Best Financial Assistance Grants in Montana

The Frank L. Eckard Scholarship at Montana State University is designed for students pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering. To qualify, applicants must be juniors with a minimum GPA of 3.25. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to fostering educational opportunities that empower students to excel in their academic and professional pursuits, significantly impacting their communities.

The Fred and Virginia Traeger Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Agricultural Business. This scholarship prioritizes graduates from Montana high schools, especially those from Roosevelt and Eastern Montana. With a minimum GPA of 3.0 required, it aims to empower students who show potential in agricultural economics and management. By providing financial assistance, this scholarship facilitates access to quality education, fostering growth in the agricultural sector and local communities.

The Frederick Brian Walter Civil Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. This scholarship aims to assist students demonstrating financial need, contributing to the university's commitment to providing transformative education. MSU, established in 1893, continues to offer various scholarships, enhancing access to higher education for incoming students and fostering community development through engineering education.

The Carlson Music Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in music. To qualify, applicants must have completed the School of Music scholarship audition and be enrolled in applicable programs. This scholarship aims to foster talent in the arts, particularly for those participating in music ensembles. MSU, a historic institution established in 1893, emphasizes transformative education and outreach, enhancing community access to higher education.

The Friends of Classic Open Golf Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to providing access to transformative education and fostering student success. It aims to assist incoming students in their academic journey, promoting excellence in business education and community engagement.

The Frank Gruden of Roundup Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Nursing or Education. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be in their junior or senior year. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals and contribute positively to their communities. With limited availability, it provides essential financial assistance to deserving candidates, facilitating access to quality higher education.

The Frank Dreyer Scholarship at Montana State University is designed for undergraduate students pursuing degrees in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Earth Science, Ecology, Mathematical Sciences, or Physics. It reflects MSU's commitment to providing transformative educational opportunities to students. As one of the original land-grant colleges, MSU aims to enhance access to quality higher education, fostering both individual and community development through its scholarship offerings.

The Frank and Marie Elliott Homestead Nursing Scholarship at Montana State University supports nursing students who are Montana high school graduates, with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and are in their junior or senior year. This scholarship aims to promote access to quality nursing education, reflecting MSU's commitment to transforming lives through higher education. With limited availability, it encourages incoming students to apply and advance their careers in healthcare.

The Frank and Leona Ceserani Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in engineering. Established in 1893, MSU is committed to transforming lives through education and research. This scholarship aims to assist incoming students and enhance their academic journey in the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering, ensuring they have access to essential resources for success.

The Gallatin Beef Producers Association Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Agriculture. Preference is given to recipients with family ties to the Gallatin Beef Producers organization or those who are graduates from specific counties in Montana. This scholarship aims to empower students within the agricultural field by providing financial assistance to those in need.

The Research Start-Up Grants for New Science Faculty program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, provides financial support to help new faculty positions in natural sciences at private colleges in five states. Grants match institutional funds 1:1, up to $36,000, to assist with start-up costs, including cash and in-kind support, ensuring institutions can attract qualified candidates while enhancing research capabilities.

The Raftelis Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a consulting career in water utilities. With a value of $5,000, this scholarship aims to foster relationships with diverse, promising students who demonstrate leadership and strong academic performance. Applicants from various academic backgrounds, including business and finance, are encouraged to apply, emphasizing initiative and a desire to contribute positively to the community.

The Wold Foundation Grant, established in 1985, aims to support charitable, scientific, literary, and educational projects primarily benefiting Wyoming citizens and youth. It prioritizes initiatives in education, human services, cultural activities, healthcare, and scientific endeavors that promote conservation and outdoor recreation. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) classified and operate in the U.S. The foundation does not fund individuals or projects that discriminate based on sex, age, or religion.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

Social Justice Fund Northwest- Sponsorship

At Social Justice Fund Northwest (SJF), we utilize sponsorships as a way of building bridges. Our sponsorships are only available to recent and current SJF grantees (within the past two years) in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and/or Wyoming. We hope that organizations utilize this resource to fund their most ambitious, innovative projects that are often not supported by other funders.

Overview

Grant Awards: One-year sponsorship of $1,000

Focus:

• Ambitious and innovative projects that are often not supported by other funders in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and/or Wyoming.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The Alvah H. and Wyline P. Chapman Foundation offers grants to support charitable, educational, and community-focused initiatives, primarily in Florida and Georgia. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that address children's welfare, education, multicultural understanding, substance abuse prevention, and homelessness. Grants typically do not exceed $15,000, and proposals must be endorsed by a Foundation Director. Interested parties should submit a Letter of Inquiry for consideration.

The Emerging Justice Fund Grant, offered by Social Justice Fund Northwest, aims to support grassroots organizing in communities affected by systemic injustices. With a funding cycle starting in February, the grant prioritizes organizations led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Eligible groups can apply for a one-year grant of $10,000, with a final deadline of September 12th. This initiative emphasizes unrestricted funding to empower marginalized communities and foster long-term social justice solutions.

Community Development Block Grant Planning 

Description/Guidelines

CDBG Planning Grants are available to eligible counties, cities and towns. Local governments may apply on behalf of special purpose districts, such as water or sewer districts; unincorporated areas; public school districts; or nonprofit or for profit organizations, such as a human resource development council, an economic development agency, an area agency on aging, a local domestic violence shelter, a Boys and Girls Club, local food bank, hospital, nursing home, etc. Counties may also apply for Planning grants on behalf of tribal utility authorities or in those cases where tribal members would be assisted like any other county residents.

Local governments may apply for one CDBG Planning Grant per funding cycle. Local governments with an open CDBG Planning Grant from a previous funding cycle are ineligible to apply for an additional Planning Grant until their current planning project is completed and closed out, except in special circumstances, with prior approval of Commerce. 

Consolidated local governments, such as Butte-Silver Bow and Anaconda-Deer Lodge, may apply for two Planning Grants per funding cycle and may have up to two Planning Grants open at any given time. 

The NWS Student Travel Award, offered by the American Physical Society, provides financial support of up to $400 for undergraduate students to attend the Annual Meeting. This initiative aims to enhance participation among students, especially those without other funding sources, who are presenting research. Established in 1998, the Northwest Section of APS fosters collaboration among physicists in the Pacific Northwest, promoting educational and research opportunities within the community.

The Dale Jr. Foundation, founded by NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., has raised over $8 million since 2007 to support various charities focusing on youth and underprivileged communities. The foundation emphasizes empowerment, education, wellness, hunger relief, and hope, aiming to provide resources that enhance confidence and opportunities for children facing hardships. Through fundraising efforts and partnerships with organizations like Make-A-Wish, the foundation strives to positively impact lives and foster a sense of normalcy among children in need.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

Humanities Montana's Community Project Grants support nonprofit organizations and public institutions across the state, fostering public humanities programs that engage Montanans in meaningful discussions about the human condition. These grants aim to strengthen cooperative relationships among diverse communities and cultural organizations, enriching civic discourse. Projects can range from film screenings to cultural festivals, all designed to inspire timely conversations and reflect local community needs.

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc. offers the WPS Community Support Grants & Sponsorships, emphasizing a culture of giving and community involvement. The program supports 501(c)3 organizations that address healthcare challenges and focus on children, disabled individuals, and STEM education. Through financial support and volunteerism, West aims to foster healthier communities where its employees live and work, reinforcing its commitment to philanthropy and social responsibility.

The Charles M. Bair Family Trust Grant supports nonprofit organizations and government entities in Montana, particularly in Meagher, Wheatland, and Yellowstone counties. Established in memory of Alberta M. Bair, the trust continues the family's philanthropic legacy by awarding grants based on a thorough review process by a Board of Advisors. Applications are accepted annually, with a deadline of March 1, ensuring that the trust's impact on the community remains significant and aligned with its founding values.

The NWS Student Travel Grants, offered by the Northwest Scientific Association, provide financial assistance up to $1,000 for students to attend and present at the 2025 NWSA Annual Meeting in Eugene, OR, on March 18-19. Eligible applicants must be current NWSA student members and engaged in research relevant to the Northwest. The funding covers registration, travel, accommodation, and presentation costs, facilitating scholarly exchange and professional development for students in the region.

Community Action Fund

A grant for Indigenous frontline organizations, groups, and individuals for direct action initiatives.

The Community Action Fund (CAF) grants support non-violent direct actions and organizing efforts that are often urgent and time sensitive. CAF prioritizes frontline, grassroots and community-based efforts that defend Indigenous peoples rights, communities and Nations.

Community Action Fund Intent

This grant supports Indigenous frontline, grassroots, community-based groups and organizations, Tribes, communities and villages, and individuals leading non-violent direct action or movement-building work in their effort to DEFEND Indigenous People’s rights, and protect their land, air, water, and natural resources.