Best Grants for Charities in Montana

Montana Department of Commerce

Mission

The Department of Commerce effectively and efficiently delivers programs and resources through technical assistance, funding/investments, training/consulting, promotion, research, reporting and outreach to provide affordable housing and create sustainable business and economic growth to enhance community vitality to benefit the citizens of Montana.

Community Development Block Grant Housing

Montana's CDBG Housing grants help local governments fund primarily the rehabilitation of single-family or multi-family housing projects that benefit low- to moderate-income Montanans, i.e., households earning less than 80% of the area median income. CDBG offers two distinct types of housing grants:

• The competitive CDBG Affordable Housing Development and Rehabilitation Grant, for which applications are accepted every fall, and
• The CDBG Housing Stabilization Program, for which applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

CDBG Affordable Housing Development and Rehabilitation Grant

This grant is intended primarily for the rehabilitation of affordable housing projects. Typically, these housing projects are multi-family rental projects in which CDBG fills a funding gap.

The cities of Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, and Missoula are entitlement communities and are not eligible for state CDBG funds, as they receive a CDBG allocation directly from HUD.

The Doug Alexander Sunrise Rotary Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents who are junior or senior students in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship or the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and show involvement in campus or community activities. This scholarship aims to foster educational advancement and community engagement, thereby strengthening Montana's workforce.

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Recruitment Scholarship at Montana State University supports students majoring in Computer, Electrical, or General Engineering. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 to qualify. This scholarship aims to encourage academic excellence and innovation in engineering fields while addressing the needs of Montana and beyond. MSU, the state's largest public research university, is committed to fostering student success and community engagement.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The Conservation District Pollinator Grants aim to enhance pollinator habitats in Montana, offering funding between $5,000 and $15,000 for eligible projects. These grants prioritize initiatives that include monitoring plans and community engagement strategies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate conservation benefits and have a solid public outreach plan. The program encourages innovative approaches to educate the public about pollinators' vital role in ecosystems and supports projects that actively involve local communities.

Montana Department of Commerce

Mission

The Department of Commerce effectively and efficiently delivers programs and resources through technical assistance, funding/investments, training/consulting, promotion, research, reporting and outreach to provide affordable housing and create sustainable business and economic growth to enhance community vitality to benefit the citizens of Montana.

HOME Investment Partnerships Program

Created under Title II of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, the HOME Investment Partnerships Program is the largest federal block grant that is designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. Montana’s HOME funds are allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The Montana Department of Commerce administers the program and grants these funds to local governments, nonprofit organizations and private developers to develop and preserve affordable housing for or offer homebuyer assistance to income-eligible individuals and families. An individual may not apply directly to the HOME Program.

The HOME Program does the following:

• Expands the supply of affordable housing for Montanans with low- and very low-incomes
• Improves the means of state and local governments to implement strategies to achieve adequate supplies of decent, affordable housing
• Provides both financial and technical assistance to participants to develop model programs for affordable housing

Housing Development Projects

Commerce accepts applications for housing development annually. Funds are awarded to construct, acquire and/or rehabilitate rental properties, or develop new units for homeownership. Awards are to fill financing gaps and may not exceed HUD-determined subsidy limits. Additionally, 5% of HOME investments must be matched.

The Ardy SixKiller Clarke Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing careers in education. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in the Teacher Education Program, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75, and provide proof of American Indian heritage. This need-sensitive award aims to assist future educators dedicated to serving their communities, while also reinforcing MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement.

The Crossman-Whitney-Griffin Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports third- and fourth-year students pursuing a degree in Environmental Design. This scholarship rewards students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, as indicated by their cumulative GPA. Award amounts may vary, reflecting the commitment of MSU to foster innovation and excellence in education. As a leading public research university, MSU emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

The Crowley Family Biochemistry Scholarship at Montana State University supports junior and senior students pursuing degrees in Biochemistry, with preference for those in the Honors College. This scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and community engagement, reflecting MSU's commitment to student success and research that enhances Montana's quality of life. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship falls under the Chemistry and Biochemistry scopes, promoting innovation and opportunity for future leaders.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The D.A. Davidson Silver Fund Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to enhancing student success through financial assistance, enabling graduates to thrive in their chosen fields. Established in 1893, MSU is dedicated to research and service, providing accessible education that addresses the needs of Montana and beyond. Award amounts vary, reflecting the diverse opportunities available for aspiring business leaders.

The WISEWOMAN Program, funded by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, aims to conduct cardiovascular risk assessments for low-income women aged 35-64 who are uninsured or underinsured. This initiative addresses social determinants of health (SDOH) and includes tracking referrals and participation in Healthy Behavior Support Services. It is designed to improve women's health outcomes by ensuring access to necessary health programs and services.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

The James and Florence Keith Alpha Zeta Scholarship at Montana State University supports College of Agriculture students who are active members of the Alpha Zeta Society. Preference is given to undergraduates with two years remaining in their program, and those pursuing Veterinary Medicine. This scholarship aims to promote student success and contribute to the agricultural sector, with award amounts varying based on funding availability.

The Doris Fogler Braughton Fine Arts Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students enrolled in the School of Art who attend at least half-time. This scholarship aims to enhance the educational experience of aspiring artists by providing financial assistance, thereby fostering creativity and innovation in the arts. MSU, a leading public research university, is committed to student success and community engagement, preparing graduates for impactful contributions to society.

The Donald W. Bullock Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports Montana residents pursuing degrees at the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. With a commitment to student success and community engagement, MSU provides valuable educational opportunities. Award amounts for this scholarship vary, aligning with the university's mission to foster innovation and prepare graduates for meaningful contributions to society. This scholarship plays a crucial role in enhancing access to quality education for local students.

The CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

The Christie Johnson Accounting Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing an Accounting Option degree within the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities in accounting, fostering academic excellence and real-world problem-solving skills. With varying award amounts, it reflects MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

Background

The Business Acceleration and Marketing program (BAM) is funded through the Montana Growth Through Agriculture program (GTA). GTA was created by the 1987 Legislature and is administered by the seven member Montana Agriculture Development Council, which is attached to the Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA). The legislative purpose of the program is to strengthen and diversify Montana's agricultural industry through loans and grants to assist the development of innovative agricultural business organizational improvements and the commercialization and marketing of new agricultural products in order to keep pace with a transforming agricultural industry and to create new jobs and expand small business opportunities. Funds are available now and are awarded on a quarterly basis, in the order the application is received, until funds are expended.

These funds are to:

• Help businesses access and develop new and existing markets.
• Support businesses in overcoming market barriers
• Expand businesses' digital/web offerings
• Fund projects still in early expansionary phase of development
• Support startup businesses in minimizing time to profitability.
• Offer expanding businesses the ability to establish groundwork for capital expenditure.
• Accelerate new, innovative products up to commercialization.

The Angus and Anne McMillan Family EHHD Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Home Economics-related fields such as Community Health, Early Childhood Education, and Family and Consumer Sciences. This scholarship aims to enhance student success and community engagement while addressing the needs of Montana. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering innovation in health and human development.

The Western SARE Farmer/Rancher Grants support agricultural producers in developing innovative, sustainable practices through research and outreach. Eligible applicants include farmers or ranchers who collaborate with technical advisors to implement projects focused on addressing specific agricultural needs. Grants can provide funding up to $25,000 for 1-2 producers and up to $29,900 for larger collaborations. The program aims to enhance profitability, environmental quality, and community well-being while sharing knowledge among producers.

The Pacific Branch John Henry Comstock Award honors an exemplary graduate student in entomology within the Pacific Branch. This award aims to foster enthusiasm for entomology at the graduate level and encourage participation in the Pacific Branch and ESA Annual Meetings. The winner will present at the Pacific Branch Meeting and receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate, covering airfare, hotel, registration, and per diem.

Montana Department of Commerce

Mission

The Department of Commerce effectively and efficiently delivers programs and resources through technical assistance, funding/investments, training/consulting, promotion, research, reporting and outreach to provide affordable housing and create sustainable business and economic growth to enhance community vitality to benefit the citizens of Montana.

Housing Trust Fund Program

Established under Title I of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, the HTF Program is a federal block grant designed to create affordable housing for extremely low-income households. Montana’s HTF funds are allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The Montana Department of Commerce administers the program and grants these funds to entities for the development and preservation of affordable housing. The HTF complements existing federal, state and local efforts to increase the supply of decent, safe and sanitary affordable housing for extremely low income families, including households with special needs, households experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness.

The Crawford Wildlife Habitat Business & Entrepreneurship Undergraduate Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business & Entrepreneurship with a focus on wildlife habitat. This scholarship emphasizes hands-on learning and aims to cultivate leaders equipped to enhance Montana's economy and community well-being. Award amounts are variable, reflecting the scholarship's commitment to fostering student success and addressing environmental concerns.

The NLSOT Postdoctoral Travel Award aims to support postdoctoral researchers from the Northland SOT region by covering travel costs to the national SOT Annual Meeting. This initiative encourages their participation in chapter activities, fostering professional development and collaboration. Eligible expenses include meeting registration, airfare, hotel accommodations, and meals, making it a valuable opportunity for emerging scientists to engage with the broader toxicology community.