Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Montana

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.

Amgen is a leading biotechnology company dedicated to advancing medicine through Independent Medical Education (IME). It funds accredited educational programs that empower healthcare providers to enhance patient care. IME funding supports critical areas such as oncology, bone health, cardiovascular education, and more. Amgen's commitment ensures that these educational activities remain unbiased and compliant with applicable guidelines, fostering innovation and improved health outcomes for patients worldwide.

The Doris Duke Foundation's Environment Program grants aim to foster a resilient environment through effective conservation efforts. By supporting U.S. nonprofit organizations, the foundation seeks to protect biodiversity, address climate change, and advance equity, particularly for marginalized communities. The program emphasizes land conservation, natural climate solutions, and inclusive practices, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and people. This initiative is pivotal for enhancing the health of ecosystems and communities across the United States.

The Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation provides essential funding to nonprofit organizations that improve the lives of economically and socially disadvantaged individuals. Since 1988, the foundation has supported various initiatives, including education, health services, and community programs. It emphasizes direct services with low administrative costs, ensuring that funds have a meaningful impact. Organizations applying must demonstrate a commitment to serving at-risk youth and families, particularly in Montana and select areas where The Washington Companies operate.

Columbia Basin Trust

The Trust was created in 1995 to support efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin—the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty.

Mission: The Trust supports efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being and to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations.

Non-profit SMART Grants

Non-Profit SMART Grants support Basin non-profits and First Nations to increase their energy efficiency, generate renewable energy, adapt to the impacts of climate change, and/or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

There are two streams for this grant: Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations; and Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

This stream supports solar photovoltaic arrays, energy efficiency retrofits or other building improvements to structures or property.

Columbia Basin Trust

The Trust was created in 1995 to support efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being in the Canadian portion of the Columbia River Basin—the region most affected by the Columbia River Treaty.

Mission: The Trust supports efforts by the people of the Basin to create a legacy of social, economic and environmental well-being and to achieve greater self-sufficiency for present and future generations.

Non-profit SMART Grants

Non-Profit SMART Grants support Basin non-profits and First Nations to increase their energy efficiency, generate renewable energy, adapt to the impacts of climate change, and/or reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

There are two streams for this grant: Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations; and Stream Two – Renewable Energy and Improvements to Buildings

Stream One – Electric Vehicles and Charging Stations

This stream supports the purchase of one new electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle for use in Basin communities, and/or up to two charging stations.

The Pride Foundation Community Grants Program supports LGBTQ+ organizations in the Northwest by providing consistent funding to advance equity and justice. Since 1987, over $12 million has been awarded, with a focus on innovative and grassroots organizations. The 2024 cycle includes both proactive grants and open applications, ensuring accessibility for all eligible groups. This initiative centers on racial justice and aims to empower BIPOC and TGNC communities, fostering health, education, and community-building efforts.

The Missouri-Madison River Fund Grant Program aims to enhance public recreation in the Missouri-Madison Project Area through a partnership of local, state, and federal agencies. It provides funding for qualifying projects, supported by matching funds from NorthWestern Energy, capped at $200,000 annually, adjusted for inflation. Projects must comply with the FERC Project 2188 License and align with local management plans to be considered for funding.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Every Kindness is a Gift

Dollar Tree Gift Card Program 2026

Every Kindness is a Gift is a gift card grant program made possible through the generosity of Dollar Tree and managed by the team here at Gift Card Bank. We are a nonprofit organization that specializes in the distribution of gift cards and our mission is to improve well-being and build financial stability by supporting people through their time of need.

Through Every Kindness is a Gift, nonprofit organizations and Title I schools located in the 48 contiguous states may apply to receive a grant of Dollar Tree gift cards.

Gift cards received through these grants are meant to be distributed directly to individuals and families in need. A primary goal of the program is to give gift card recipients the dignity of choice by empowering them to shop for what they need themselves. By putting gift cards directly in the hands of our neighbors in need, we are able to increase access to essentials like food, school supplies, paper products, cleaning products, and hygiene items.

In 2026, there will be two rounds of grant distributions. In each round, we will award a number of grants between $2,500 and $10,000.

Round One is a summer distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round One will arrive in late June, while kids are on break and back-to-school is around the corner. Round Two is a holiday distribution. Gift cards awarded in Round Two will arrive in early November, as the end-of-year holidays approach.

We know that these are times of year when budgets are tight. Through these gift card grants, we hope to connect individuals and families directly to the essential resources they need during difficult months.

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.

The Sigma Xi Grants-in-Aid of Research Program, celebrating 100 years of supporting research, offers financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students. Members can receive grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, while non-members can apply for up to $1,000. Additionally, there are specific funds available for astronomy and vision-related research. This program fosters collaboration between students and mentors, promoting scientific excellence through hands-on experience.

The MT 319 Nonpoint Source Pollution Project Grants, administered by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, aim to reduce nonpoint source pollution through competitive funding for eligible projects. This program supports various initiatives, including technical assistance and restoration efforts, to protect Montana's water quality. By implementing Best Management Practices and fostering community engagement, the program seeks to address diffuse pollution sources effectively. The 2012 Montana Nonpoint Source Management Plan outlines strategic goals to enhance these efforts.

Governor’s Office of Community Service aka ServeMontana

Established in 1993, Montana’s Commission on Community Service administers grants under the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993, amended by the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of 2009 and the Montana Community Service Act of 1994 (MCA 90-14-103). In partnership with the Montana Commission on Community Service, a primary function of the Governor’s Office of Community Service (GOCS) is administering funds to AmeriCorps State programs. 

AmeriCorps Montana

AmeriCorps State grants aid programs in addressing critical community needs, including Education, Disaster Services, Health, Environmental Stewardship, Economic Opportunity, and service to Veterans and Military Families. Grants must align with priorities in the Montana State Service Plan.

Eligible organizations may apply for the following AmeriCorps grants to address pressing needs in Montana: Competitive Program Grants; and Formula Program Grants.

Competitive Program Grants

Implement or continue a Competitive AmeriCorps State program.

This Notice is the first in a multistep process an applicant must complete to apply for and receive AmeriCorps State Competitive funding. ServeMontana’s role is to solicit, screen, and rank applications. This process is only for ranking; no funding will be awarded from this solicitation. All applications cleared through screening will be ranked and submitted to compete nationally for funding. 

Organizations continuing a competitively funded program or proposing an AmeriCorps State program that operates only in Montana must apply to this competition.

Expectations of All Applicants

• Address rural, Tribal, underserved, or areas of poverty not currently served by AmeriCorps programs;
• Clearly connect proposed activities to the needs and priorities in the Montana State Service Plan;
• Take a collaborative approach to program planning, design, and delivery;
• Recruit Montanans to serve in their local community; and
• Design and deliver an inclusive program that is accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Governor’s Office of Community Service aka ServeMontana

Established in 1993, Montana’s Commission on Community Service administers grants under the National and Community Service Trust Act of 1993, amended by the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act of 2009 and the Montana Community Service Act of 1994 (MCA 90-14-103). In partnership with the Montana Commission on Community Service, a primary function of the Governor’s Office of Community Service (GOCS) is administering funds to AmeriCorps State programs. 

AmeriCorps Montana

AmeriCorps State grants aid programs in addressing critical community needs, including Education, Disaster Services, Health, Environmental Stewardship, Economic Opportunity, and service to Veterans and Military Families. Grants must align with priorities in the Montana State Service Plan.

Eligible organizations may apply for the following AmeriCorps grants to address pressing needs in Montana: Competitive Program Grants; and Formula Program Grants.

Formula Program Grants

Implement or continue a Formula AmeriCorps State program.

This Notice is the first step an applicant must complete to apply for and receive AmeriCorps State Formula funding. ServeMontana’s role is to solicit, screen, and rank applications. All applications cleared through screening will be ranked and submitted to AmeriCorps for funding determination.

Organizations proposing a new AmeriCorps State program or continuing a currently formula funded program that places AmeriCorps members and operates only in Montana must apply to this competition.

Expectations of All Applicants

• Address rural, Tribal, underserved, or areas of poverty not currently served by AmeriCorps programs;
• Clearly connect proposed activities to the needs and priorities in the Montana State Service Plan;
• Take a collaborative approach to program planning, design, and delivery;
• Recruit Montanans to serve in their local community; and
• Design and deliver an inclusive program that is accessible to individuals with disabilities

The FY2026 Implementation of the Quagga and Zebra Mussel Action Plan (QZAP) seeks to address the rapid spread of these invasive species in the Western United States. This funding opportunity aims to support proposals that align with the priorities established in QZAP 2.0, focusing on critical areas for prevention and control. Applications will only be accepted through grantsolutions.gov, and the initiative is limited to U.S. states within the Western Regional Panel.

The Diminished Tree Species Grant Program focuses on restoring native tree species crucial for biodiversity and forest health. By funding scientific research, seed orchard development, and land preservation, the program aims to combat climate change through effective tree restoration projects. The Oak Hill Fund, a private entity, encourages project-specific applications, prioritizing organizations that meet eligibility criteria under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. This initiative is vital for sustaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating environmental impacts.

Who We Are

For Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana, health care is deeply personal. It's also inherently local — like us.

Our Local Focus

We’ve been serving the people of Montana for 85 years, and we’re committed to expanding access to quality, affordable health care to people in all phases of life. We offer health plan options for individuals and families, group customers and Medicare, and we deliver differentiated value to the people we serve through our focus on access, affordability, outcomes and innovation.

Community Giving

Each year, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana supports communities throughout our state with grants and sponsorships with the overarching goal of improving access to and affordability of health care. We are proud of these community investments and value the very important work that organizations are doing to keep Montanans healthy.

Community giving is divided into three areas: grants, sponsorships and Blue Impact℠ major grants. Areas of focus and exclusions for all funding requests, and specific requirements for each type of funding are detailed below, along with links to apply.

Areas of Focus

All community giving at BCBSMT is designed to build healthier communities as part of an ongoing commitment to invest in and partner with nonprofit organizations to reach Montanans in these focus areas:

• Economic opportunity and stability: Addressing issues such as poverty, removing barriers to employment, providing good jobs and upskilling;
• Nutrition: Supporting efforts to decrease hunger and increase access to nutritional food;
• Neighborhood and local assets: Focusing on affordable healthy housing, access to transportation and to physical activity;
• Locally defined health solutions: Addressing hyperlocal health and human service needs; and 
• Optimal health

BCBSMT Grants

A charitable grant supports either program-focused initiatives or general operating support. Grants provide support to programs and organizations that align with our mission to promote health, wellness and human services in the communities we serve.

The FY26 Bureau of Land Management Youth Conservation Corps program aims to engage youth aged 16-30, including veterans and tribal members, in hands-on conservation projects. These initiatives foster skills in natural resource management, promote public land stewardship, and enhance community involvement through trail building, habitat restoration, and cultural resource preservation. By partnering with qualified youth corps, the program supports economic growth and environmental health while preparing the next generation of public land stewards.

About Us

At the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), we are dedicated to our mission of serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. As the largest executive branch agency in the state, our broad reach allows us to provide essential, community-based support where and when it matters most. Our DPHHS team is passionate about improving our clients’ lives and helping them build a more secure and independent future.

Food Farmacy Project

Support food insecure patients to access food resources. Using a team-based care approach, a clinic will partner with a local food pantry to improve access to healthier food for patients with high blood pressure and/or high cholesterol. Funds cannot be used to directly purchase food.

The Sorenson Legacy Foundation Grant aims to improve lives through support for education, health care, community development, and innovation. Established by James and Beverley Sorenson, the foundation focuses on enhancing art education, medical technologies, and community assistance in Utah. It prioritizes projects that foster artistic growth, promote innovative solutions, and address health care challenges while aiding vulnerable populations. The foundation's commitment to enriching lives reflects a deep-rooted belief in the power of education and community engagement.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

At the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), we are dedicated to our mission of serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. As the largest executive branch agency in the state, our broad reach allows us to provide essential, community-based support where and when it matters most. Our DPHHS team is passionate about improving our clients’ lives and helping them build a more secure and independent future.

Funding Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals

Join us in a funded project and improve patient care, clinical outcomes, and staff knowledge. DPHHS has a wide variety of available grant opportunities for health improvement that fit any clinic or hospital work schedule. Interested in more than one? We can work with health systems to create an outline of activities to align grants and receive additional funding. 

Diabetes Funding Opportunities: Family Healthy Weight Program Implementation; DSMES-Accreditation Recognition; Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) QI Project; Diabetes Retinopathy QI Project; Diabetes Support Program- Walk With Ease Project; Access to Care Project; Diabetes Support Program Implementation

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) QI Project

Provide funding opportunities for healthcare professionals to work on a quality improvement project to increase access and improve screening for the early detection of diabetes retinopathy (DR).

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

At the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), we are dedicated to our mission of serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. As the largest executive branch agency in the state, our broad reach allows us to provide essential, community-based support where and when it matters most. Our DPHHS team is passionate about improving our clients’ lives and helping them build a more secure and independent future.

Funding Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals

Join us in a funded project and improve patient care, clinical outcomes, and staff knowledge. DPHHS has a wide variety of available grant opportunities for health improvement that fit any clinic or hospital work schedule. Interested in more than one? We can work with health systems to create an outline of activities to align grants and receive additional funding. 

Diabetes Funding Opportunities: Family Healthy Weight Program Implementation; DSMES-Accreditation Recognition; Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) QI Project; Diabetes Retinopathy QI Project; Diabetes Support Program- Walk With Ease Project; Access to Care Project; Diabetes Support Program Implementation.

Access to Care Project

Increase screening for health-related social needs and build partnerships to address health disparities. With a focus on patients who have diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

The Doyle Undergraduate Fellowship, offered by New Hampshire Sea Grant, provides a unique opportunity for undergraduates to engage in marine resource projects while receiving mentorship and training. This paid fellowship supports students interested in marine-related research and education, with potential earnings of up to $5,000 over a 10-week summer period. By participating, fellows gain valuable insights into coastal and marine management, enhancing their skills and expanding their professional networks.

The Therapeutic Giving initiative by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding programs in neuroscience aimed at enhancing patient access to treatments and promoting health equity. Nonprofit organizations classified as 501(c)(3) can apply for support from March 1 to May 31. The initiative emphasizes innovative, measurable programs in areas like Alzheimer’s disease and mental health, prioritizing those that address healthcare disparities and improve quality of life for affected individuals.

The Therapeutic Giving program from Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine aims to support local and regional organizations focused on improving patient access to treatment and advancing health equity. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, with funding preferences for programs that address significant healthcare disparities, mental health initiatives, and innovative solutions with measurable outcomes. The application period for local organizations runs from March 1 to May 31, while national organizations can apply in September.