget, the foundation encourages engagement in coding and computer science. This initiative aligns with their mission to help individuals and families flourish economically and spiritually, supporting sustainable improvements in their lives. Interested clubs can apply through the provided application link.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Crawford Wildlife Habitat Business & Entrepreneurship Undergraduate Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business & Entrepreneurship with a focus on wildlife habitat. This scholarship emphasizes hands-on learning and aims to cultivate leaders equipped to enhance Montana's economy and community well-being. Award amounts are variable, reflecting the scholarship's commitment to fostering student success and addressing environmental concerns.

The Elizabeth Seitz Moyer Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship with a minimum 2.5 GPA, prioritizing those with financial need. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to educational access and community engagement, aiding students in their pursuit of business degrees. Award amounts vary, reflecting the university's dedication to fostering success and growth within the state's economy.

The Stimulating Hematology Investigation: New Endeavors (SHINE) program aims to enhance nonmalignant hematology research aligned with the goals of the NIDDK, NIA, and NHLBI. It invites R01 grant applications focused on innovative and early translational hematology topics, fostering growth in this critical research area. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, allowing for both standard and renewal submissions.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The DOWL HKM Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Civil or General Engineering, requiring a minimum 3.0 GPA. Preference is given to children of DOWL HKM employees and incoming freshmen. This scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities, enhance student success, and contribute to the engineering field, reflecting MSU's commitment to community engagement and research that benefits Montana's economy and quality of life.

The Share the Bounty Grant, offered by The Andersons Inc Charitable Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in communities through support for agriculture, social services, civic engagement, education, arts, and health initiatives. By investing in these key areas, The Andersons seeks to foster environments where individuals and families can thrive, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for all residents in the regions they serve.

The Charles and Ruth Bowman Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time students pursuing degrees in Civil Engineering, with a preference for Environmental Engineering. Established in 1893, MSU is Montana's largest public research university, dedicated to education, research, and community service. This scholarship aims to foster innovation and prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to society, enhancing the quality of life in Montana while addressing global challenges.

The NorthWestern Energy Impact Analysis Grant Program offers funding for cities, counties, economic development organizations, and non-profits in Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Grant applications are simple, requiring a one-page form, with decisions made within 48 hours. The program aims to assess the economic impacts of local businesses and development projects. Circle Analytics will provide detailed reports on the economic footprint, including job creation and community benefits, to support informed decision-making.

The NRA Foundation: Montana Grants provides funding for charitable purposes aligned with its mission, primarily focusing on promoting firearms safety, education, and marksmanship. Eligible organizations must hold a Federal Employer Identification Number and can include IRS 501(c)(3) entities, government bodies, or state-recognized nonprofits. Ineligible applicants include labor organizations, private enterprises, and individuals. The Foundation emphasizes public benefit in funded projects, ensuring they contribute positively to the community.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The Carolyn Thompson Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports senior students in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology with a minimum GPA of 3.45. Preference is given to double majors, those working while studying, and students engaged in hands-on engineering activities. The scholarship aims to foster innovation and community engagement by preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society. Award amounts vary, aligning with the Engineering, Mechanical, and Industrial Engineering scope.