Best Grants for Charities in Montana

The Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.

The Building Capacity Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the financial and operational capabilities of dioceses. This initiative focuses on funding projects that promote efficiency, financial stability, and effective fiscal management, ultimately fostering a self-sustaining community. Eligible programs include fundraising development initiatives and operational assessments, ensuring resources are utilized efficiently while supporting professional development for church leadership. This grant empowers dioceses to strengthen their foundations for future growth.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The Gary Williams Family Science Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing STEM degrees. This scholarship is available for residents of Southwest Montana, with a preference for graduates from high schools in Beaverhead County. MSU, founded in 1893, is committed to transforming lives and communities through education and research. With limited awards for incoming students, this scholarship aims to encourage the next generation of scientists in a nurturing academic environment.

The Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County offers the Signature Community Impact Grant, supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Forsyth, Angela, Ingomar, and Rosebud. Grants, up to $10,000, require significant community support and partnerships, with a focus on sustainability and addressing local needs. The granting process is competitive, emphasizing collaborations and in-kind contributions, and applicants must be a qualified non-profit or government entity.

The Peter E. Palmquist Memorial Fund Grant provides vital support for research into under-researched women photographers and Western American photographers from the Great Depression era. Open to both individual researchers and nonprofit institutions, this grant emphasizes the importance of quality proposals and the ability to execute projects efficiently. Recipients will contribute their findings to the Humboldt Area Foundation, thus enriching the Peter Palmquist Archive and promoting the legacy of photography history.

The Partners in Science Grant Program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, connects secondary school science teachers with research mentors to enhance their teaching and research skills. This innovative initiative offers renewable three-year grants to universities, supporting partnerships that foster professional growth through hands-on research experiences. Teachers engage in two annual conferences, allowing them to share findings and best practices, ultimately enriching the educational landscape and improving student engagement in scientific inquiry.

The Forestry Division's Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant, administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, provides essential funding to rural fire departments. This program supports training, equipping, and organizing efforts to enhance fire response capabilities in rural communities. By offering cost-share grants, the initiative aims to strengthen local fire departments, ensuring they are well-prepared to protect lives and property from wildfires and other emergencies. Participation is encouraged, benefiting all counties in Montana.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowships program, managed by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the training of new graduate students in food and agricultural sciences. It provides essential funding for master's, DVM, and doctoral students, focusing on developing the next generation of experts to address critical needs in agricultural sciences. This initiative supports U.S. citizens and residents in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the USDA's mission.

The Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

Montana State University was founded February 16, 1893, as one of the nation's original land-grant colleges authorized by the landmark Morrill Act of 1862. Since then, MSU has been dedicated to the mission of education, research and outreach, providing access to life-changing higher education that has the potential to transform lives and communities.

Student Teaching FALL Semester Scholarship

Required Qualifications:

• Pursuing a degree in the Teacher Education Program K-12
• Have secured a student teaching position and will be doing their student teaching for the Fall semester

Scopes: Education

The Wilburforce Foundation Conservation Grants aim to enhance the conservation of vital lands, waters, and wildlife in Western North America. By 2025, their vision is to ensure native wildlife thrives across connected landscapes. The foundation supports organizations dedicated to strategic conservation efforts, focusing on habitat security and wildlife linkages. Grants are available to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities, fostering initiatives that protect critical wildlife habitats and promote ecological integrity.

The MT Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Agricultural Land Easements (ALE) supports private and tribal landowners in protecting croplands and grasslands by limiting non-agricultural land uses. Through financial assistance, NRCS helps maintain agricultural viability and environmental quality, enhancing historic preservation and wildlife habitats. The program prioritizes contiguous agricultural land and leverages local partnerships, ensuring sustainable stewardship. Applications are accepted continuously, with specific ranking dates for funding cycles.

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) administered by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) aims to enhance outdoor recreation by providing funds for the development and maintenance of recreational trails. This program supports various trail uses, including hiking, biking, and motorized activities. Eligible applicants include government agencies and private organizations. RTP grants cover up to 80% of project costs, ensuring that Montana's trails remain accessible and well-maintained for future generations.

The Montana Recreational Trails Grant Program, managed by FWP, supports the development and maintenance of recreational trails across the state. Funded through the Federal Highway Trust Fund, it aims to enhance outdoor recreational opportunities. Eligible projects include trail maintenance, construction of new trails, and the development of facilities. This program not only promotes accessibility but also fosters environmental education and safety in outdoor activities, benefiting both residents and visitors.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

The Dr. Frank N. Nelson Scholarship at Montana State University supports students enrolled in the Pre-Veterinary Program or those planning to attend an accredited School of Veterinary Medicine. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.2 and demonstrate a commitment to the veterinary profession in Montana. This scholarship aims to foster future veterinarians who will contribute positively to the agricultural and health sectors in the state.

The Montana Shooting Range Grant Program, administered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks since 1989, provides funding for the establishment and enhancement of shooting ranges across Montana. Grants are available to private clubs, organizations, local governments, and schools, supporting projects that improve shooting facilities or cover reasonable application expenses. This initiative aims to promote safe and accessible shooting sports in the state, funded through state hunting license sales.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The International Experience Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Education, Health, and Human Development. It encourages participation in MSU or EHHD Study Abroad Programs, allowing for international travel during fall, spring, or summer semesters. This scholarship aims to enhance educational experiences and cultural understanding, providing critical financial assistance to incoming students. By fostering global connections, MSU empowers students to transform their lives and communities through enriched educational opportunities.

The Montana Trail Stewardship Grant Program, managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, allocates funds to enhance the state's outdoor recreation infrastructure. Established in 2019, it utilizes vehicle registration fees and marijuana tax revenue to support projects such as trail construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance. With approximately $3.6 million awarded to 104 projects, this initiative aims to improve access and preserve Montana's natural resources for future generations.

The Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County Grant supports nonprofit projects enhancing community welfare in Forsyth, Angela, Ingomar, and Rosebud. It prioritizes areas like youth education, healthcare, and emergency services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities. Projects must demonstrate local support and sustainability, while the foundation does not fund conferences, planning, or routine operational costs. This competitive grant aims to improve quality of life and foster community development.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Sabbatical Research and Education Grant, offered by Western SARE, enables faculty worldwide to collaborate with farmers and researchers in the Western U.S. This program focuses on conducting innovative research and educational outreach in underserved regions, with an emphasis on unexplored topics. Grants up to $75,000 are available for projects spanning one year, promoting agricultural sustainability and community involvement.

Montana Board of Crime Control 

Montana Board of Crime Control (MBCC) was created in 1968 as a planning and research agency under the authority of 2-15-2006, MCA whose goal was, and still is to promote public safety. The MBCC is a 18-member quasi-judicial board appointed by the Governor. MBCC provides financial support, technical assistance, and supportive services to state and local criminal justice agencies. The board provides funding to local, regional, and statewide projects with the central goal of making Montana a safer state.

Title II Juvenile Justice Formula Grants

Description

The Montana Board of Crime Control (MBCC) is soliciting proposals for Title II Juvenile Justice programs to be funded by U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP). The Title II Juvenile Justice Formula Grants program provides funding to support state and local efforts to plan, establish, operate, coordinate, and evaluate policies and projects, for the development of more effective education, training, research, prevention, diversion, treatment, and rehabilitation programs, as well as juvenile justice system improvement efforts.

The application process is competitive. Previous funding does not guarantee an award during this funding cycle.