Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The Clifton Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports dedicated sophomore, junior, and senior students engaged with ASMSU, who maintain a minimum 3.2 GPA and contribute to campus or community service. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to fostering student success and community involvement, enhancing educational opportunities for individuals who are prepared to lead and serve. Award amounts vary, with applicants required to answer supplemental questions regarding their ASMSU role.

The Civil Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in civil engineering. As the state's largest public research university, MSU is committed to providing high-quality education and fostering innovation. This scholarship varies in award amounts and aims to enhance student success and community engagement while addressing real-world challenges in engineering.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

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 Charles F. Pierson, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in the Department of Animal and Range Sciences. This scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities within agriculture and related fields, while promoting community engagement and economic development in Montana. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to providing accessible and high-quality education that addresses the needs of students and the broader community.

The Charles Bradley Earth Sciences Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Earth Sciences. MSU, a leading public research institution since 1893, emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement. This scholarship varies in award amounts and aims to enhance students' educational experiences, preparing them for impactful careers in addressing global challenges through scientific inquiry and innovation.

The Charles and Annie Boyer Graduate Support program at Montana State University provides funding for graduate students in the College of Agriculture. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster research that contributes to the agricultural sector. Award amounts may vary, reflecting the university's commitment to supporting students in their academic pursuits and preparing them for impactful careers in agriculture and related fields.

The Century Companies Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time students pursuing a degree in Construction Engineering Technology. As Montana's premier land-grant institution, MSU focuses on high-quality education, research, and community engagement. This scholarship provides varying award amounts and is designed to foster student success and prepare graduates for impactful careers in civil engineering and related fields.

The Cell Biology and Neuroscience Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in these fields. This scholarship, which varies in award amounts, aligns with MSU's commitment to educational excellence and community engagement. As the state's largest public research university, MSU is dedicated to fostering innovation and preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society, addressing the needs of Montana and beyond.

The Carstensen/Haferman RightNow Technologies Student Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship aims to empower future business leaders by providing financial assistance, with award amounts varying to accommodate different needs. MSU, a premier land-grant institution in Montana, is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and community engagement, ensuring students are well-equipped for real-world challenges.

The Crawford Wildlife Habitat Gallatin College Undergraduate Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees or certificates related to wildlife habitat. This scholarship emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, aligning with MSU's mission to foster innovation and prepare graduates for meaningful contributions to society. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship falls under the Workforce Development framework, providing essential financial support to students passionate about environmental stewardship.

The Crawford Wildlife Habitat EHHD Undergraduate Scholarship at Montana State University aims to support undergraduate students in the College of Education, Health & Human Development with interests in wildlife habitat. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to education and research while fostering student success and community engagement. Award amounts vary, promoting opportunities for students who aspire to make meaningful contributions in wildlife habitat and conservation efforts.

The CHS Foundation's Cooperative Education Grant aims to support educational projects that enhance understanding of the agricultural cooperative business model. With a focus on middle school to college-age students, the program encourages innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and engagement strategies. It prioritizes initiatives with a national or state-level reach within the CHS trade area, fostering success and growth in cooperative education. Funding will be allocated to programs that align with these goals, ensuring a robust educational framework for future leaders in agriculture.

The MT Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program aims to enhance recreational opportunities for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts in Montana. It provides funding for projects focused on safety, education, resource maintenance, and improvement. Administered by Montana State Parks with input from the Off-Highway Vehicle Advisory Committee, the program ensures equitable distribution of funds to projects that benefit both users and land management agencies across the state.

The Photonics Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Photonics and Laser Technology, preparing them for high-demand careers in this technical field. With award amounts varying, this scholarship emphasizes workforce development and aligns with industry needs. As Montana's premier land-grant institution, MSU is dedicated to education, research, and community engagement, fostering innovation and opportunity for its students. This initiative reflects MSU's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Montana and beyond.

The Kenneth and Karen Kress Photonics Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Photonics and Laser Technology. This scholarship aims to cultivate skilled professionals in a high-demand field, addressing workforce needs. With varying award amounts, it is part of MSU's commitment to enhancing education and community engagement. Established in 1893, MSU is dedicated to research, innovation, and student success, fostering opportunities that contribute to the economy and quality of life in Montana.

The Montana's Future at Work Grant aims to empower high school students by providing funding for career and technical education (CTE) opportunities. With grants ranging from $30,000 to $50,000, the program focuses on training 10-15 students in high-demand credentials that can be completed in one or two semesters. The initiative encourages community partnerships and aims to enhance student engagement in fields like cybersecurity, nursing, and robotics, ensuring that local youth gain essential skills for their futures.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

This program involves scientists, agricultural producers, and others using interdisciplinary approaches to advance sustainable agriculture at local and regional levels. With the collaboration of producers, projects must integrate rigorous research and education aiming to advance the three components of sustainable agriculture- environmental, economic, and social- and use innovative educational outreach to disseminate new knowledge to students, producers, and stakeholders. It is expected that outcomes of funded projects will result in quantifiable benefits for producers, increase the preservation of the natural resources upon which agriculture depends, and be documented in scholarly journals and disseminated through teaching and educational activities with students, producers, and other agricultural stakeholders. 

FWP's Mission

Steward the fish, wildlife, parks, and recreational resources for the public, now and into the future.

FWP Original Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program

Program Specifics

The Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program provides project funding with the goal of enhancing and maintaining OHV recreational opportunities for the benefit of OHV enthusiasts in Montana. It provides grant funding for safety, ethics and education, resource maintenance, protection and improvement projects.

Montana State Parks administers the OHV grant program with funds appropriated by the State Legislature, and is assisted in grant allocation by the Off-Highway Vehicle Advisory Committee (OHVAC). The OHVAC is comprised of citizens throughout Montana who have a vested interest in managing OHV opportunities as a valuable resource. 

The OHV Grant Program awards approximately $150,000 in grant funds annually. Applications for trail steward positions are limited to a $20,000 grant request. All other projects do not have a maximum award amount and will be subject to the review panel and OHVAC funding decisions. 

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

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 Manufacturing Extension Partnership Center State Competition aims to support small and mid-sized manufacturers in the U.S. by facilitating the adoption of advanced manufacturing technologies. This initiative, funded by the NIST, encourages innovation in manufacturing through the integration of robotics, AI, and other technologies. Eligible applicants can establish MEP Centers in various states, helping manufacturers improve competitiveness and economic outcomes. This program is vital for enhancing productivity and fostering growth in the manufacturing sector.

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 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.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

Native Arts and Heritage Fund

The Native Arts + Heritage Fund (NAHF) is a community-rooted award program created to support Native American and Alaska Native artists, culture bearers, and cultural practitioners across the Creative West region.

Co-designed with Native-centered artists, advisors, and community leaders, NAHF centers care, cultural continuity, and self-determination. The fund honors Indigenous ways of knowing and values process over product, relationship over compliance, and well-being as a meaningful measure of impact. In addition to unrestricted funding, selected artists will participate in a three-month virtual cohort experience designed for connection, reflection, and shared learning.

NAHF is administered by Creative West, an organization that uplifts artists and culture bearers across the Creative West region by providing funding, mentorship, and culturally rooted support.

This is not a project-based grant.

This is an invitation into funding and relationships.

Applicants must provide a letter of support from an Alaska Native or Native American community member who can speak to their relationship to community and cultural work.

Unrestricted Funds May Be Used For:

• Taking time to create, reflect, or rest
• Purchasing tools, materials, or supplies
• Covering food, rent, childcare, or transportation
• Supporting wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, or cultural
• Participating in cultural exchanges, mentorship, or learning
• Creating space to gather, teach, or share knowledge

The Agriculture Heritage Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees with a focus on agriculture. This scholarship honors Montana's agricultural heritage by providing assistance to those connected to rural communities and agricultural fields. MSU, as the state's largest public research university, emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. This initiative not only aids students in achieving their academic goals but also contributes to the future of agriculture in Montana.