Best Grants for Preschools in Montana

The Western SARE Professional + Producer Grant Program fosters collaboration between Agricultural Technical Advisors and Producers to promote sustainable agriculture through research and outreach. This initiative aims to improve environmental quality, enhance profitability for farmers, and ensure community well-being. By supporting demonstrations, educational activities, and practical applications, the program seeks to communicate effective sustainable practices to agricultural professionals, ultimately benefiting rural economies and ecosystems.

The Western SARE Graduate Student Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative research and educational outreach in sustainable agriculture. Funded by the USDA, it aims to enhance environmental quality, improve profitability for producers, and uplift rural communities. Projects must involve both research and education components, with proposals authored by graduate students collaborating with their advisors. This initiative fosters communication of results to agricultural professionals, ensuring practical applications for sustainable practices in the Western U.S.

The Andre Ellingson Film Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students in the School of Film and Photography. This opportunity is designed for those pursuing degrees in Film Option, Film Foundations, or Integrated Lens-Based Media. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and possess sophomore standing or higher, showcasing strong creative potential. While academic records are considered, this scholarship emphasizes artistic ability. Award amounts vary, aligning with the university's commitment to fostering creativity in the arts.

About the Montana Arts Council

The Montana Arts Council is the agency of state government established to develop the creative potential of all Montanans, advance education, spur economic vibrancy, and revitalize communities through involvement in the arts. The Montana Arts Council is governed by 15 individuals appointed by the Governor. It is funded by the state and federal government.

Strategic Investment Grants

Strategic Investment Grants (SIG) provide up to $1000 for expenses related to opportunities for professional development, market expansion, and art events. SIG enables artists and teachers to advance their professional careers and supports nonprofit organizations in the advancement of arts-related programs.

SIG supports a wide variety of arts-related activities and opportunities:

• Attendance at workshops, trainings, residencies, or conferences
• Exhibiting at trade shows, gallery showings conferences, festivals, or other art events
• Public outreach and marketing for events or publications
• Expansion of online presence or entry into new online marketplaces
• Performances, public art installations, demonstrations, or exhibitions
• Investments in technology or tools that represent a clear step forward professionally

Application Type: Artist or Organization

Both individual artists--or groups of artists--and Montana 501(c)(3) organizations are eligible to apply for Strategic Investment Grants. Artists and organizations will be directed to separate applications and will be evaluated according to different criteria.

Artists

The SIG program supports artists by enabling them to take advantage of opportunities to enhance their artistic careers. Example expenses the grant will reimburse include:

• Travel or entry fees associated with the opportunity
• Preparation, freight, and shipping costs for materials or works
• Materials or supplies for workshops, trainings, or residencies
• Expenses associated with an exceptional learning environment, such as residency or intensive study with a recognized master or mentor
• Professional fees and services for marketing, outreach, event production, or documenting an event
• Fees for equipment, instruments or facility that are integral to the opportunity 

The Conservation Education Grant supports educational programs in forestry and natural resources for pre-K to 12th-grade students and their educators. It aims to enhance youth engagement in nature education and improve the capabilities of forestry professionals and volunteers. Applications emphasize outdoor activities and professional development, with awards capped at $3,000, requiring project completion within a year. Though no match is mandatory, a 25% contribution is encouraged to strengthen funding applications.

The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, provides essential funding for rural fire departments. Administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, this program supports training, equipment, and organization efforts to enhance firefighting capabilities. Authorized by the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1990, the VFC grant plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of communities facing wildfires and other emergencies across Montana.

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.

Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Forces (MJDTF)

Description

The Montana Board of Crime Control (MBCC) is soliciting proposals for Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) – Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force (MJDTF) programs to be funded by the U.S Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Assistance.

The application process is competitive. A 30% hard cash local match of the total cost of each MJDTF project (JAG grant funds plus local match) is required for each JAG-funded project. Applicants may not declare a match of more than 30%. Match must be derived from non-federal sources.

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.

Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA)

Description

The FVPSA grant funds shall be used for programs and projects that are designed to prevent incidents of family violence, domestic violence, and dating violence by providing immediate shelter and supportive services, and that may include paying for the operating and administrative expenses of the facilities for a shelter, for adult and youth victims of family violence, domestic violence, or dating violence, and their dependents; and that may be used to provide prevention services to prevent future incidents of family violence, domestic violence, and dating violence (42 U.S.C. § 10408(a) and 42 U.S.C. § 10408(b)(1)(A)). The application process is non-competitive. 

Matching contributions of 20% (cash or in-kind) of the total cost of the FVPSA project (federal funds plus local match) are required and must be derived from non-federal sources. Federally Recognized Tribes are not required to provide match.

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. 

The René M. Vandervelde Research Grant, offered by the Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences, provides $1000 annually to support students and researchers in marine paleontology, geology, or stratigraphy of the Late Cretaceous Pierre and Bearpaw Shales in North America. Established in 2007 with the support of Korite® International, the grant aims to promote scientific research and publications about the unique fauna and flora found in these geological deposits.

The Native Voices Endowment Grants, managed by the Endangered Language Fund, support the preservation of endangered languages associated with Native American tribes that interacted with the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1803-1806. Grants are available for language documentation, revitalization, and educational projects, fostering cultural heritage through various initiatives. Eligible applicants include tribal members and language programs, ensuring the continuation of linguistic traditions and community involvement in revitalizing native languages.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The College of Business Dean's Excellence Scholarship at Montana State University is designed for students pursuing a degree or minor in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship aims to support incoming students and enhance their educational journey, contributing to MSU's long-standing commitment to transformative higher education since 1893. A limited number of scholarships are available, emphasizing the university's dedication to student success and community growth.

The College of Business Dean's Merit Scholarship at Montana State University offers financial support to incoming first-year and transfer students enrolled in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship aims to enhance educational opportunities for students pursuing business degrees, reflecting MSU's commitment to providing transformative higher education. With a limited number of awards available, it serves as a vital resource for aspiring business leaders in the community.

The College of Business DECA Scholarship at Montana State University is designed for incoming freshmen enrolled in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Eligible applicants must be active DECA members, Montana high school graduates, and maintain a minimum 3.25 GPA. This scholarship is awarded in two parts: half for the fall semester and the remainder contingent on maintaining a 2.75 GPA after the fall. This opportunity supports students in pursuing their business education.

The College of Business Honorary/Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in business. Established as part of MSU's commitment to education since 1893, this scholarship honors the institution's legacy and aims to empower the next generation of business leaders. Incoming students may apply for this limited opportunity, reflecting MSU's dedication to offering transformative educational experiences that benefit individuals and communities alike.

The College of Business National Board of Advisors Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Established in 1893, MSU is committed to transforming lives through quality education and research. This scholarship is part of a broader initiative to provide financial assistance to incoming students, fostering future leaders in the business sector while enhancing their educational journey.

The College of Business Orser Scholarship at Montana State University supports incoming freshmen pursuing a degree in business. Established in 1893, MSU offers a transformative educational experience. This scholarship is part of the university's commitment to providing accessible higher education opportunities to students. To qualify, applicants must be full-time students with freshman status. Limited scholarships are available, reflecting MSU's dedication to fostering academic and professional growth in the business field.

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 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 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.

Humanities Montana's Community Project Grants support nonprofit organizations and public institutions across the state, fostering public humanities programs that engage Montanans in meaningful discussions about the human condition. These grants aim to strengthen cooperative relationships among diverse communities and cultural organizations, enriching civic discourse. Projects can range from film screenings to cultural festivals, all designed to inspire timely conversations and reflect local community needs.

Intermountain Community Care Foundation

Our mission: Helping people live the healthiest lives possible.

Intermountain Health is the largest nonprofit health system in the Intermountain West. We’re dedicated to creating healthier communities and helping our patients thrive.

Intermountain Health was established in 1975, but our legacy of compassion and care extends well beyond that, going back to the late 1800s and the early 1900s in Colorado and Utah respectively. We have since become a 60,000+ person strong nonprofit health system, with operations in six states across the interior West with a shared vision to be a model health system that inspires the future of health.

Intermountain Healthcare, SCL Health, and HealthCare Partners Nevada have now come together to serve communities in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming.

Grants

The Intermountain Community Care Foundation awards grants to organizations whose programs align with Intermountain Health’s mission, our national community health areas of focus, and priorities identified through our Community Health Needs Assessment. By supporting evidence-based programs and services that strengthen communities, the Foundation is dedicated to helping people live the healthiest lives possible.

What We Fund

We provide grants to organizations whose programs align with Intermountain Health’s mission, our national community health areas of focus, and priorities identified through our Community Health Needs Assessment.

• Healthcare Access Grants
• Social Drivers of Health Grants
• Child & Family Mental Well-Being Grants
• Utah Education Innovation Grants

Child & Family Mental Well-Being Grants

To qualify for Child and Family Mental Well-Being funding, your program or service must focus on families with children. Funding priority areas include:

• Mental well-being for children, including: reducing suicide deaths; reducing frequent mental distress, anxiety, and depression; decreasing substance misuse
• Advance prevention and early intervention addressing risk and protective factors
• Expand comprehensive, family-centered, mental well-being programs
• Build trauma-informed systems for young children including evidence-based prevention, behavioral health treatment, or related interventions or programs
• Strengthen community behavioral health capacity and collaborations through coalition-building

Requirements

• A full and complete financial audit conducted within the last two years. Submission must include the entire audit, including any findings and the auditor's letter
• A copy of the organization's 501(c)(3) designation letter or a comparable government designation
• A completed W9
• A completed Supplier Form (a blank copy will be provided in the application)

Additional information

• In Utah and Idaho, applicants can request a total grant award between $5,000 to $100,000 per year for 3 years (up to $300,000 total) for the entire project period. Projects can last between 12 and 36 months and must begin upon receipt of funding.
• In Colorado, Montana, and Nevada, applicants can request a total grant award between $5,000 to $50,000 per year for 2 years (up to $100,000 total) for the entire project period. Projects can last between 12 and 36 months and must begin upon receipt of funding.
• A funding request may not exceed 20 percent of an organization’s annual operating budget, e.g., to be eligible for a $50,000 grant, your organization’s annual operating budget must be at least $250,000.
• In general, small equipment and materials are eligible at no more than a total $5,000 cost, but large equipment, construction, and capital costs are not eligible. Consideration will be given if computer equipment is necessary and vital to the success of the project.

Intermountain Community Care Foundation

Our mission: Helping people live the healthiest lives possible.

Intermountain Health is the largest nonprofit health system in the Intermountain West. We’re dedicated to creating healthier communities and helping our patients thrive.

Intermountain Health was established in 1975, but our legacy of compassion and care extends well beyond that, going back to the late 1800s and the early 1900s in Colorado and Utah respectively. We have since become a 60,000+ person strong nonprofit health system, with operations in six states across the interior West with a shared vision to be a model health system that inspires the future of health.

Intermountain Healthcare, SCL Health, and HealthCare Partners Nevada have now come together to serve communities in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, and Wyoming.

Grants

The Intermountain Community Care Foundation awards grants to organizations whose programs align with Intermountain Health’s mission, our national community health areas of focus, and priorities identified through our Community Health Needs Assessment. By supporting evidence-based programs and services that strengthen communities, the Foundation is dedicated to helping people live the healthiest lives possible.

What We Fund

We provide grants to organizations whose programs align with Intermountain Health’s mission, our national community health areas of focus, and priorities identified through our Community Health Needs Assessment.

• Healthcare Access Grants
• Social Drivers of Health Grants
• Child & Family Mental Well-Being Grants
• Utah Education Innovation Grants

Social Drivers of Health Grants

To qualify for Social Drivers of Health grant funding, your program or service must align with at least one of these social drivers of health priorities:

• Improve nutrition security
• Improve stable and quality housing through wraparound and support services

Requirements

• A full and complete financial audit conducted within the last two years. Submission must include the entire audit, including any findings and the auditor's letter
• A copy of the organization's 501(c)(3) designation letter or comparable government designation
• A completed W9
• A completed Supplier Form (a blank copy will be provided in the application)

Additional information

• Applications will be accepted for new or existing programs that clearly address a social driver of health. New programs may include pilot initiatives.
• In Utah and Idaho, applicants can request a total grant award between $5,000 to $100,000 per year for 3 years (up to $300,000 total) for the entire project period. Projects can last between 12 and 36 months and must begin upon receipt of funding.
• In Colorado, Montana, and Nevada, applicants can request a total grant award between $5,000 to $50,000 per year for 2 years (up to $100,000 total) for the entire project period. Projects can last between 12 and 36 months and must begin upon receipt of funding.
• Budget Limitation - A funding request may not exceed 20 percent of an organization’s annual operating budget, e.g., to be eligible for a $50,000 grant, your organization’s annual operating budget must be at least $250,000.
• In general, small equipment and materials, such as jump ropes or cooking utensils are eligible, at no more than a total $5,000 cost, but large equipment, construction, and capital costs are not eligible. Consideration will be given if computer equipment is necessary and vital to the success of the project.

The Society for Ecological Restoration Northwest Chapter offers Student Research Grants up to $3,000 to support research that enhances ecosystem restoration in the Cascadia bioregion. Eligible applicants include social or natural science graduate students and upper-level undergraduates. The grant can cover various project expenses, fostering innovative approaches to restore natural systems while promoting the diversity of life in the region.

The Montana Civil Monetary Penalty Reinvestment Funds support initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of care for nursing home residents. Funds are allocated to assist facilities facing closure, support resident relocation, and improve care quality through technical assistance and training programs. This program, managed by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, aims to utilize civil monetary penalties imposed on non-compliant nursing homes to directly benefit vulnerable populations and improve their overall quality of life.

Montana Department of Commerce

Mission

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.

Montana Coal Endowment Program Infrastructure (MCEP)

The Montana Coal Endowment Program was formally known as the Treasure State Endowment Program. Any references to the Treasure State Endowment Program or “TSEP” now refer to the Montana Coal Endowment Program or “MCEP” as authorized by the 67th Legislature in Senate Bill 258 (Chapter 330, Laws 2021). The Montana Coal Endowment Program (MCEP) is a state-funded program created in 1992 as a result of Legislative Referendum 110. It is designed to help solve serious health and safety problems and assist communities with the financing of public facilities projects. The program helps local governments with constructing or upgrading drinking water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, sanitary or storm sewer systems, solid waste disposal and separation systems, and bridges.

Applicants must have the management capacity to undertake and satisfactorily complete the project applied for and assure proper management of MCEP funds. Grant recipients must be in compliance with applicable auditing and financial reporting requirements and have the capability to specifically assure proper tracking and recording of funds.