Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Jack Handford Summer Internship

The Western Region actively supports student members who show promise as new professionals and encourages institutions and students to apply for the Jack Handford Summer Internship offered every other year, i.e. 2026 and 2028. The internship is appropriate for students with majors such as costume studies, material culture, museum studies, fashion history, or similar. The internship is intended to average duration of six weeks or a total of 120 hours. The grant may change depending on the budget; the 2024 winner received $3,000.

Student applicants must be current CSA Western Region members to apply. Check the forms: Institution Application and Student Application. All forms and other materials stated in the form should be submitted to Naomi Arnst, CSA-Western Region, Student Awards and Summer Internship Chair.

The Ardy SixKiller Clarke Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing careers in education. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in the Teacher Education Program, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75, and provide proof of American Indian heritage. This need-sensitive award aims to assist future educators dedicated to serving their communities, while also reinforcing MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement.

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 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 NLSOT Postdoctoral Travel Award aims to support postdoctoral researchers from the Northland SOT region by covering travel costs to the national SOT Annual Meeting. This initiative encourages their participation in chapter activities, fostering professional development and collaboration. Eligible expenses include meeting registration, airfare, hotel accommodations, and meals, making it a valuable opportunity for emerging scientists to engage with the broader toxicology community.

The Angus and Anne McMillan Family EHHD Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Home Economics-related fields such as Community Health, Early Childhood Education, and Family and Consumer Sciences. This scholarship aims to enhance student success and community engagement while addressing the needs of Montana. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering innovation in health and human development.

The Town Pump Charitable Foundation, established in 1999, supports Montana charitable and governmental organizations focusing on basic needs, education, and community assistance. Grants are available for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental entities, aiming to enhance the quality of life for Montana citizens. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives addressing food insecurity, educational programs, and community projects, fostering stronger and sustainable communities across the state.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.

The NLSOT Graduate Student Travel Award aims to assist graduate students from the Northland SOT region with travel costs to the national SOT Annual Meeting. This award encourages student involvement in local chapter activities and can be used for various travel-related expenses, including registration, airfare, lodging, and meals. By supporting student participation, the award fosters academic growth and networking opportunities within the toxicology community.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

The WISEWOMAN Program, funded by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, aims to conduct cardiovascular risk assessments for low-income women aged 35-64 who are uninsured or underinsured. This initiative addresses social determinants of health (SDOH) and includes tracking referrals and participation in Healthy Behavior Support Services. It is designed to improve women's health outcomes by ensuring access to necessary health programs and services.

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 Doris Fogler Braughton Fine Arts Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students enrolled in the School of Art who attend at least half-time. This scholarship aims to enhance the educational experience of aspiring artists by providing financial assistance, thereby fostering creativity and innovation in the arts. MSU, a leading public research university, is committed to student success and community engagement, preparing graduates for impactful contributions to society.

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 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.

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 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 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 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 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 Homebuilders Association of Billings Scholarship supports students pursuing a Civil Engineering degree at Montana State University. Eligible applicants must be high school graduates from Yellowstone County and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75. Award amounts vary, reflecting the scholarship's commitment to fostering education in engineering fields. Montana State University, a premier institution in research and education, offers a robust environment for academic and personal growth, ensuring graduates are prepared to contribute meaningfully to society.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

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.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The Native Voices Endowment Grants, managed by the Endangered Language Fund, support the preservation of endangered languages associated with Native American tribes that interacted with the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1803-1806. Grants are available for language documentation, revitalization, and educational projects, fostering cultural heritage through various initiatives. Eligible applicants include tribal members and language programs, ensuring the continuation of linguistic traditions and community involvement in revitalizing native languages.