Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Montana

The 2026 Carceral Systems Organizing Grant seeks to support organizations working to eradicate carceral systems, create alternative justice solutions, or pursue system reform by addressing systemic criminalization that disproportionately targets Black, Indigenous and people of color (BIPOC) and low-income/poor communities across our five-state region.

We define carceral systems organizing broadly to include all systems that criminalize people’s lives based on race, poverty, gender, immigration status and/or disability. Examples include but are not limited to: 

• Abolition, transformative justice, and alternatives to incarceration
• Ending racial profiling and police brutality
• 'Addressing racial inequities in drug laws
• Child welfare, foster care, child protective services
• Youth incarceration and the school-to-prison pipeline
• Detention and deportation of immigrant communities
• Homeless encampment sweeps and criminalization of survival needs
• Re-entry organizing by and for folks who were recently incarcerated

The Conservation Connect Fellowship Program, offered by the National Forest Foundation, invites graduate students to engage in hands-on conservation projects. This fellowship provides practical experience, mentorship from conservation professionals, and training in collaborative leadership. Fellows will gain a deep understanding of forest management and expand their professional networks. With a focus on developing future conservation leaders, the program seeks students passionate about public lands and community engagement.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The Clifford and Carol Rufenach Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming Montana freshmen pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Applicants must have a minimum 3.0 high school GPA. Founded in 1893, MSU is the state's largest public research university, dedicated to education and research, and aims to foster student success and community engagement. The scholarship provides varying award amounts to help students achieve their academic goals.

The Western Big Game Seasonal Habitat and Migration Corridors Fund, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to enhance big game habitats and migration routes on federal, private, and Tribal lands. With an anticipated funding of $3 million, projects will focus on improving habitats for species like elk and mule deer, fostering biodiversity and climate resilience. This initiative supports sustainable wildlife populations and prioritizes collaborations with key partners such as the U.S. Department of Interior.

The Andrew and Loretta Schwan Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports Montana high school graduates pursuing education in veterinary medicine or animal sciences. Preference is given to students from Hill or Liberty County enrolled in the Pre-Veterinary Program. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to fostering educational opportunities in agriculture and veterinary medicine, ensuring that graduates are prepared to contribute positively to their communities and the state of Montana.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The Howard Kelsey Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees in Health and Human Performance or Kinesiology. As Montana's largest public research university, MSU emphasizes education, research, and community service. This scholarship varies in award amounts and aligns with MSU's mission to enhance student success and foster innovation, ultimately contributing to the region's economic and social development.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows and research trainees in the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research, facilitating their transition to independent research roles at extramural institutions. Key deadlines for applications include October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others, providing ample opportunity for qualified investigators to advance their careers.

Montana Department of Commerce

Every day, staff at Commerce work alongside private industry and local organizations to create jobs, grow businesses, provide affordable housing and improve community infrastructure.

The economy of the Treasure State continues to grow and diversify. Studies rank Montana as the number one place in the country to start a business. Plus, our workforce has earned some of the highest rankings in both trade and technical skills by having one of the highest STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) concentrations in the country. Simply put, Commerce is here to find and remove barriers to your success. Together, we will continue to invest in Montana’s future by growing sustainable economies and vibrant communities.

Tribal Tourism Small Business Grant

The purpose of the program is to provide funding to startup or existing Native American businesses that promote or facilitate tribal tourism in Montana. Program funds can be used for a variety of activities as described below. Commerce anticipates awarding up to $240,000 in program funding on an annual basis to eligible applicants. Grantees will receive program funds on a reimbursement basis after incurring eligible costs.

Tribal tourism: The unique experience of traveling away from home for visitation to tribal communities with the motivation to engage with the tribal citizens, support their businesses and local economy and witness their cultural practices, traditions, celebrations, knowledge, history and lands. Enrolled members of Montana’s federally recognized tribes residing in Montana, aged 18 years or older, may apply for program funds on behalf of their for-profit businesses. 

The Martin Family Foundation, established in 2001, focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations that promote faith-based education, assist the poor and at-risk, and uphold the sanctity of human life. With a mission rooted in Christian values, the Foundation prioritizes programs in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming that break the cycle of poverty and encourage community involvement. While it occasionally supports operating expenses, the Foundation prefers funding projects that align with its core values.

The MDU Resources Foundation seeks to enhance community well-being through grants to qualified organizations. Established in 1983, the foundation primarily funds health, education, civic, cultural, and environmental projects. It prioritizes local initiatives and encourages applications for new programming that addresses unmet needs. Organizations must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities to be eligible. The foundation does not support requests from individuals or for endowment funds, focusing instead on charitable contributions that directly benefit the community.

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

Montana Department of Commerce

Every day, staff at Commerce work alongside private industry and local organizations to create jobs, grow businesses, provide affordable housing and improve community infrastructure.

The economy of the Treasure State continues to grow and diversify. Studies rank Montana as the number one place in the country to start a business. Plus, our workforce has earned some of the highest rankings in both trade and technical skills by having one of the highest STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) concentrations in the country. Simply put, Commerce is here to find and remove barriers to your success. Together, we will continue to invest in Montana’s future by growing sustainable economies and vibrant communities.

Big Sky Film Grant Program

The Montana Film Office was established in 1974 as a central information source for filmmakers and to provide services to the film industry and the citizens of Montana. Its primary role is to promote Montana as a media production location for film, television and print industries. Today, the film office operates within the Destination MT Division of the Montana Department of Commerce and is funded by an allocation of the lodging facility use tax, commonly known as the bed tax. In 2025, the passage of Senate Bill 409 revised laws related to Commerce and the bed tax. The bill updated SB 540, which passed in 2023, restructuring the allocation of bed tax revenue by specifying how Commerce can use these funds for purposes like tourism promotion and grants.

The purpose of the Big Sky Film Grant is to build and support partnerships with filmmakers and productions companies to create film industry jobs throughout the state. In addition to providing grant funding, the Program elevates and supports Montana filmmakers, crew and businesses that provide products, services and locations to the film industry. To qualify, a production must film 50% or more of the principal photography days in Montana.

The Montana Native Plant Society's Small Grants Program offers funding up to $1500 for projects that conserve native plants in Montana. This initiative aims to enhance research, conservation, and education regarding native flora. Eligible projects may cover direct costs such as travel and supplies, while preference is given to those that generate research data, demonstrate collaboration, and include educational components. This program seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for Montana's unique plant communities.

The Maki Foundation Grant Program, established in 1981, focuses on environmental protection in the western United States. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at organizations where modest support can create significant impact. Priorities include wilderness protection, river conservation, biological diversity, and public lands management. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and operate within specific states. The foundation avoids funding large groups or projects involving community recreation facilities and wildlife rehabilitation.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

At the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), we are dedicated to our mission of serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. As the largest executive branch agency in the state, our broad reach allows us to provide essential, community-based support where and when it matters most. Our DPHHS team is passionate about improving our clients’ lives and helping them build a more secure and independent future.

Funding Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals

Join us in a funded project and improve patient care, clinical outcomes, and staff knowledge. DPHHS has a wide variety of available grant opportunities for health improvement that fit any clinic or hospital work schedule. Interested in more than one? We can work with health systems to create an outline of activities to align grants and receive additional funding. 

Diabetes Funding Opportunities: Family Healthy Weight Program Implementation; DSMES-Accreditation Recognition; Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) QI Project; Diabetes Retinopathy QI Project; Diabetes Support Program- Walk With Ease Project; Access to Care Project; Diabetes Support Program Implementation.

Diabetes Support Program Implementation

To identify sites who are interested in implementing a complementary diabetes support program to increase access to diabetes education services for their patients.

The Montana Trout Foundation aims to preserve and enhance Montana's wild trout resources through funding scientific research, education, and habitat enhancement. By promoting awareness of water quality and environmental preservation, the foundation supports projects that contribute to healthier fisheries and improved fishing experiences. Their grant program encourages initiatives that align with these goals, ensuring that the natural environment and trout habitats are maintained for future generations.

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

The Fence Authority Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fields that enhance community beautification, such as architecture, civil engineering, and environmental sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and involved in community service. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute positively to society while furthering their education in impactful disciplines.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The AJ Brahmstadt Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students in the College of Letters and Science with a minimum GPA of 3.25. It favors Economics majors and Oregon residents, honoring AJ Brahmstadt’s heritage. This scholarship aims to empower strong academic achievers to further their education and prepare for impactful careers, reflecting MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement while enhancing opportunities for graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.

The A. K. Erhardt Education Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, aims to support students in the Department of Education who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to upperclassmen and Montana high school graduates. This scholarship fosters the growth of future educators by providing essential financial assistance, enabling students to pursue impactful careers in teaching and educational leadership.

The Bryan Coleridge McDougall Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students, with a preference for Troy, Montana high school graduates. This scholarship prioritizes students in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and those from the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering innovation in its diverse student body.

The Dick Anderson Construction Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing degrees in Civil Engineering or Construction Engineering Technology. This scholarship emphasizes student success and community engagement, aligning with MSU's mission to foster innovation and prepare graduates for meaningful contributions. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship may be renewable for past recipients who meet all qualifications and reapply annually.

STOP Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

MBCC is soliciting proposals for STOP (Services-Training-Officers-Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) to be funded by the Office on Violence Against Women. The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) is a component of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ). Created in 1995, OVW implements the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation and provides national leadership on issues of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. Since its inception, OVW has supported a multifaceted approach to responding to these crimes through implementation of grant programs authorized by VAWA. By forging state, local and tribal partnerships among police, prosecutors, judges, victim advocates, health care providers, faith leaders, organizations that serve culturally specific and underserved communities, and others, OVW grants help provide victims, across their life span, with the protection and services they need to pursue safe and healthy lives, while improving communities’ capacity to provide justice for victims and hold offenders accountable.

The application process is competitive. Previous funding does not guarantee an award during this funding cycle. Approximately $800,000 will be available during the project period, depending upon availability of federal funds. Because federal funds are not always available immediately following the award date, applicants should prepare for this contingency.

Matching contributions of 25% (cash or in-kind) of the total cost of the STOP VAWA project (federal funds plus local match) are required and must be derived from non-federal sources. All funds designated as match are restricted to the same uses as the federal funds and must be expended within the grant period. Federally Recognized Tribes and victim services providers are not required to provide match.

ATTENTION: This funding opportunity is for grant funding that the Montana Board of Crime Control (MBCC) administers that originates from the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ). To continue program activities designed to maintain public safety services, MBCC has determined that it will proceed with this funding opportunity. MBCC anticipates that new grant guidance may be issued in 2026 to reflect USDOJ’s revised policies and priorities. New USDOJ guidance could change the terms and conditions and the availability of funding for any grants that are executed from this funding opportunity. MBCC will share new grant conditions, guidance, and requirements with all grantees as they become available. In some instances, executed grant awards may be revised or cancelled.