Best Financial Assistance Grants in Montana

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.

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 Computer Science Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time undergraduate students in the Gianforte School of Computing with a minimum GPA of 3.0. As Montana's premier land-grant institution, MSU emphasizes academic excellence and hands-on learning, fostering innovation and community engagement. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing degrees in computing, ensuring they are equipped to lead and contribute to society effectively.

The Don Morris Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate Montana residents pursuing degrees in Agriculture. Applicants must be student athletes maintaining a minimum 3.25 GPA. This scholarship aims to encourage academic excellence while promoting physical fitness and community engagement among students, contributing to the university's mission of fostering innovation and serving the state.

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 College of Letters and Science General Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in various fields. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities while fostering community engagement and economic development. Award amounts vary, providing essential financial support to help students achieve their academic goals. By prioritizing student success, MSU empowers graduates to lead and contribute positively to society.

The Don Harrington Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Priority is given to MSU Rodeo Team members, followed by those from rural backgrounds or farm families, and children of Pepsi employees. This scholarship embodies MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement, contributing to the growth of individuals who will positively impact society.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Hospitality Management Industry Partners Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Hospitality Management. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for those interested in the hospitality field, with award amounts varying based on need and merit. Montana State University, a leading public research institution, is committed to fostering student success and community engagement, providing resources to prepare graduates for meaningful contributions to society.

The Mignon Waterman Award honors individuals who demonstrate innovation, leadership, partnership development, and significant progress in enhancing behavioral health in Montana. Established to celebrate Mignon Waterman's dedication to public service and mental health advocacy, this award provides a $10,000 grant to organizations nominating eligible candidates. Only Montana-based nonprofits, universities, state or local agencies, or Tribal governments can submit nominations. This award aims to recognize and support efforts that improve mental health services across the state.

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.

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 Howard J. McCrodden Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports junior and senior students majoring in Construction Engineering Technology. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7 and show a strong interest in a construction career. This scholarship aims to promote academic excellence and career readiness in the construction field, helping students develop the necessary skills to thrive in their future professions.

The Houston Area Alumni Chapter Legacy Scholarship supports undergraduate students at Montana State University (MSU) who reside in the Houston metropolitan area. Preference is given to children or grandchildren of MSU alumni. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to fostering student success and community engagement, offering varying award amounts to help students achieve their educational goals while contributing to the local economy and society.

The Hollier Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing their degrees at this premier institution. With a commitment to education and research, MSU provides quality learning opportunities for over 16,000 students. The scholarship aims to foster innovation and community engagement, helping graduates contribute meaningfully to society. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's dedication to expanding opportunities for students and enhancing Montana's economy and quality of life.

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 Hodgskiss Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents pursuing degrees, particularly in Agriculture and Home Economics fields. This scholarship prioritizes students with financial need, enhancing their educational opportunities. Award amounts vary, and it aims to foster innovation and community engagement by preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society. MSU, founded in 1893, is dedicated to education and research, serving over 16,000 students with a commitment to hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving.

The Bob and Debra Thomas Scholarship at Montana State University supports students in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship who demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to Ravalli County residents with agricultural backgrounds. This scholarship aims to empower students by alleviating financial burdens while fostering education in business, ultimately contributing to the local economy and community development.

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.

Mini Grants: Supporting Projects for Older Adults

The Annual Governor’s Conference on Aging, sponsored by the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging (GAC), supports rural communities with populations fewer than 10,000 through a mini-grant program. Designed to aid communities with limited resources in meeting the needs of older adults, these grants range from $200 to $1,000. They assist in various capacities, such as providing training materials, health equipment, kitchen supplies for meal preparation, and development of senior support services.

Funding for these mini-grants is garnered through sponsorships and a silent auction held during the annual conference. Projects completed with grant funds must be documented with photos and financial records, and a report to the GAC is required by year-end.

Applicants should demonstrate collaboration with the aging network. Partnerships between the public and private sectors are encouraged.

The Helyn McGown Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Health and Human Performance or Kinesiology. Established to enhance educational opportunities, this scholarship varies in award amounts and is designed to foster academic excellence in health-related fields. MSU, as Montana's premier land-grant institution, emphasizes community engagement and research that improves quality of life. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to developing graduates who can lead and contribute positively to society.

The Henrietta Moebus Bolitho Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports full-time students pursuing degrees in Home Economics-related fields. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of education in areas like Community Health, Early Childhood Education, and Hospitality Management, aiming to empower students to lead and contribute positively to society while benefiting from MSU's commitment to experiential learning and community engagement.

The Henry E. Niles Foundation Scholarship at Montana State University is designed to support American Indian or Alaska Native students who are returning after a year away. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for these students, promoting inclusivity and success in their academic pursuits. Award amounts vary, aligning with MSU's mission of fostering community engagement and student achievement, ensuring that individuals are equipped to contribute positively to society.

The Dr. Dorothy Christiansen Dannis Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees from the College of Letters and Science. As Montana's leading public research university, MSU offers a vibrant educational environment focused on academic excellence and community engagement. Award amounts vary, emphasizing the institution's commitment to fostering innovation and opportunity for its students, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to society.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Robanna Fund, established in 1992 by Robert and Deanna Levy, supports students pursuing careers in healthcare. Administered by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, the fund awards scholarships averaging $6,000, depending on various factors such as the number of qualified applicants and donor preferences. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, reside in Hawai‘i, intend to major in a health-related field, and demonstrate financial need. This initiative aims to cultivate future healthcare professionals in the community.

The Kids Fund offers multi-year grants of up to $50,000 to support programs addressing critical needs for youth in the Flathead Valley. Administered by the Whitefish Community Foundation, these grants focus on education, health, safety, food access, and housing. Organizations eligible for funding must be based in Flathead County and hold a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. The Kids Fund aims to empower local youth and prevent homelessness by enhancing existing initiatives and launching new programs.

The Applied Materials Foundation offers grants focusing on education, arts and culture, civic engagement, the environment, and girls' empowerment. These grants are designed to meet local community needs and support innovative projects that enhance educational opportunities, promote cultural activities, and foster civic participation. The foundation prioritizes collaboration with local organizations in areas where Applied Materials operates, ensuring impactful contributions to community resilience and sustainability.