Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Montana

The Army ROTC Scholarship at Montana State University offers vital financial assistance to students enrolled as Army ROTC cadets. This scholarship aims to alleviate educational expenses, enabling cadets to focus on their training and preparation for future military leadership roles. MSU, known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, supports this initiative to foster capable leaders who will contribute positively to society.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

At the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), we are dedicated to our mission of serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. As the largest executive branch agency in the state, our broad reach allows us to provide essential, community-based support where and when it matters most. Our DPHHS team is passionate about improving our clients’ lives and helping them build a more secure and independent future.

Mini Grants: Supporting Projects for Older Adults

The Annual Governor’s Conference on Aging, sponsored by the Governor's Advisory Council on Aging (GAC), supports rural communities with populations fewer than 10,000 through a mini-grant program. Designed to aid communities with limited resources in meeting the needs of older adults, these grants range from $200 to $1,000. They assist in various capacities, such as providing training materials, health equipment, kitchen supplies for meal preparation, and development of senior support services.

Funding for these mini-grants is garnered through sponsorships and a silent auction held during the annual conference. Projects completed with grant funds must be documented with photos and financial records, and a report to the GAC is required by year-end.

Applicants should demonstrate collaboration with the aging network. Partnerships between the public and private sectors are encouraged.

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

The Arthur A. Klebba Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Mechanical Engineering. This scholarship aims to alleviate financial barriers for students demonstrating financial need, enabling them to advance in a high-demand field. MSU, as Montana's largest public research university, emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to fostering innovation and student success.

Montana Disaster & Emergency Services 

Montana Disaster & Emergency Services (MT DES) is the lead agency coordinating comprehensive emergency management in Montana. In collaboration with local and tribal governments we build, sustain, and improve our ability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate hazards. 

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

WHAT IS NSGP?

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) improves and increases the physical/cybersecurity and facility/target hardening of nonprofit organizations’ facilities at risk of a terrorist of other extremist attack, ultimately safeguarding the lives and property of the American people. NSGP integrates the preparedness activities of nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack with broader state and local preparedness efforts.

The NSGP provides funds to meet the following three objectives:

• Enhance equipment and conduct security-related activities to improve the security posture of nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack.

• Address and close capability gaps that are identified in individual nonprofit organization Vulnerability Assessments via funding spent on Planning, Equipment, and Training and Exercises that aim to enhance the protection of soft targets and crowded places.

• Strengthen relationships across non-profit organization, state, local, and territorial homeland security agencies for a whole community approach to preparedness.

There are two funding sources appropriated for nonprofit organizations: NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA); and NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA)

NSGP-UA funds nonprofit organizations located within designated high-risk urban areas. Under NSGP-UA, each urban area will receive an allocation for nonprofit organizations within the designated high-risk urban areas.

The Dennis Washington Leadership Graduate Scholarship, funded by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, aims to support exceptional Montana high school graduates pursuing graduate education. This scholarship targets emerging leaders who show strong academic performance and community commitment. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited U.S. institutions with a focus on impactful fields such as business and public policy. The initiative empowers students to develop essential skills for leadership roles, contributing to their communities' economic and civic vitality.

The D.A. Davidson and Company Scholarship, offered by Montana State University (MSU), supports students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. As MSU is Montana's premier land-grant institution, it emphasizes education, research, and community service. This scholarship aims to enhance student success and contribute to the local economy by preparing graduates for impactful careers. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to accessible education and community engagement.

The Allen and Georgann Reel HHD Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students in Human Development, Food and Nutrition, or Early Childhood Education. Applicants must maintain a 2.5 GPA and enroll in an approved program. This scholarship empowers students in health-related fields to advance their education and prepare for impactful careers that benefit children, families, and communities, fostering a healthier society through dedicated service.

The William B. Pratt Endowment Fund supports Montana's Traditional and Folk Arts, encouraging storytelling and cultural preservation. Grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 promote community involvement in arts and media. Applicants are urged to leverage additional funding sources, ensuring a dollar-for-dollar match. Established by William B. Pratt, the fund honors his legacy in arts and philanthropy, aiming to elevate untold stories and traditional practices in Montana.

The Akira Murakami Scholarship at Montana State University (MSU) provides essential financial support to students demonstrating financial need. Open to all academic disciplines, this scholarship aims to reduce barriers to education and promote success among MSU students. Founded in 1893, MSU is dedicated to fostering educational access and community engagement, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to contribute positively to society. This initiative underscores MSU's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Montana and beyond.

The Cynthia Hendrix Nursing Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students in the Mark and Robyn Jones College of Nursing. This scholarship is aimed at sophomore, junior, and senior students who demonstrate commitment to their nursing education. Applicants must complete specific sections of the General Application to be eligible. Award amounts vary, reflecting the scholarship's focus on enhancing nursing education and addressing community health needs.

The Hospitality Management Industry Partners Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Hospitality Management. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for those interested in the hospitality field, with award amounts varying based on need and merit. Montana State University, a leading public research institution, is committed to fostering student success and community engagement, providing resources to prepare graduates for meaningful contributions to society.

The Agriculture Heritage Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees with a focus on agriculture. This scholarship honors Montana's agricultural heritage by providing assistance to those connected to rural communities and agricultural fields. MSU, as the state's largest public research university, emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving. This initiative not only aids students in achieving their academic goals but also contributes to the future of agriculture in Montana.

The Hodgskiss Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents pursuing degrees, particularly in Agriculture and Home Economics fields. This scholarship prioritizes students with financial need, enhancing their educational opportunities. Award amounts vary, and it aims to foster innovation and community engagement by preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to society. MSU, founded in 1893, is dedicated to education and research, serving over 16,000 students with a commitment to hands-on learning and real-world problem-solving.

The Crow Native American Student Scholarship at Montana State University supports enrolled members of the Crow Tribe pursuing their degrees. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering success among Native American students. Award amounts vary, aimed at empowering students to thrive academically and contribute to their communities. As Montana's leading public research university, MSU emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement, promoting innovation and opportunity for all students.

The Donald L. Smith Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time graduate students in Geology with a minimum 3.0 GPA, particularly those engaged in field geology for their master's thesis. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to enhancing education and research within the Earth Sciences, helping students lead impactful careers that contribute to the community and advance scientific understanding.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The Houston Area Alumni Chapter Legacy Scholarship supports undergraduate students at Montana State University (MSU) who reside in the Houston metropolitan area. Preference is given to children or grandchildren of MSU alumni. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to fostering student success and community engagement, offering varying award amounts to help students achieve their educational goals while contributing to the local economy and society.

The Hollier Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing their degrees at this premier institution. With a commitment to education and research, MSU provides quality learning opportunities for over 16,000 students. The scholarship aims to foster innovation and community engagement, helping graduates contribute meaningfully to society. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's dedication to expanding opportunities for students and enhancing Montana's economy and quality of life.

The Crawford Wildlife Habitat University Studies Undergraduate Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduates with a passion for wildlife habitat. This scholarship is designed for students in University Studies, offering financial assistance based on their background, interest, or career aspirations in this field. Montana State University, founded in 1893, is known for its commitment to education and research, aiming to foster student success and community engagement through hands-on learning opportunities.

The Don Harrington Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Priority is given to MSU Rodeo Team members, followed by those from rural backgrounds or farm families, and children of Pepsi employees. This scholarship embodies MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement, contributing to the growth of individuals who will positively impact society.

The Don Morris Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate Montana residents pursuing degrees in Agriculture. Applicants must be student athletes maintaining a minimum 3.25 GPA. This scholarship aims to encourage academic excellence while promoting physical fitness and community engagement among students, contributing to the university's mission of fostering innovation and serving the state.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The IA Tech Ed Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports full-time students in their sophomore, junior, or senior years pursuing a degree in Technology Education. This scholarship reflects the university's commitment to fostering innovation and providing accessible educational opportunities in agricultural and technical education. Award amounts vary, ensuring support for students who strive to excel academically while contributing to their communities through practical learning experiences.

The Crawford Wildlife Habitat Letters & Science Undergraduate Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in the College of Letters & Science with a focus on wildlife habitat. This scholarship aims to empower students with relevant backgrounds and aspirations, providing financial assistance to enhance their educational journey. MSU, as Montana's largest public research university, is dedicated to fostering innovation and community engagement while preparing graduates to contribute positively to society.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

Native Arts and Heritage Fund

The Native Arts + Heritage Fund (NAHF) is a community-rooted award program created to support Native American and Alaska Native artists, culture bearers, and cultural practitioners across the Creative West region.

Co-designed with Native-centered artists, advisors, and community leaders, NAHF centers care, cultural continuity, and self-determination. The fund honors Indigenous ways of knowing and values process over product, relationship over compliance, and well-being as a meaningful measure of impact. In addition to unrestricted funding, selected artists will participate in a three-month virtual cohort experience designed for connection, reflection, and shared learning.

NAHF is administered by Creative West, an organization that uplifts artists and culture bearers across the Creative West region by providing funding, mentorship, and culturally rooted support.

This is not a project-based grant.

This is an invitation into funding and relationships.

Applicants must provide a letter of support from an Alaska Native or Native American community member who can speak to their relationship to community and cultural work.

Unrestricted Funds May Be Used For:

• Taking time to create, reflect, or rest
• Purchasing tools, materials, or supplies
• Covering food, rent, childcare, or transportation
• Supporting wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, or cultural
• Participating in cultural exchanges, mentorship, or learning
• Creating space to gather, teach, or share knowledge

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.