Best Preservation Grants 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 Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

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

Homebuyer Assistance Programs

Commerce accepts applications for homebuyer downpayment assistance programs on a rolling basis. Grants covering a two-year period are awarded to eligible entities seeking to undertake homebuyer activities locally. HOME funds are used to provide subsidy to individual homebuyers and costs associated with administering the homebuyer program. Grantees determine maximum subsidies based on their local housing markets and targeted beneficiaries, and ensure that home purchase prices follow HUD-determined limits. Generally, 5% of HOME investments are matched.

NorthWestern Energy Community Works Grants aim to enhance community well-being in Montana, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The program supports qualified nonprofit organizations with monetary donations focused on education, health services, civic improvement, culture, and resource conservation. Since 2019, over $2.1 million has been contributed towards community projects. Eligible applicants must demonstrate tax-exempt status and proposals should favor funding for programs and physical improvements. National organizations and political activities are generally excluded.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Weeden Foundation Grant supports biodiversity conservation initiatives worldwide. It prioritizes projects that protect endangered species, restore habitats, and promote sustainable practices. The foundation funds 501(c)(3) organizations or their international equivalents, focusing on areas such as bird conservation, marine wildlife protection, and systemic support for environmental policies. Applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry four weeks before the application deadline, and the foundation does not fund multi-year grants or projects outside its focus areas.

The High Stakes Foundation Grant supports transformative initiatives in Montana, focusing on civic engagement, climate change solutions, economic development, and social justice. By providing general operating support to 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation aims to empower leaders and strengthen local communities. With an emphasis on sustainability and preserving public lands, this grant cultivates a vibrant, interconnected society committed to the health and prosperity of Montana. Organizations interested in applying must submit a letter of inquiry before the full proposal.

The Cross Charitable Foundation Grant provides support to organizations focused on education, homelessness, wildlife conservation, environmental protection, and the welfare of dogs. Only organizations invited by the Board can apply, with one application accepted per year from each organization. Grants are restricted to the North West United States, specifically Idaho, Utah, Montana, and Wyoming. Individuals are not eligible for funding, ensuring that support is directed towards effective community initiatives.

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.

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 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 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 National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The Ash Grove Charitable Foundation Grant supports public charities with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on capital projects that enhance community life in states where Ash Grove operates. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, education, and human services, the Foundation prioritizes funding for renovation and construction projects. Grants typically reach up to $25,000, aiming to foster better living standards and support local initiatives that are vital for community growth and resilience.

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 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 Thomas and Corinne Nyquist Foundation provides small grants to nonprofit organizations in New Paltz, NY, and Roosevelt County, MT, focusing on local initiatives. Established in 2004, the foundation prioritizes projects that serve the communities of Bainville, Culbertson, and Froid. Applicants must demonstrate how funds will be used and must be registered nonprofits or sponsored by one. Grants typically range from $500 to $2000, with a preference for new needs and organizations that have not previously received funding.

The Montana Trout Foundation aims to preserve and enhance Montana's wild trout resources through funding scientific research, education, and habitat enhancement. By promoting awareness of water quality and environmental preservation, the foundation supports projects that contribute to healthier fisheries and improved fishing experiences. Their grant program encourages initiatives that align with these goals, ensuring that the natural environment and trout habitats are maintained for future generations.

The Idaho and Montana Grant Program, managed by the Steele-Reese Foundation, focuses on supporting rural communities through educational, health, conservation, and arts initiatives. Grants are available exclusively to federally tax-exempt organizations serving these areas. The Foundation prioritizes projects that directly benefit low-income and underrepresented populations, emphasizing sustainable community development. Interested applicants should ensure their projects align with the Foundation's criteria, as only select proposals will be funded.

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.

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 William B. Pratt Endowment Fund supports Montana's Traditional and Folk Arts, encouraging storytelling and cultural preservation. Grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 promote community involvement in arts and media. Applicants are urged to leverage additional funding sources, ensuring a dollar-for-dollar match. Established by William B. Pratt, the fund honors his legacy in arts and philanthropy, aiming to elevate untold stories and traditional practices in Montana.

The Jerry Metcalf Foundation Grant, established in 1998, supports individuals and organizations in Montana with annual awards ranging from $25,000 to $50,000. The foundation funds projects that enhance the natural environment and diverse communities, focusing on the arts, historical preservation, environmental conservation, and community health. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, which must provide IRS verification. This grant is a vital resource for fostering cultural and environmental initiatives in Montana.

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 Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.