Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Montana

The Therapeutic Giving: Oncology program by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding initiatives that enhance patient access to treatments and services, promote health equity, and strengthen healthcare workforces. It supports programs that raise disease awareness, empower patients, and improve health systems with measurable outcomes. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, emphasizing innovative programs addressing healthcare disparities and unmet needs.

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.

Montana Department of Labor & Industry

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) is a state government organization that exists to uphold labor laws, ensure worker safety, and encourage business and employee growth and relations.

DLI accepts and investigates discrimination complaints, provides business support and education, and offers workers educational seminars, community resource centers, and job training.

WIOA Title II – Adult Education & Family Literacy Act Program Services

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (MTDLI), in compliance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), is seeking applications from experienced and qualified organizations to execute essential workforce development through the WIOA Title II - Adult Education and Family Literacy Program.

In doing so, the Department is seeking applicants who:

• Implement service delivery strategies that align with the 406 JOBS initiative and America's Talent Strategy, including: use of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship training models; training in Industry Recognized Credentials; employer engagement to ensure industry-driven strategies; and outreach to hard-to-reach populations.
• Coordinate with WIOA core partners.
• Deliver strong performance outcomes with respect to employment, wages, credential attainment, and skill gains.

Types of Awards

Adult Education Grant (AEFLA)-WIOA Section 231 funding

Corrections Education Grant-WIOA Section 225 funding

Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) Grant-WIOA Section 243 funding

Corrections Education and Other Education of Institutionalized Individuals (CE) (WIOA §225)

Provide educational programs for criminal offenders in correctional institutions with priority given to institutionalized individuals who are likely to leave the correctional facility within five years of participation in the program. Academic programs are to consist of:

• Adult education and literacy activities
• Special education
• Secondary school credit
• Integrated education and training
• Career pathways
• Concurrent enrollment
• Peer tutoring
• Transition to re-entry initiatives and other post-release services with the goal of reducing recidivism

The Charlotte Martin Foundation prioritizes funding for rural BIPOC organizations focused on youth programs, emphasizing education, athletics, and cultural expression for ages 6-18. Grants support initiatives that enhance access to diverse experiences, educational opportunities, and sports programs. The foundation is committed to addressing inequities in funding distribution, ensuring resources reach non-dominant communities. Organizations must be based in the Western states and demonstrate a commitment to racial equity and diversity in their leadership and programming.

The U.S. Healthcare Donations program by Amgen aims to support not-for-profit organizations in the healthcare sector. As a leading biotechnology company, Amgen provides funding for initiatives that improve science, technology, education, and public awareness on medical conditions. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt entities, focusing on genuine philanthropic efforts that align with Amgen's mission to enhance health outcomes and reduce the burden of diseases.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives that foster thriving communities through education, poverty solutions, and environmental programs. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities. Key areas include education development, innovative poverty solutions, and environmental restoration efforts, such as coastal wetland preservation. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least three months before funding is needed, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The NPS Project Implementation Grant, offered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, provides funding up to $50,000 for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution. Eligible applicants include government and non-government entities, with a 50% cost-share required for non-government entities. The grant supports initiatives that enhance water quality and improve natural water systems, ensuring the preservation of Montana's valuable water resources.

The Thornton S. Glide, Jr. and Katrina D. Glide Foundation provides grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in California that focus on animal protection, land conservancy, agriculture, and civic endeavors. Established in 1995, the foundation prioritizes grants for specific capital acquisitions and does not support operational costs or direct aid to individuals. Emphasizing local impact, California-based organizations are favored over out-of-state counterparts.

TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.

The Maine Cancer Foundation is seeking proposals for cancer screening initiatives aimed at early detection and prevention. This RFP focuses on screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung, prostate, and skin cancers. Proposals should align with evidence-based practices endorsed by the CDC and U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Interested applicants are encouraged to consult with MCF prior to submission to discuss project concepts and receive feedback on draft applications.

The Norm Winn Memorial Conservation Grant, managed by the Keta Legacy Foundation, supports conservation, preservation, and restoration projects in Alaska, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, and Eastern Washington. This competitive grant encourages non-profit organizations to apply for up to $25,000 to implement innovative environmental initiatives. Applicants must demonstrate project feasibility and significant community impact, while ensuring their proposals align with the Foundation's commitment to supporting diverse conservation efforts.

The Montana DNRC Hazardous Fuels Reduction Grant Program aims to mitigate the risk of wildland fires and protect communities in high-priority areas adjacent to National Forest System lands. Funded by USFS resources, this program supports projects that reduce hazardous fuels through various methods like thinning and burning. Eligible applicants include non-profits, local governments, and tribal entities. Projects must align geographically and be initiated within three years of planned USFS treatments, ensuring community safety and environmental stewardship.

Montana State University was founded February 16, 1893, as one of the nation's original land-grant colleges authorized by the landmark Morrill Act of 1862. Since then, MSU has been dedicated to the mission of education, research and outreach, providing access to life-changing higher education that has the potential to transform lives and communities.

College and Departmental Scholarships

Some of the colleges and departments at Montana State University offer scholarships to students. A limited number are available for incoming students. 

Robert E. Yoblonsky Student Leadership Scholarship

Required Qualifications:

• Pursuing a degree from the College of Arts and Architecture
• Participating in the College of Arts and Architecture Student Ambassador program
• Demonstrate financial need
• Sophomore, junior or senior status

Scopes: Architecture, Art, Arts and Architecture, Film and Photography, Music

The Montana Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant provides essential funding for Local Educational Agencies and community organizations to enhance academic enrichment opportunities for students during out-of-school time. With a minimum award of $50,000 per year for five years, this grant supports programs that reinforce regular academic activities and foster literacy and educational development, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for students and families in the community.

The Municipal Sewer Connections Grants, offered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, aim to protect water resources by funding projects that facilitate the transition from individual septic systems to municipal sewer connections. This program, which operates on a first-come, first-served basis, is designed to alleviate the financial burden of such transitions for homeowners, thereby promoting improved water quality and sustainability in Montana.

The Noxious Weed Trust Fund (NWTF) Grant Program, established in 1985 by the Montana Legislature, provides up to $75,000 for noxious weed management programs. It supports local cooperative projects, research, and educational initiatives aimed at effective weed control. Eligible applicants must collaborate with organizations such as county and tribal weed districts. Grant funds cannot be used for administrative costs or equipment purchases, ensuring focus on impactful weed management efforts across Montana.

The Volunteer Monitoring Lab Analysis Support Grant Program by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) offers financial assistance up to $5,000 for volunteer monitoring programs. This funding covers laboratory sample analysis and shipping costs related to water quality projects. Applicants must submit a Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) and an analytical budget. DEQ emphasizes the importance of volunteer contributions to water quality monitoring and supports educational efforts across Montana's watersheds.

The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource management.

The Future Fisheries Improvement Grant Program, managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, aims to restore and enhance wild fish habitats in Montana's rivers, streams, and lakes. With annual funding between $500,000 and $650,000, the program supports diverse projects that benefit native fish populations. Eligible applicants include landowners, civic groups, and government agencies. Projects must improve fish habitats and ensure public benefits while adhering to landowner agreements and respecting adjacent property rights.

The WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation aims to enhance water supply reliability through cooperative funding and support for desalination facilities. This program aligns with federal priorities to improve energy and resource management, encouraging proposals that diversify local water sources. By focusing on innovative solutions to water scarcity, the initiative promotes sustainable water management practices, especially for growing communities facing water shortages.

The WNAN Natural History Research Grant supports research in biological natural history within western North America. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for five authors to assist with travel, supplies, and other research-related expenses. This initiative particularly encourages applicants from institutions where research is not the primary focus, aiming to foster diverse contributions to natural history.

The WKKF Grant, offered by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is dedicated to fostering a future where every child and family thrives. With a focus on nurturing early education, accessible healthcare, and equitable food systems, this grant supports initiatives that empower communities across the U.S. and parts of Mexico and Haiti. Organizations meeting IRS regulations and being legal entities, particularly 501(c)(3) nonprofits, are encouraged to apply for funding to create lasting impacts in their communities.

The Greater Montana Foundation offers a Commercial Grant aimed at supporting time-sensitive news and public affairs programming. Founded by E.B. Craney in 1958, the foundation prioritizes projects addressing critical issues such as jobs, healthcare, and education. Grants are available year-round for urgent matters that arise unexpectedly and must be accessible to Montana media outlets, schools, and libraries. This initiative reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing commercial broadcasting and informing future generations.

The NACD Technical Assistance Grants program, in partnership with NRCS, has been enhancing conservation district support since 2018. By funding staff hires, it aims to improve service for agricultural producers and address conservation workload challenges. The initiative focuses on outreach, education, and civic engagement to empower local communities, promote sustainability, and support historically underserved producers in implementing conservation practices, thereby fostering both individual and community resilience.

Economic Development Grants

Montana’s CDBG Economic Development Program is designed to stimulate economic development activity by assisting Montana’s private sector to create or retain jobs for LMI Montanans. Specifically, this includes individuals earning less than 80% of the area median income.

The program can assist businesses by awarding grants to local governments and making fixed-rate financing available to those businesses at low interest rates. In addition, the program can offer payment deferrals, lower first-year payments, and interest-only payments.

Businesses work with local governments to apply to the program, and the local government then loans to an eligible business or grants to a nonprofit. CDBG-ED funds are intended to be used in situations where a funding gap exists and alternative sources of public and private financing are not adequate.

The focus of the program is to support the creation or retention of full-time permanent jobs for Montanans. Loan amounts are based on the number of employees a business will retain or the number of new positions to be created. Loan terms are determined according to the use of funds and the businesses financial position. The business must ensure that at least 51% of the jobs are made available to, or held by, individuals earning less than 80% of the area median income.

The Reclamation and Development Grants Program (RDGP) Planning Grants support projects aimed at restoring environmental damage caused by non-renewable resource extraction. Funded by the state, these grants assist local governments in planning projects that repair, reclaim, and mitigate ecological harm, ensuring the sustainability of public resources. Grant amounts vary by project type, with funding available for reclamation, drought management, and hazard mitigation, reflecting a commitment to preserving Montana's natural heritage.

This grant assists eligible adults seeking to enter or re-enter the workforce, improve occupational skills, or advance in their careers.