Best Grants for Preschools in Montana

The Crawford Wildlife Habitat Gallatin College Undergraduate Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing degrees or certificates related to wildlife habitat. This scholarship emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement, aligning with MSU's mission to foster innovation and prepare graduates for meaningful contributions to society. Award amounts vary, and the scholarship falls under the Workforce Development framework, providing essential financial support to students passionate about environmental stewardship.

The Carol Clarke Smith Scholarship for Veteran Spouses at Montana State University supports spouses of U.S. Armed Forces veterans, including unmarried widows and widowers. This scholarship aims to provide accessible education opportunities while honoring those who have served in recent conflicts like Iraq or Afghanistan. With award amounts varying, MSU emphasizes community engagement and student success, ensuring that recipients are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully 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.

National Arts Futures Fellowship

The National Arts Futures Fellowship (NAFF) is a six-month virtual leadership development program rooted in democracy, wellness, and belonging. It calls on early and mid-career arts and culture professionals from all backgrounds to step into their power as civic leaders and cultural innovators—building the skills, networks, and vision needed to shape a future where creativity drives justice, care, and connection.

Fellows join a national network committed to strengthening public life, nurturing collective wellness, and fostering deep belonging across communities. Together, they learn, experiment, and act—advancing a shared vision of leadership that is sustainable, community-rooted, and future-focused.

Each fellow enters NAFF with a Personal Action Project (PAP)—a concrete idea they will develop and implement with support from peers, coaches, guest experts, and flexible seed funding of $250–$1,000. Projects may include launching a cultural initiative, organizing a community campaign, supporting artist-led advocacy, seeking a public leadership role, or piloting another form of civic or community action. Throughout the fellowship, each project evolves through coaching, peer feedback, strategy sessions, and real-world experimentation. Fellows conclude the program by sharing their project, leadership growth, and next steps at the National Fellows Summit.

What’s New in Cohort Two?

• Cohort Two expands NAFF from six to seven monthly sessions and adds two new elements that support fellows in moving their Personal Action Projects from development into implementation:
• Seed Funding: Fellows may request $250–$1,000 in flexible funding to test, pilot, or implement their projects during the fellowship.
• Artists Thrive Framework: Fellows will use the framework to assess their work, identify opportunities for growth, and strengthen artist-led advocacy, collaboration, and community impact.

Guiding Principles

• Democracy — Use the arts to strengthen civic participation, expand public trust, and make decision-making more accessible and inclusive.
• Wellness — Treat care, rest, and healing as strategic leadership tools for sustaining movements and communities.
• Belonging — Create spaces where leaders can thrive together across differences, build trust, and celebrate shared humanity.

What kinds of projects are supported?

Examples: Running for office, launching cultural programs, organizing campaigns, supporting policies. Projects can be local, regional, or national in scope.

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 Druyvestein, Johnson and Anderson Company Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. Established as part of MSU's commitment to education since 1893, this scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to incoming students in the Engineering fields. Applicants should demonstrate a passion for engineering and a commitment to their academic journey, ensuring a brighter future for both themselves and their communities.

The Calvin Steven Curran Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming freshmen who are Montana high school graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0. This renewable scholarship prioritizes students from Ophir School in Big Sky, Montana. Established to enhance educational access, it reflects the university's commitment to community transformation through higher education.

The Eric Pedersen Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Biological, Chemical, or Mechanical Engineering. Applicants must have junior status and a minimum GPA of 3.2, demonstrating financial need. This scholarship aims to empower future engineers by providing financial assistance to those who show promise and commitment to their studies. It's an opportunity for students to excel and contribute to their communities through engineering.

The Carlson Music Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in music. To qualify, applicants must have completed the School of Music scholarship audition and be enrolled in applicable programs. This scholarship aims to foster talent in the arts, particularly for those participating in music ensembles. MSU, a historic institution established in 1893, emphasizes transformative education and outreach, enhancing community access to higher education.

The Carl Swartz Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Film and Photography, particularly those in the Film Option, Integrated Lens-Based Media, or Science and Natural History Filmmaking. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and 3.25 in their major courses. Preference is given to students with junior status or above, enhancing educational opportunities in the arts and architecture fields.

The Caroline B. Jacobs Scholarship offers financial assistance to students pursuing a degree at Montana State University. This scholarship is available to sophomores, juniors, and seniors demonstrating financial need. It reflects MSU's commitment to providing transformative education and support to its students, helping them achieve their academic goals and succeed in their future careers.

The Donald J. Baker Scholarship at Montana State University supports Valley County high school graduates pursuing a degree, excluding Gallatin College, who demonstrate financial need. This prestigious scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to accessibility and student success, helping individuals from local communities achieve their educational goals. Established to empower students, it plays a significant role in enhancing opportunities and fostering economic development in Montana, aligning with the university's mission to serve its students and the broader community.

The Chestnutt Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. MSU, founded in 1893, is Montana's leading public research university, dedicated to education and community engagement. This scholarship requires applicants to complete specific sections of the General Application to be considered. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering student success in nursing.

The Donald J. Baker Gallatin College Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, is designed to assist Valley County high school graduates pursuing degrees or certificates at Gallatin College while demonstrating financial need. This scholarship aims to support students in their educational journeys and promote workforce development in Montana. Award amounts vary, reflecting the commitment of MSU to enhance educational opportunities and contribute to the local community's economic growth.

The Dohleman Civil Engineering Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents pursuing degrees in civil engineering, particularly those interested in structural engineering or engineering mechanics. Established to enhance educational opportunities, the scholarship varies in amount and aims to foster student success and community engagement. MSU, as a premier land-grant institution, is committed to advancing research and providing high-quality education to over 16,000 students, preparing them for meaningful contributions to society.

The Distinction in Architecture Scholarship at Montana State University supports second- to fifth-year architecture students aiming for a Master's degree. Applicants must maintain a minimum 3.5 GPA and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to accessible education and fostering innovative leaders in architecture. With its strong emphasis on hands-on learning and community engagement, MSU prepares students to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy.

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.

The Chi Epsilon Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports junior students majoring in Civil or Environmental Engineering. This scholarship recognizes individuals who embody the honor society's values of scholarship, character, practicality, and sociability. With diverse award amounts, it aims to foster academic excellence and community engagement while preparing students to tackle real-world challenges in engineering.

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 Diane B. Towers Nursing Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate nursing students completing clinical coursework at the Bozeman campus. It is designed for those demonstrating financial need and requires applicants to fill out the Activities and Involvement sections of the General Application. The award amount varies, reflecting the university's commitment to fostering educational opportunities in nursing and enhancing community health through skilled professionals.

Opportunities in Rural Economies: Economic Development Organization Capacity Building Grant

Program Overview

The ORE Program suite has two components: participation loans, including low-interest loans and forgivable loans, and grants.

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.

ORE Program loans and grants may not be used for a project that would result in the transfer or relocation of jobs from one part of the state to another part of the state. See § 90-1-203(1), MCA.

The Montana Department of Commerce has created the ORE LPP, the ORE EDO CBG and the ORE GP. The ORE Program suite exists within the Big Sky Economic Development Program authorized by §§ 90-1-201, MCA, et seq.

The purpose of the ORE EDO CBG is to assist EDOs in increasing their internal capacity to:

• Provide outreach to underserved rural businesses.
• Deliver technical assistance to advance economic development in their regions.
• Invest in technological improvements and innovations to improve operations.
• Provide training and professional development opportunities for staff and local business partners.

The Christine Chauvin Excellence in Nursing Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing a degree in nursing. This scholarship emphasizes the importance of community engagement and is designed for those who have completed the necessary application sections. With varying award amounts, it aims to assist future nursing professionals in their educational journey, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the healthcare needs of Montana and beyond.

The CHS University Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students pursuing agriculture-focused or related STEM degrees. It is designed for those who demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership in university, community, or agricultural activities. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, with preference given to those interested in agricultural-based cooperatives. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to fostering education and innovation in the agriculture sector.

The College of EHHD Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Education, Health, and Human Development. Established in 1893, MSU is committed to providing transformative educational opportunities. This scholarship is part of a broader initiative offering financial assistance to incoming students, enhancing their academic journey and career prospects. With limited availability, it aims to recognize and support the dedication of future leaders in these essential fields.

The College of EHHD Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Education, Health, and Human Development. Established as part of MSU's commitment to transformative education since 1893, this scholarship aims to help incoming students access higher education opportunities. With a limited number of scholarships available, it encourages applicants to demonstrate their dedication to these vital fields of study, fostering future leaders and professionals in the community.

The Cindy Fitschen Wilson Endowed Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduate students from Montana high schools pursuing degrees in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship emphasizes financial need and aims to empower future leaders in business. Montana State University, a prominent public research institution, is committed to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community engagement, thus contributing to the economic vitality of Montana.

The College of Business Scholarship at Montana State University offers financial support to students pursuing a degree or minor from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. With a commitment to transforming lives through education, this scholarship aims to enhance access to higher education for incoming students. As MSU continues its mission since 1893, the scholarship reflects its dedication to fostering academic success and community development.

The C. K. Chan Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports undergraduate students pursuing a degree in engineering. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25, and be enrolled as full-time students. This scholarship aims to empower students in their educational endeavors, contributing to their personal and professional growth while fostering innovation in the engineering field.