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Search Through Grants for Rural Development in Montana

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants program in Montana provides crucial support for communities facing emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. It assists in the construction and repair of water infrastructure, with grants available for water transmission lines and sources, helping to restore access to clean water in rural areas. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and tribes, ensuring that assistance reaches those in need and aids recovery from various natural disasters.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The MCF Snowbird Fund, managed by the Montana Community Foundation, provides vital support to Native families in Montana searching for missing loved ones. Eligible individuals can receive up to $1,000 for necessary expenses such as travel, meals, and tools. Since its inception, the fund has aimed to empower community-led searches across urban, rural, and reservation areas, reinforcing the foundation's commitment to philanthropy and community development in Montana.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

The Environmental Justice Giving Project Grant focuses on achieving equitable access to a clean environment for frontline communities affected by climate crisis and environmental injustices. The grant supports organizing efforts led by Black, Indigenous, and people of color organizations, prioritizing those in rural and reservation areas. Eligible projects include resource mobilization for housing, access to clean food and water, leadership development, and climate resilience initiatives, with grants of $50,000 available over two years.

The Sloan Indigenous Graduate Partnership (SIGP) Scholarship Program, funded by the A.P. Sloan Foundation, aims to support Indigenous graduate students in STEM fields. This program, a collaboration among the Montana University System institutions, offers scholarships, professional development, and networking opportunities to enhance the academic journey of Indigenous students. With awards of $20,000 for M.S. and $40,000 for Ph.D. candidates, the SIGP seeks to increase the number of Indigenous scholars earning advanced degrees in science and engineering.

The Powder River Community Endowment Fund aims to enhance the economic vitality of the Greater Powder River Area by empowering local communities to develop resources and plan projects. Established with support from the Ford Foundation, it functions as a permanent endowment fund that ensures continuous funding for community needs. With a focus on grassroots decision-making, the fund supports various charitable projects while maintaining the region's rural character and improving the quality of life for its residents.

The TRANSform Culture Fellowship, supported by the Pride Foundation, is dedicated to uplifting Transgender, Two-Spirit, Nonbinary, and Intersex (2STNBI) individuals in the Northwest. This fellowship aims to foster community education, promote research, and develop a network of leaders to combat discrimination and advocate for cultural change. By providing financial support and training, the program empowers BIPOC 2STNBI leaders to thrive and lead impactful initiatives across Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington.

The Charlotte Martin Foundation's Wildlife and Habitat Program focuses on promoting biodiversity and habitat conservation in the Northwest. It engages communities in addressing climate change impacts while emphasizing the importance of ecosystem resilience. Through collaboration with local organizations, the program aims to restore critical habitats, enhance landscape connectivity, and support underserved populations in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. This initiative recognizes the vital role of community engagement and sustainable practices in protecting wildlife and natural resources.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Queer Justice Momentum Giving Project Grant supports grassroots organizations led by LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Northwest, focusing on combating anti-queer legislation and fostering community resilience. Grants of $40,000 over two years prioritize projects that empower marginalized groups, especially those led by Black, Indigenous, and POC individuals. This initiative aims to create inclusive spaces and promote social justice, ensuring that queer communities can thrive despite ongoing societal challenges.

The CHS Foundation is dedicated to enhancing agricultural education through its Teacher Grants program, providing up to $50,000 for innovative projects. This initiative aims to engage students in experiential learning within rural communities across various states. By supporting teachers and their creative ideas, the foundation fosters educational growth and prepares future agricultural leaders, ensuring a sustainable and empowered agricultural sector. This commitment reflects CHS's broader mission of community support and development.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Montana aims to provide affordable funding for essential community facilities in rural areas. This program supports various projects including healthcare, public safety, and educational services, ensuring communities have access to necessary resources. Eligible applicants include public bodies and non-profit organizations, with funding priorities focusing on low-income and small communities. Grants can cover up to 75% of project costs, making it a vital resource for rural development.

The MCF Community Heart & Soul Program, a collaboration between the Montana Community Foundation and Montana State University Extension, aims to empower rural communities in Montana to identify their core values and aspirations. This resident-driven initiative fosters community engagement through exploratory activities, grants, and support, ultimately enhancing local pride, volunteerism, and economic development. Selected communities will benefit from financial assistance, coaching, and a structured process over two years to ensure sustainable community growth and connection.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Angus and Anne McMillan Family EHHD Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Home Economics-related fields such as Community Health, Early Childhood Education, and Family and Consumer Sciences. This scholarship aims to enhance student success and community engagement while addressing the needs of Montana. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to providing accessible education and fostering innovation in health and human development.

The Frank and Leona Ceserani EHHD Scholarship at Montana State University offers financial support to students pursuing degrees in Home Economics-related fields. This scholarship is aimed at undergraduate and graduate students focusing on areas such as Community Health, Early Childhood Education, and Sustainable Food Systems. Established to promote education and outreach, it reflects MSU's commitment to transforming lives and communities through accessible higher education.

The Hazel Eddy Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing degrees in Home Economics and related fields. Established to enhance education in Health and Human Development, it offers financial assistance to Montana high school graduates. This scholarship aims to foster academic success and community engagement, ensuring that students have the resources necessary to achieve their educational goals. Opportunities are available for both undergraduate and graduate programs, promoting diverse pathways in education.

The Red Ants Pants Foundation Community Grant Program supports projects that enrich rural communities in Montana. Grants are awarded to organizations and individuals aligned with the Foundation's mission, focusing on leadership for women, preservation of family farms, and community development. Eligible applicants must demonstrate community support and the potential for significant local impact. With over $190,000 granted in the past cycles, this initiative fosters collaboration and growth in small towns, ensuring that rural voices are heard and valued.

The Cinnabar Foundation provides Program/Project Grants aimed at enhancing conservation efforts in Montana and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. These grants, ranging from $2,500 to $15,000, support organizations that engage in impactful, grassroots conservation work. Priority is given to projects that align with the Foundation's strategic vision, including climate adaptation, wildlife habitat conservation, public land preservation, and improving air and water quality. Successful applicants will demonstrate measurable outcomes and community engagement.

Tenant and Housing Justice Grant

Social Justice Fund Northwest (SJF) is pleased to announce the 2026 Tenant & Housing Justice Grant, open to grassroots organizations in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and/or Wyoming.

Grant Awards:

• Maximum one-year grant award of $25,000

Focus:

• Tenant and housing justice organizing in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming

Description

This grant seeks to support organizations working to undo and/or create alternative solutions to exploitative housing systems which were built and are sustained by capitalism, colonialism, classism, racism, xenophobia, and ableism. This grant will fund organizations that meet SJF’s community organizing framework and prioritize communities underrepresented in traditional grantmaking.

Tenant and Housing Justice community organizing work can include, but is not limited to:

• Collective power building among tenants to dismantle and push against the current oppressive housing systems and structures 
  • Examples: rental and utilities assistance, tenants’ rights training, eviction prevention and intervention, etc.
• Local and statewide tenant and housing systems/policy change 
• Tenant leadership development
• Creating collective, cooperative housing structures
• Re-entry organizing by and for folks who were recently incarcerated to provide housing and resources, influence and set policy, etc.
• Disability justice organizing focused on affordable, accessible, and supportive housing for disabled folks and elders
• Survivor-led organizing for people transitioning out of abusive situations

The Reimagining Rural Grant, offered by the Montana Community Foundation, supports communities that engaged in the 2025 Reimagining Rural gatherings. These grants aim to fund community projects inspired by the innovative ideas discussed during the sessions held on February 4, 11, and 18. The foundation is dedicated to enhancing community collaboration and development, reinforcing its commitment to philanthropy in Montana.