Best Local Government Grants in Montana

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 Community Development Block Grant Housing Stabilization Program (HSP) in Montana provides essential funding for housing rehabilitation projects aimed at low- and moderate-income households. Grants are available on a rolling basis to local governments collaborating with nonprofit organizations. There is no maximum grant amount, and funds are allocated based on project needs. Successful applicants can access funds for five years to improve housing conditions and foster community development.

The Livingston Community Trust Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Park County, Montana, through self-sustaining projects that focus on economic development, education, human services, and the arts. Applications are welcome from non-profit organizations, local governments, and civic bodies. The Trust encourages innovative ideas and requires a minimum 10% matching contribution from grantees. Grant decisions are made quarterly, with responses provided within 90 days of application submission.

The NorthWestern Energy Impact Analysis Grant Program offers funding for cities, counties, economic development organizations, and non-profits in Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Grant applications are simple, requiring a one-page form, with decisions made within 48 hours. The program aims to assess the economic impacts of local businesses and development projects. Circle Analytics will provide detailed reports on the economic footprint, including job creation and community benefits, to support informed decision-making.

The Residential Septic System Education & Maintenance Program, initiated by the Western Montana Conservation Commission, aims to enhance water quality in Western Montana by reducing pollutants from septic systems. This program provides grants for education, outreach, and best practices in septic maintenance. Eligible applicants include government entities and non-profits that meet specific criteria. Projects must focus on outreach, education, and community involvement to foster long-term behavior change regarding septic system care and water quality preservation.

SITKA Ecosystem Grants support projects that enhance ecosystems and promote conservation efforts. These grants encourage both grassroots initiatives and larger organizational projects, aiming to improve habitat restoration, biodiversity, and the hunting experience. With funding ranging from $3,000 to $20,000, applicants must be 18 years or older and have relevant experience. The review process is ongoing, and projects should emphasize collaboration and measurable impacts on environmental goals, benefiting both society and ecosystems.

The NRA Foundation: Montana Grants provides funding for charitable purposes aligned with its mission, primarily focusing on promoting firearms safety, education, and marksmanship. Eligible organizations must hold a Federal Employer Identification Number and can include IRS 501(c)(3) entities, government bodies, or state-recognized nonprofits. Ineligible applicants include labor organizations, private enterprises, and individuals. The Foundation emphasizes public benefit in funded projects, ensuring they contribute positively to the community.

The Impact Fund provides recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits and small law firms working on social, environmental, and economic justice issues. With over $10 million awarded since 1992, the fund supports impactful litigation addressing systemic injustices. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and prioritize cases directly involving affected communities. Recipients must repay the grant amount with interest if they recover fees or costs, ensuring sustainability for future funding.

About the Montana Department of Commerce

Every day, staff at Commerce work alongside private industry and local organizations to create jobs, grow businesses, provide affordable housing and improve community infrastructure.

The economy of the Treasure State continues to grow and diversify. Studies rank Montana as the number one place in the country to start a business. Plus, our workforce has earned some of the highest rankings in both trade and technical skills by having one of the highest STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) concentrations in the country.

Public and Community Facilities

Public and Community Facility Grants

Montana's CDBG Public and Community Facilities grants help local governments fund construction or rehabilitation of infrastructure and facilities that primarily benefit low- to moderate-income (LMI) Montanans, i.e. individuals earning less than 80% of the area median income. These projects can target LMI residents and provide direct benefits by improving or creating access to suitable living environments or necessary services, or these projects can provide an area-wide benefit to the entire community as long as at least 51% of the project’s beneficiaries are determined to be LMI. 

Certain projects such as senior centers, food banks, homeless shelters, youth homes, or head start centers are presumed to serve a limited clientele that is primarily LMI. Therefore, determining exactly what percent of project beneficiaries qualify as LMI is not required. Other projects, such as a wastewater improvements or water treatment improvements provide benefits to the entire community and are considered to have area-wide benefit because both LMI and non-LMI residents are served. Therefore, applicants must document at least 51% of the project’s beneficiaries qualify as LMI for projects considered to have an area-wide benefit.

The MCF Community Investment Program (CIP) supports innovative projects that enhance the quality of life in Rosebud, Custer, and Fallon County, Montana. Established by Grid United, this program aims to partner with local communities, encouraging projects that address community needs and leverage additional support. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, while ineligible projects include one-time events and general operating expenses. Grants must benefit the specified counties.

The WCF Community Emergency Response Fund Grant provides vital support for nonprofits in Flathead County facing unexpected emergencies. This flexible funding enables organizations to address immediate repairs essential for continued program delivery. Eligible applicants include 501(C)(3) nonprofits and government entities, with no maximum request amount specified. The foundation prioritizes urgent needs, ensuring that essential services remain operational during crises, while ineligible projects include recurring expenses and completed initiatives.

The Colstrip Impacts Foundation: Tax Base Supplement Grant aims to mitigate tax revenue shortfalls caused by the closure of Colstrip power plants. This funding is crucial for taxing districts and local governments affected by these changes, ensuring they can maintain essential services without imposing additional tax burdens on residents. The grant supports economic development and assists impacted workers, fostering community resilience during this transitional period.

The Seeley Lake Community Foundation (SLCF) offers the SLCF Community Grant Programs to support local initiatives that enhance the quality of life in Seeley Lake, MT. The foundation prioritizes projects in education, arts, community development, natural resources, and basic human needs. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and serve the community directly. The SLCF values proposals with broad community impact and strong partnerships, making it an ideal opportunity for collaborative projects.

The Montana Urban and Community Forestry program offers grants aimed at enhancing community forests' health. These grants support local governments in developing urban forestry programs through various projects such as tree inventory, urban forest management plans, and strategic tree planting. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, non-profits, and tribal governments in Montana. The program encourages innovative projects that promote biodiversity, climate change education, and workforce development, ensuring sustainable urban forestry practices.

The Emerging Justice Fund Grant, offered by Social Justice Fund Northwest, aims to support grassroots organizing in communities affected by systemic injustices. With a funding cycle starting in February, the grant prioritizes organizations led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Eligible groups can apply for a one-year grant of $10,000, with a final deadline of September 12th. This initiative emphasizes unrestricted funding to empower marginalized communities and foster long-term social justice solutions.

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 Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County Grant supports nonprofit projects enhancing community welfare in Forsyth, Angela, Ingomar, and Rosebud. It prioritizes areas like youth education, healthcare, and emergency services. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities. Projects must demonstrate local support and sustainability, while the foundation does not fund conferences, planning, or routine operational costs. This competitive grant aims to improve quality of life and foster community development.

The Community Foundation of Northern Rosebud County offers the Signature Community Impact Grant, supporting projects that enhance the quality of life for residents in Forsyth, Angela, Ingomar, and Rosebud. Grants, up to $10,000, require significant community support and partnerships, with a focus on sustainability and addressing local needs. The granting process is competitive, emphasizing collaborations and in-kind contributions, and applicants must be a qualified non-profit or government entity.

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 Valley County Masonic Endowment, established by the Nemont Manor Foundation, Inc. and managed by the Montana Community Foundation, offers grants of up to $5,000 to support local nonprofit and government entities. These grants aim to enhance community projects in areas such as arts, education, and economic development within Valley County, ensuring a positive impact on local residents. Nonprofits outside Valley County can apply, fostering broader community support.

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

Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) (WIOA §243(a))

Prepare adults who are English language learners for, and place such adults in, unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries and occupations that lead to economic self-sufficiency and funds are specifically designed to provide IELCE services in combination with Integrated Education and Training (IET), allowable under WIOA Sec. 243.

• Prepare adults who are English language learners for, and place such adults in, unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries and occupations that lead to economic self-sufficiency
• Integrate with the local workforce development system and its functions to carry out the activities of the program
• Workforce preparation activities
• Workforce training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster
• Integrated education and training that: Provides adult education and literacy activities, concurrently and contextually with both workforce preparation activities and workforce training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster.

The TourWest Grants, funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, aim to support presenters and organizations in the Western region by providing flexible funding for touring artists. This competitive grant encourages community engagement and outreach, fostering collaboration between artists and local communities. It prioritizes accessibility to the performing arts, especially in underserved areas. Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or local government units and demonstrate a commitment to community needs through their projects.

The Land & Water Conservation Fund Recreation Grants, administered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, support outdoor recreation projects through matching grants to state, tribal, and local entities. Since 1964, over 800 projects have been funded, enhancing public parks, trails, and recreational facilities. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and state agencies, while a 50% non-federal match is required. The program fosters community engagement in outdoor activities and conservation efforts.

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.

Community Development Block Grant Housing

Montana's CDBG Housing grants help local governments fund primarily the rehabilitation of single-family or multi-family housing projects that benefit low- to moderate-income Montanans, i.e., households earning less than 80% of the area median income. CDBG offers two distinct types of housing grants:

• The competitive CDBG Affordable Housing Development and Rehabilitation Grant, for which applications are accepted every fall, and
• The CDBG Housing Stabilization Program, for which applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

CDBG Affordable Housing Development and Rehabilitation Grant

This grant is intended primarily for the rehabilitation of affordable housing projects. Typically, these housing projects are multi-family rental projects in which CDBG fills a funding gap.

The cities of Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, and Missoula are entitlement communities and are not eligible for state CDBG funds, as they receive a CDBG allocation directly from HUD.

The Mignon Waterman Award honors individuals who demonstrate innovation, leadership, partnership development, and significant progress in enhancing behavioral health in Montana. Established to celebrate Mignon Waterman's dedication to public service and mental health advocacy, this award provides a $10,000 grant to organizations nominating eligible candidates. Only Montana-based nonprofits, universities, state or local agencies, or Tribal governments can submit nominations. This award aims to recognize and support efforts that improve mental health services across the state.

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.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in Montana support qualified organizations in facilitating local self-help housing projects. These grants enable very-low- and low-income families to construct their homes with guidance and technical assistance. Eligible areas can be verified through the USDA Eligibility Site, and funds can be utilized for recruiting families and providing necessary supervision and assistance throughout the housing construction process.