Best Financial Assistance Grants in Montana

The VFW is dedicated to promoting patriotism and investing in our future generation. If you are a democracy-loving high school student interested in a $35,000 college scholarship or a patriotic middle school student interested in winning $5,000, these scholarships may be for you.

VFW Youth Scholarships- Voice of Democracy

Established in 1947, our Voice of Democracy® audio-essay program provides high school students with the unique opportunity to express themselves in regards to a democratic and patriotic-themed recorded essay. Each year, nearly 28,000 ninth through 12th grade students from across the country enter to win their share of more than $1.6 million in educational scholarships and incentives awarded through the program. 

The national first place winner receives a $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. The complete list of other national scholarships range up to $21,000, with the first place winner from each VFW Department (state) winning a scholarship of at least $1,000.

VFW Department (state) first place winners also receive a trip to participate in Founding Forward’s Spirit of America Youth Leadership experience at Valley Forge which is an inspiring four-day program where students experience mock congressional debates, participate in a free enterprise challenge, visit historical sites and engage in interactive educational activities. This immersive experience allows students to develop their critical thinking and leadership skills while understanding their responsibilities as citizens. The trip, awarded to every VFW Department (state) winner, is made possible through the generous support of Twisted X.

Students interested in participating must submit their audio essay prepared on this year's theme, with a completed entry form to their local participating VFW Post. 

The Jack Mashin Academic Scholarship is designed for undergraduate students at Montana State University who demonstrate financial need, outstanding academic achievements, and a commitment to community service. This scholarship aims to support full-time students pursuing their degrees while promoting leadership potential. The award can be applied exclusively to tuition and fees, reinforcing the university's mission to foster student success through advocacy and excellent service.

The Jack L. Frost Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, aims to support students pursuing their degrees while embodying the spirit of innovation and academic excellence. This scholarship is specifically for Montana residents, emphasizing the importance of local educational opportunities. Eligible candidates must be graduates of Montana high schools and currently enrolled at Montana State University. The scholarship amount varies, reflecting a commitment to fostering academic success within the community.

The NIH HEAL Initiative PainCare Clinician Training Program (PCTP) offers Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Awards (K08) to support emerging independent researchers in pain management. This program aims to develop a new generation of skilled investigators by providing essential NIH research funding during their early careers. Notable deadlines for grant applications range from October 2024 to June 2027, ensuring ample opportunity for applicants to submit their proposals and enhance their research capabilities.

The Dan L. Hickey Memorial Scholarship, established in 1998 by his children, honors the legacy of Mr. Hickey, a U.S. Air Force veteran and educator. This scholarship supports graduating high school seniors from Dayton Public High Schools who plan to major in education, reflecting Mr. Hickey's commitment to teaching and student development. By investing in future educators, the scholarship aims to foster a new generation dedicated to excellence in education.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Maude and Harvey Goehring Scholarship

This scholarship is for a student preparing to teach physical science or mathematics in the public secondary schools. The recipient shall be a citizen and resident of Henderson County and shall have graduated from a Henderson County high school. The recipient shall be required to need financial assistance to pursue his or her education at a post-high school institution.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

American Legion, Post 77, Hubert M. Smith Scholarship

The applicant must be the son, daughter, grandson, granddaughter or stepchild of a current member in good standing for 12 months prior to the scholarship deadline, or of a deceased member in good standing at the time of his death, of Hubert M. Smith, Post 77, American Legion. The applicant must be age 23 or less at the time of the application and be a graduating senior or graduate of a public, parochial or private school who intends to enroll in a two-year or four-year degree granting program.

The Professional & Technical Training Scholarships-Mission San Rafael Scholarship, offered by 10,000 Degrees, aims to support Marin County students with financial need pursuing vocational programs that lead to a license or certificate. Eligible applicants include Marin residents or San Rafael Unified School District graduates, attending accredited training institutions. This initiative provides not only financial aid but also essential resources to ensure students' success in their educational journeys.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Charles W. and Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund

The purpose of the Charles W. & Michelle Dickinson Scholarship Fund is to support charitable causes, with a particular emphasis on Christian-based organizations and initiatives that serve individuals, families, and communities in need.

In addition, the Fund is committed to investing in the next generation of skilled trades professionals by awarding scholarships to students pursuing careers in vocational and technical fields, including:

• Diesel Mechanics
• Automotive Mechanics
• Welding
• Auto Body Repair
• Collision Repair

Through charitable giving and educational support, the Fund seeks to create opportunities, encourage self-sufficiency, and make a lasting impact in the lives of individuals while honoring the values of faith, hard work, service, and community,

Charles W. Dickinson is the founder of D&D Collision Services, C M D Services Inc & Pottstown Area Rapid Transit.

Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program

The Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program seeks to honor Renna Clarinet Thornton’s philosophy and enthusiasm for education.

After graduating from Coppin State College with her degree in special education in 1972, Renna started her 40-year teaching journey with Baltimore City Public Schools as a science teacher and special educator.

Through the Clarinet Program, the Claude C. Thornton Foundation offers workforce development training, a $1,000 scholarship to collegiate students, as well as parent coaching 1:1s and workshops.

Mission

The Clarinet Scholarship provides awardees with unrestricted monetary and mentorship support to empower minority students through their academic journey, ultimately promoting exceptional achievement. The Clarinet Scholarship also serves to encourage awardees to continue utilizing inquiry-based strategies to gain the academics and skills needed to be victorious and productive within the community.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

Palmetto Citizens Scholarship Fund

At Palmetto Citizens, we're committed to giving back to our members and community, beyond just providing low-cost financial services. We're excited to partner with the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation to award TWENTY individual members with a $1,000 Pametto Citizens Scholarship!

The Carolinas Credit Union Foundation offers a General Fund Scholarship if you are not chosen, or are not eligible, to receive a Palmetto Citizens Scholarship. You are automatically entered into this General Fund Scholarship by submitting an application for the Palmetto Citizens Scholarship (cannot be awarded both). 

The Craft Research Fund Grant, initiated in 2005, is a key program supporting scholarly craft research in the U.S. It funds researchers and curators exploring craft history and theory, with a focus on projects that reveal new insights into craft practices, relationships between hand-made and digital technologies, and global contexts for American craft. The grant aims to encourage innovation and interdisciplinary approaches in the field, while prioritizing applications from underrepresented populations.

About the Chester County Community Foundation

Our Mission

The Chester County Community Foundation connects people who care with the causes that matter, so their philanthropy makes a difference now and forever.

Patricia Alleva DeHaven Scholarship Fund

Mission Statement

The Patricia Alleva DeHaven Scholarship Fund was established by the late William Thomas “Bill” DeHaven to honor his late wife after her long fight with cancer. Patricia was deeply loved by those around her as a loving wife, mother, second-mother to many of her children’s friends and husband’s coworkers, grandmother, and friend. Patricia was a biochemist for Merk & Co. while tremendously cooking and feeding anyone who came into her home. She worked as a volunteer for crime victims, raised money for veterans, and devoted much time to her church, St. Monica in Berwyn. The Patricia Alleva DeHaven Scholarship Award is presented annually in honor and memory of Patricia Alleva DeHaven who believed deeply in the value of Catholic education.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship. 

About NUFCU

Neighbors United Federal Credit Union is a federally chartered, not-for-profit financial cooperative, offering a wide array of financial services and products to meet our members’ needs since 1961. We are owned by our members, and excess income is returned to them in the form of lower fees, and more attractive rates.

Membership in Neighbors United Federal Credit Union is open to persons who live, work, worship, or attend school, and businesses and other legal entities located in the following counties in South Carolina: Greenwood, Laurens, Edgefield, Abbeville, Newberry, Saluda, and McCormick.

Neighbors United Federal Credit Union Scholarship Fund

With a Neighbors United FCU Scholarship, you have the chance to win the funds you need to start your college experience!  

Students can apply for the Neighbors United scholarship of $1,000.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Oriole Foundation / Paula & Art Janousek Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of Paula and Art Janousec. The Paula and Art Janousec Memorial Scholarship was established with funds donated by the Janousecs and the scholarship was named in their honor by former superintendent Cal DeKuiper who knew the Janousecs as his neighbors. Living next to the superintendent, the Janousecs were inspired and impressed by Ludington's staff and administration's dedication to education and students and cooperative spirit. Their wish was to create a legacy of support as friends of Ludington's educational community.

The Daryl Jones Memorial Scholarship honors a beloved coach and mentor from the Dayton area. It is designed for high school graduates who aspire to follow in his footsteps by pursuing a career in education or mentorship. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and be accepted into a two- or four-year college. This scholarship aims to support those who embody Daryl's values of community, teamwork, and dedication.

The LaRue Ottaway Scholarship, offered by the Union City Community Foundation, provides financial support to 15-20 graduating seniors each year pursuing degrees in the medical field. With an average funding of $20,000 annually, this scholarship emphasizes academic excellence, requiring a minimum GPA of 3.0. Recipients are chosen based on criteria set by the donor, ensuring a fair selection process that highlights deserving candidates from the Union City Area.

The Helen M. Free Award for Public Outreach, established by the American Chemical Society, recognizes outstanding volunteer achievements in public outreach that enhance public appreciation for chemistry. Awardees, selected based on their advocacy, creativity, and impact, receive a crystal award and a $2,000 prize. Nominees must be ACS members whose volunteer efforts have significantly increased public awareness of chemistry's importance. This annual award highlights activities that engage diverse audiences, promoting the significance of chemical sciences in everyday life.

For 30 years, the Carolinas Credit Union Foundation has served as a partner in philanthropy to credit unions, with a mission to empower and inspire credit unions in the Carolinas through collaborative opportunities to enrich our communities. A great example of this collaborative philanthropy is our scholarship program. 

More than 20 credit unions in North Carolina and South Carolina have active managed funds at the Foundation. The generosity of these credit unions helps hundreds of high school seniors as well as undergraduate and graduate students receive scholarship funds each year.

As a member of any of the following credit unions, you may apply for a scholarship.

Piedmont Advantage Credit Union (PACU) 

Headquartered in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and founded in 1949 within the aviation industry, Piedmont Advantage Credit Union (PACU) serves member-owners, who reside, work, worship, attend school or operate a business in one of the six counties it serves in North Carolina or who are employed by one of its many employer companies. These six counties are Davie, Forsyth, Guilford, Iredell, Mecklenburg and Rockingham.

Piedmont Advantage Credit Union Scholarship Fund

For high school seniors and beyond, pursuing all kinds of academic dreams.

While there is no set limit on the number of scholarships awarded, we average six $1,000 scholarships yearly.

This scholarship isn’t just for high school seniors. It’s for any PACU member ready to take the next step with continuing their education. 

The Altrusa Club of Dayton Kay Webster Scholarship honors the late Kay Webster, a passionate advocate for children's literacy and former president of the Altrusa Club. Established in her memory, this scholarship supports graduating seniors from Montgomery or Greene County, Ohio, who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need, particularly those majoring in education or related fields. With a legacy of promoting literacy, the scholarship continues Kay's mission to impact the lives of children positively.

The Teaching Credential Scholarship, administered by 10,000 Degrees, offers two opportunities for aspiring educators. The Marin Retired Teachers Association Scholarship supports Marin County high school graduates pursuing fifth-year teaching credentials or master's degrees in education. Meanwhile, the Building Better Teachers Scholarship aids early care and education teachers in advancing their studies towards a bachelor's or master's degree. Both scholarships encourage applicants to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and are aimed at fostering the next generation of educators.

Community Foundation for Mason County, MI

At the Community Foundation for Mason County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues. As a leader in community philanthropy, building a vibrant community with great opportunities for all, we are focused on advancing education, increasing recreation opportunities, and community and economic development.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Noble Arent Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of the Ludington Area School District, which established the Noble Arent Memorial Scholarship Fund of the Community Foundation for Mason County.

This fund shall provide scholarships to a graduating Ludington High School senior member of the National Honor Society. This student must pursue a degree in the Field of Education at any four-year accredited college or university.

Charlie Adams Endowed Scholarship

First awarded in 2010, this scholarship honors the late former Executive Director of the Association, Charlie Adams, who was the fifth Executive Director of the NCHSAA and served from 1984 until 2010. The female award is given in honor of his daughter, Michelle, who participated in cross country at Chapel Hill on the 1984 State Championship team. The male award is given in memory of his son, C. Scott Adams, who was the first wrestler at Chapel Hill to compete in the State Wrestling Championships.

Funding sources for this scholarship include donations from individuals and athletic organizations (private donations) and interest earnings. This scholarship is awarded to one female, senior varsity cross-country athlete and one male, senior varsity wrestler at an NCHSAA member high school. Each recipient currently receives a one-time scholarship towards continuing their education.

Award presentation: NCHSAA Annual Awards Celebration, Piedmont Hall/Greensboro; June 2026 (date TBD)

Awards

• 4, $2500

Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship

The Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship was created in honor of Jerry McGee for his 24+ years of service as executive director of the North Carolina Athletic Directors' Association (NCADA). This award is unique in that it honors student-athletes who have distinguished themselves by overcoming adversity and returning to excel beyond expectations in their respective scholastic athletic sport(s).

Recipients of the Jerry McGee Endowed Scholarship will be eligible to apply for the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Scholarship (NIAAA) provided each meets the criteria set forth by the NIAAA. NIAAA scholarship applications are due by May 1 to the NIAAA.

Awards

• 2, $3000

Wilburn Clary Medal

The Clary Medal, made possible through the generosity of the Eddie and Jo Allison Smith Family Foundation, recognizes outstanding high school student-athletes annually in memory of Wilburn C. Clary.

Consideration given to the following criteria:

• Applicant must demonstrate excellence in athletic participation through awards, honors, and special recognitions.
• Applicant must demonstrate success in other, non-sport, extra-curricular activities.
• Applicant must demonstrate active involvement within their community through volunteer service programs, scouts, or other similar activities.
• Applicant must demonstrate a desire to excel in all areas of life - athletics, education, sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, honesty and integrity.

Awards

• 2, $3000

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Kermit Edney Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is for deserving students with financial need who are pursuing their college education. Recipients must show commitment to the pursuit of their college degree.

The Austrian-Hungarian Singing – Sick Benefit Society Donau, Inc. Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain, supports graduating high school seniors pursuing higher education, particularly in fields related to Austrian or German culture. Preference is given to students of Austrian, German, or Swiss-German descent or members of the Austrian-Hungarian Club. This initiative not only aids academic pursuits but also promotes cultural heritage preservation.