Best Grants for Charities in Montana

The Fence Authority Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fields that enhance community beautification, such as architecture, civil engineering, and environmental sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and involved in community service. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute positively to society while furthering their education in impactful disciplines.

The AJ Brahmstadt Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students in the College of Letters and Science with a minimum GPA of 3.25. It favors Economics majors and Oregon residents, honoring AJ Brahmstadt’s heritage. This scholarship aims to empower strong academic achievers to further their education and prepare for impactful careers, reflecting MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement while enhancing opportunities for graduates to contribute meaningfully to society.

STOP Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

MBCC is soliciting proposals for STOP (Services-Training-Officers-Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) to be funded by the Office on Violence Against Women. The Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) is a component of the United States Department of Justice (DOJ). Created in 1995, OVW implements the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation and provides national leadership on issues of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. Since its inception, OVW has supported a multifaceted approach to responding to these crimes through implementation of grant programs authorized by VAWA. By forging state, local and tribal partnerships among police, prosecutors, judges, victim advocates, health care providers, faith leaders, organizations that serve culturally specific and underserved communities, and others, OVW grants help provide victims, across their life span, with the protection and services they need to pursue safe and healthy lives, while improving communities’ capacity to provide justice for victims and hold offenders accountable.

The application process is competitive. Previous funding does not guarantee an award during this funding cycle. Approximately $800,000 will be available during the project period, depending upon availability of federal funds. Because federal funds are not always available immediately following the award date, applicants should prepare for this contingency.

Matching contributions of 25% (cash or in-kind) of the total cost of the STOP VAWA project (federal funds plus local match) are required and must be derived from non-federal sources. All funds designated as match are restricted to the same uses as the federal funds and must be expended within the grant period. Federally Recognized Tribes and victim services providers are not required to provide match.

ATTENTION: This funding opportunity is for grant funding that the Montana Board of Crime Control (MBCC) administers that originates from the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ). To continue program activities designed to maintain public safety services, MBCC has determined that it will proceed with this funding opportunity. MBCC anticipates that new grant guidance may be issued in 2026 to reflect USDOJ’s revised policies and priorities. New USDOJ guidance could change the terms and conditions and the availability of funding for any grants that are executed from this funding opportunity. MBCC will share new grant conditions, guidance, and requirements with all grantees as they become available. In some instances, executed grant awards may be revised or cancelled.

The Dick Anderson Construction Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing degrees in Civil Engineering or Construction Engineering Technology. This scholarship emphasizes student success and community engagement, aligning with MSU's mission to foster innovation and prepare graduates for meaningful contributions. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship may be renewable for past recipients who meet all qualifications and reapply annually.

Montana Department of Commerce

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. The vision of Commerce is to be the recognized leader in realizing Montana’s full potential by efficiently growing sustainable economies and vibrant communities.

Opportunities in Rural Economies

The purpose of the Opportunities in Rural Economies is to assist in economic development for Montana that will: create good-paying jobs for Montana residents, promote long-term, stable economic growth in Montana, retain or expand existing businesses, provide a better life for future generations through greater economic growth and prosperity in Montana, and encourage workforce development.

Economic Development Organization Capacity Building Grant

The Opportunities in Rural Economies Economic Development Organization Capacity Building Grant supports EDOs in strengthening their ability to provide outreach to their communities for economic development.

Eligible uses of grant funds may include, but are not limited to, technology investments, including software and hardware upgrades, workflow optimization, staff training, contracted services, marketing to increase program or organization visibility, community engagement efforts and partnership development with local lenders, workforce entities or education providers and other capacity-building uses that align with programmatic strategy. ORE EDO CBGP investments aim to ensure Enrolled EDOs have the resources to act as effective intermediaries between Eligible Businesses and the ORE LPP. Funding is not intended to support routine operations but to help Enrolled EDOs strategically increase their impact within Rural Montana.

The Carol S. Nelson Memorial scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Eligible applicants must be juniors or seniors with a clear goal of teaching at the fifth or sixth grade level. This scholarship exemplifies MSU's commitment to fostering educational opportunities that enhance community engagement and support student success. Award amounts vary, reflecting the university's dedication to invest in future educators who will impact Montana's educational landscape.

The Bryan Coleridge McDougall Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students, with a preference for Troy, Montana high school graduates. This scholarship prioritizes students in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering and those from the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering innovation in its diverse student body.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The A. K. Erhardt Education Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, aims to support students in the Department of Education who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to upperclassmen and Montana high school graduates. This scholarship fosters the growth of future educators by providing essential financial assistance, enabling students to pursue impactful careers in teaching and educational leadership.

The College of Nursing Memorial Program Scholarship at Montana State University supports nursing students through a consolidated fund that includes various memorial scholarships. This initiative aims to honor the legacy of past contributors while providing financial assistance to future nursing professionals. Applicants are required to complete the Activities and Involvement sections of the General Application. Award amounts vary, making this scholarship a vital resource for those pursuing a nursing degree.

The D. P. Fabrick Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time students in the College of Agriculture who demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to Teton County residents and those from farm or ranch families pursuing agricultural careers. This scholarship aligns with MSU's mission to foster education and community engagement, aiming to empower students to make meaningful contributions to society while addressing the needs of Montana's economy.

The Dan and Colleen Roark Nursing Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana high school graduates pursuing a degree in nursing. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25. This scholarship highlights MSU's commitment to nurturing future healthcare professionals while enhancing the quality of life in Montana through education and community service. Award amounts may vary based on funding availability.

The Anna and Frank Gruden Scholarship at Montana State University offers financial assistance to high school graduates from Montana or Wyoming with financial need. Eligible students must pursue a degree in nursing or education at the junior or senior level and maintain a GPA of at least 3.0. Preference is given to those studying teaching fields like Biology and Mathematics. This scholarship supports the university's mission to enhance educational opportunities and community engagement.

The Montana Snowmobile Program Grant supports snowmobile clubs in maintaining safe trails and promoting winter recreation. This initiative funds trail grooming, equipment purchases, and safety education, benefiting over 4,000 miles of trails managed by Montana State Parks. Grants, typically under $20,000, aim to enhance trail safety and accessibility for motorized enthusiasts. Clubs must coordinate with land management agencies for proposals, ensuring sustainable trail use and community engagement in snowmobiling activities.

The Angus and Anne McMillan Family Agriculture Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, provides financial assistance to students pursuing degrees in agriculture. Established to support the next generation of agricultural leaders, this scholarship varies in award amounts and reflects MSU's commitment to enhancing community engagement and economic development in Montana. With hands-on learning opportunities, MSU prepares graduates to tackle real-world challenges in agriculture and beyond.

The Dr. Rosemary Newman Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Food and Nutrition, Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, or Dietetic Systems Leadership. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities in health and human development, encouraging students to contribute to community health and well-being. Award amounts vary, reflecting the university's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting student success in vital fields that address pressing societal needs.

The Anna Pearl Sherrick Nursing Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree from the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing. This scholarship emphasizes student involvement and provides varying award amounts. MSU, a leading research institution in Montana, is dedicated to fostering innovation and community engagement while preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society. Eligible applicants must complete specific sections of the General Application to be considered for this scholarship.

The College of Nursing Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a nursing degree from the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing. Applicants must complete the General Application's Activities and Involvement sections. Award amounts vary, highlighting MSU's commitment to fostering education and community engagement while preparing graduates for impactful careers in healthcare.

The Ingrid and Steffen Doerstling Excellence Scholarship at Montana State University supports third- and fourth-year Environmental Design students with a minimum 3.5 Architecture Studio GPA. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for students while promoting excellence in architectural studies. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to fostering academic achievement and innovation in the field of design. As a leading research institution, MSU prioritizes student success and community engagement.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA) on Aug. 4, 2026, seeking to fund high-impact, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. This preannouncement provides potential applicants additional time to identify collaborators; obtain patient and stakeholder input on potential studies; and develop responsive, high-quality applications. 

Patient-centered CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences. 

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The Hoback Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time junior and senior nursing students who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA. MSU, a leading public research institution, is dedicated to education, research, and community engagement. The scholarship aims to foster innovation and support students in their academic and professional pursuits, preparing them to contribute positively to society through healthcare.

The Arthur H. and Margaret C. Post Scholarship at Montana State University supports high school graduates pursuing degrees in Land Resources and Environmental Sciences or Plant Sciences and Plant Pathology. Eligible students must be enrolled at least half-time in relevant agriculture or environmental science programs. This scholarship aims to prepare graduates for impactful careers in environmental stewardship and agricultural research, fostering innovation and enhancing the quality of life in Montana.

The Arthur B. and Louise Eager Ward Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports Montana high school graduates pursuing undergraduate studies in agriculture or environmental sciences. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of education in advancing knowledge and careers in environmental stewardship and agricultural sciences. By encouraging eligible students enrolled at least half-time, the scholarship aims to foster a new generation of leaders dedicated to improving Montana's economy and quality of life through research and community engagement.

The Holly Nickels Memorial Dietetics Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports high school graduates in Montana pursuing degrees in Food and Nutrition (Dietetics Option), the Montana Dietetics Internship, or Dietetics Systems Leadership. This scholarship aims to promote education and leadership in the field of dietetics, with award amounts varying based on eligibility. Montana State University is dedicated to advancing educational opportunities and fostering student success within the state.

The Bruce Parker Family Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports high school graduates from Montana seeking a degree or certificate at Gallatin College. This scholarship aims to assist those demonstrating financial need, making higher education more accessible. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to enhancing workforce development and community engagement. As Montana’s premier land-grant institution, MSU prioritizes student success and fosters innovation to strengthen the state’s economy and quality of life.