Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Montana

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The Energy Laboratories Chemistry Scholarship at Montana State University supports junior and senior students in Chemistry and Biochemistry with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to Montana high school graduates. This scholarship aims to foster academic excellence while enhancing community engagement and research that benefits Montana's economy and quality of life. Award amounts vary, reflecting MSU's commitment to accessible education and student success.

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 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 Doug Alexander Sunrise Rotary Memorial Scholarship at Montana State University supports Montana residents who are junior or senior students in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship or the Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. Applicants must demonstrate financial need, maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA, and show involvement in campus or community activities. This scholarship aims to foster educational advancement and community engagement, thereby strengthening Montana's workforce.

The Electrical and Computer Engineering Recruitment Scholarship at Montana State University supports students majoring in Computer, Electrical, or General Engineering. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.25 to qualify. This scholarship aims to encourage academic excellence and innovation in engineering fields while addressing the needs of Montana and beyond. MSU, the state's largest public research university, is committed to fostering student success and community engagement.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The James and Florence Keith Alpha Zeta Scholarship at Montana State University supports College of Agriculture students who are active members of the Alpha Zeta Society. Preference is given to undergraduates with two years remaining in their program, and those pursuing Veterinary Medicine. This scholarship aims to promote student success and contribute to the agricultural sector, with award amounts varying based on funding availability.

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.

Housing Trust Fund Program

Established under Title I of the Housing and Economic Recovery Act of 2008, the HTF Program is a federal block grant designed to create affordable housing for extremely low-income households. Montana’s HTF funds are allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The Montana Department of Commerce administers the program and grants these funds to entities for the development and preservation of affordable housing. The HTF complements existing federal, state and local efforts to increase the supply of decent, safe and sanitary affordable housing for extremely low income families, including households with special needs, households experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

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.

HOME Investment Partnerships Program

Created under Title II of the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, the HOME Investment Partnerships Program is the largest federal block grant that is designed exclusively to create affordable housing for low-income households. Montana’s HOME funds are allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The Montana Department of Commerce administers the program and grants these funds to local governments, nonprofit organizations and private developers to develop and preserve affordable housing for or offer homebuyer assistance to income-eligible individuals and families. An individual may not apply directly to the HOME Program.

The HOME Program does the following:

• Expands the supply of affordable housing for Montanans with low- and very low-incomes
• Improves the means of state and local governments to implement strategies to achieve adequate supplies of decent, affordable housing
• Provides both financial and technical assistance to participants to develop model programs for affordable housing

Housing Development Projects

Commerce accepts applications for housing development annually. Funds are awarded to construct, acquire and/or rehabilitate rental properties, or develop new units for homeownership. Awards are to fill financing gaps and may not exceed HUD-determined subsidy limits. Additionally, 5% of HOME investments must be matched.

The Ardy SixKiller Clarke Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing careers in education. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in the Teacher Education Program, maintain a minimum GPA of 2.75, and provide proof of American Indian heritage. This need-sensitive award aims to assist future educators dedicated to serving their communities, while also reinforcing MSU's commitment to student success and community engagement.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.

The Western SARE Farmer/Rancher Grants support agricultural producers in developing innovative, sustainable practices through research and outreach. Eligible applicants include farmers or ranchers who collaborate with technical advisors to implement projects focused on addressing specific agricultural needs. Grants can provide funding up to $25,000 for 1-2 producers and up to $29,900 for larger collaborations. The program aims to enhance profitability, environmental quality, and community well-being while sharing knowledge among producers.

The WISEWOMAN Program, funded by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, aims to conduct cardiovascular risk assessments for low-income women aged 35-64 who are uninsured or underinsured. This initiative addresses social determinants of health (SDOH) and includes tracking referrals and participation in Healthy Behavior Support Services. It is designed to improve women's health outcomes by ensuring access to necessary health programs and services.

The Asian Cultural Council's New York Fellowship offers a transformative six-month program for artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia. Participants engage deeply with New York City's vibrant cultural landscape, attending performances, exhibitions, and workshops while building networks with local communities. This unique opportunity fosters peer-learning and individual artistic development, encouraging fellows to incorporate their experiences into their practices and contribute to their home cultures. The fellowship emphasizes exploration, exchange, and support, culminating in a rich cultural immersion.

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 CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Halt Cancer at X Grant Program, administered by Montana Equestrian Events, Inc., focuses on enhancing breast cancer awareness and support in the Flathead Valley. Since its inception in 2012, it has allocated over $475,000 to local organizations addressing breast cancer screening, treatment needs, and survivor support. This one-year grant encourages proposals that promote education and community wellness, with a preference for projects benefiting the local area.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

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.

The Carol Boughton STEM Scholarship at Montana State University supports undergraduates pursuing degrees in STEM fields. MSU, founded in 1893, is Montana's leading public research university, dedicated to education and community engagement. This scholarship aims to foster innovation and prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to society, particularly in areas such as engineering, nursing, and the sciences. By investing in students, MSU enhances opportunities for local communities and strengthens the economy.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5430 - Unlocking Value and Opportunities from Carbon Flows in Water Utilities

Grant Information

• Identify carbon flows across drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, and advanced treatment systems. Carbon flows may include source water, stormwater, process emissions, process inputs, residuals, and biogas.
• Identify the most relevant carbon recovery, capture, conversion, storage, and avoidance opportunities.
• Evaluate value creation pathways, including products, avoided costs, and environmental attributes, and mechanisms and partnerships needed to put them into practice.
• Assess how opportunities vary across system types and local contexts by focusing on more common scenarios for utilities.
• Provide practical, research-based insights to support identification, prioritization, evaluation, and advancement of carbon management opportunities under site-specific conditions and constraints.
• Evaluate implications for greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, environmental attribute claims, and other potential benefits across pathways.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.