Best Grants for Preschools in Montana

The Business Professionals of America Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming freshmen from BPA chapters pursuing degrees at the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Awarded during the spring of their senior year, recipients must maintain a minimum 2.75 GPA to continue receiving the scholarship. The award, which varies in amount, cannot be transferred if the student does not return for spring or switches programs, promoting commitment to academic excellence and community contribution.

The Montana Native Plant Society's Small Grants Program offers funding up to $1500 for projects that conserve native plants in Montana. This initiative aims to enhance research, conservation, and education regarding native flora. Eligible projects may cover direct costs such as travel and supplies, while preference is given to those that generate research data, demonstrate collaboration, and include educational components. This program seeks to foster a deeper appreciation for Montana's unique plant communities.

The Horatio Alger Career and Technical Scholarship Program, funded by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, offers financial support for students pursuing career and technical education. This program is aimed at individuals who have overcome adversity and are committed to achieving success through skills-based training. Eligible applicants must have a high school diploma, demonstrate financial need, and enroll in accredited programs in high-demand fields, fostering long-term economic stability.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible states by increasing the number of university researchers and institutions conducting relevant science and engineering research. Sponsored by the Department of Defense, this program will fund multiyear awards to promote research aligned with national security needs. Applications require a multi-stage submission process, emphasizing early registration and timely proposal submissions.

The Horatio Alger Montana Undergraduate Scholarship Program, backed by the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, offers vital financial support to Montana high school seniors facing adversity. This scholarship targets students with strong character, financial need, and a commitment to higher education. Eligible recipients can utilize the award at any accredited nonprofit college in the U.S., ensuring they have access to necessary resources and mentoring to succeed in their academic pursuits and build brighter futures.

The Intermountain Community Care Foundation aims to enhance healthcare access and promote healthy behaviors among low-income and underrepresented populations in Utah and Southeast Idaho. It funds innovative projects that yield measurable results, focusing on significant and lasting changes in community health. Successful applicants must demonstrate a clear need, include a financial audit, and adhere to specific eligibility criteria. The foundation specifically excludes funding for political campaigns, operational deficits, and large equipment purchases.

The Community Pond Program Grants aim to enhance fishing opportunities in Montana communities by funding the construction or improvement of public fishing ponds. With annual funding between $100,000 and $150,000, grants typically range from $1,000 to $40,000. Projects are encouraged to enhance youth angling opportunities and improve amenities for anglers with disabilities. Eligible applicants include state agencies and community organizations, with support from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

FWP's Mission

Steward the fish, wildlife, parks, and recreational resources for the public, now and into the future.

FWP Original Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program

Program Specifics

The Off-Highway Vehicle Grant Program provides project funding with the goal of enhancing and maintaining OHV recreational opportunities for the benefit of OHV enthusiasts in Montana. It provides grant funding for safety, ethics and education, resource maintenance, protection and improvement projects.

Montana State Parks administers the OHV grant program with funds appropriated by the State Legislature, and is assisted in grant allocation by the Off-Highway Vehicle Advisory Committee (OHVAC). The OHVAC is comprised of citizens throughout Montana who have a vested interest in managing OHV opportunities as a valuable resource. 

The OHV Grant Program awards approximately $150,000 in grant funds annually. Applications for trail steward positions are limited to a $20,000 grant request. All other projects do not have a maximum award amount and will be subject to the review panel and OHVAC funding decisions. 

The Bonnie Plants 3rd Grade Cabbage Grant Program inspires young students to cultivate a love for gardening by providing free oversized cabbage plants to 3rd grade classrooms across the continental U.S. Initiated in 1996, the program encourages hands-on learning about where food comes from. Each year, students compete for a $1,000 prize awarded to the best cabbage grown, fostering excitement and education about agriculture. This initiative not only promotes environmental awareness but also engages students in practical science.

The Shigeo and Winifred Ito Scholarship Fund, established by a former recipient of the Hawai‘i Community Foundation, aims to support students from Hawaii pursuing higher education on the U.S. mainland. With awards averaging around $6,000, the fund prioritizes residents demonstrating financial need and maintaining good academic standing. The scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities and giving back to the community, ensuring that deserving students can achieve their academic goals.

The Montana Mental Health Access Fund aims to enhance access to mental health services for Indigenous communities in Montana. By focusing on tribal populations and urban Indian communities, the fund seeks to eliminate barriers to culturally appropriate care. Given Montana's high suicide rates and historical lack of services, this initiative is critical for improving mental health outcomes. It supports innovative approaches and technology to reach those in underserved areas, ensuring that essential mental health services are available for all.

The Treacy Foundation offers grants exceeding $10,000 to support nonprofit organizations in Montana. These grants focus on capital campaigns, asset improvements, and maintenance. Eligible applicants are those aligning with the Foundation's mission to strengthen community services. However, the Foundation does not fund operating expenses, travel, or grants to individuals. This funding opportunity aims to enhance local nonprofit capacities and provide scholarships for higher education.

The Treacy Foundation Grant offers support for nonprofit organizations in Montana, focusing on capital campaigns and asset improvements. Grants of $10,000 or less can be submitted anytime, while larger requests must adhere to specific deadlines. Applicants are encouraged to send a one-page letter detailing their project prior to submission. The foundation aims to strengthen community initiatives and assist students in pursuing higher education through financial grants.

The Montana Trout Foundation aims to preserve and enhance Montana's wild trout resources through funding scientific research, education, and habitat enhancement. By promoting awareness of water quality and environmental preservation, the foundation supports projects that contribute to healthier fisheries and improved fishing experiences. Their grant program encourages initiatives that align with these goals, ensuring that the natural environment and trout habitats are maintained for future generations.

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 Land & Water Conservation Fund Recreation Grants, administered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, support outdoor recreation projects through matching grants to state, tribal, and local entities. Since 1964, over 800 projects have been funded, enhancing public parks, trails, and recreational facilities. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and state agencies, while a 50% non-federal match is required. The program fosters community engagement in outdoor activities and conservation efforts.

The Norm Winn Memorial Conservation Grant, managed by the Keta Legacy Foundation, supports conservation, preservation, and restoration projects in Alaska, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, and Eastern Washington. This competitive grant encourages non-profit organizations to apply for up to $25,000 to implement innovative environmental initiatives. Applicants must demonstrate project feasibility and significant community impact, while ensuring their proposals align with the Foundation's commitment to supporting diverse conservation efforts.

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 First Interstate BancSystem Foundation focuses on strengthening communities by providing grants primarily to nonprofits assisting low- and moderate-income individuals. In 2023, they awarded $9.2 million across their footprint, emphasizing projects with significant community impact. Grants are recommended by local First Interstate Bank branches and are evaluated based on the nonprofit's leadership, financial stability, and community benefit. Areas of ineligibility include individual projects and those that do not demonstrate a substantial community impact.

The Vonda and David Mason Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, provides financial assistance to students pursuing a degree in Elementary Education. Award amounts vary, and eligibility includes being a senior status student in a rural/small school district, demonstrating financial need, and maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.75. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to fostering education in Montana's communities.

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.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Montana provide essential technical assistance and training for small rural businesses with fewer than 50 workers and under $1 million in revenue. Grants support various projects aimed at enhancing rural economies, including training, infrastructure development, and business planning. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests receive priority, and funds can be allocated for community and technology-based economic development, ensuring sustainable growth in rural areas.

The International Society of Automation (ISA) Montana Section Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology. Eligible candidates must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors maintaining a minimum 3.0 GPA with a focus on instrumentation and automation. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities while fostering innovation and practical skills essential for future careers in the engineering field.

The Montana Water Resources Graduate Student Fellowship Program, managed by the Montana Water Center, offers funding opportunities for graduate students engaged in water resource research. Each year, the program provides 3-6 fellowships of $2500 to support various research-related expenses. Eligible applicants must be current graduate students at a Montana institution. The program particularly encourages indigenous students to apply and explore additional funding through related initiatives.

The Ivan L. Leigland Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports second-, third-, and fourth-year students pursuing a degree in Environmental Design. Designed for high school graduates from Montana, this scholarship aims to nurture future leaders in architecture and design. With varying award amounts, it reflects MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement, enhancing educational opportunities in the region while fostering innovation and quality of life for Montanans.