Best Volunteer Grants in Montana

The Broadwater County Development Corporation offers a Marketing Grant aimed at promoting events that boost economic development in Broadwater County. This initiative encourages local organizations to attract visitors, thereby supporting local businesses. Grants are available for up to $500 for BCDC members and $250 for non-members. Eligible applicants must be based in Broadwater County, and the event must be held in the same area. This program is essential for enhancing community engagement and economic vitality.

The Gianforte Family Foundation offers Church & School Outreach Grants to empower local Christian churches and schools in Montana. With grants of up to $3,300, the foundation aims to strengthen community outreach through programs that share the Gospel, support families, promote economic flourishing, and provide recovery tools. Eligible applicants must be Christian organizations actively engaging their communities with innovative programs that align with their ministry philosophy.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The First Security Bank Foundation is dedicated to giving back to the communities it serves. As part of the Glacier Bank family, it leverages its resources to provide substantial donations and sponsorships to local organizations. Their commitment is evident in the active involvement of employees who lead and volunteer throughout the area. Organizations interested in support are encouraged to apply, ensuring a thoughtful review process for each request. This foundation exemplifies the spirit of community investment.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

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.

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 Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Emergency Medical Services Grant Program, established in Montana in 2009, aims to enhance prehospital emergency medical services by providing competitive grants to certified emergency medical service providers. Funding can be used for acquiring ambulances, purchasing essential equipment, and supporting training and communication needs. This program addresses the challenges faced by rural providers and ensures that they can continue to deliver critical medical care, ultimately improving public safety and health outcomes in emergency situations.

The Broadwater Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Broadwater County through charitable projects. Established in 1993, the foundation supports local initiatives with a cash matching requirement and prioritizes long-term benefits for residents. Eligible projects must be led by committed leaders and serve community needs. Ineligible projects include conferences, planning efforts, or those benefiting individuals directly. The foundation values community support and sustainable funding for impactful initiatives.

The Greater Polson Community Foundation's GPCF: Impact Grants aim to foster a vibrant community by supporting organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the Greater Polson area. Since 2009, over $1 million has been awarded to enhance community welfare and diverse projects. With a focus on health, education, creativity, and prosperity, these grants empower local initiatives to thrive and make a meaningful impact on residents' lives.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Montana Snowmobile Program Grant supports snowmobile clubs in maintaining safe trails and promoting winter recreation. This initiative funds trail grooming, equipment purchases, and safety education, benefiting over 4,000 miles of trails managed by Montana State Parks. Grants, typically under $20,000, aim to enhance trail safety and accessibility for motorized enthusiasts. Clubs must coordinate with land management agencies for proposals, ensuring sustainable trail use and community engagement in snowmobiling activities.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Bishop Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports students admitted to the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate an interest in entrepreneurship. Preference is given to those involved in relevant clubs or community service. This scholarship aims to empower future leaders and innovators, enhancing the educational experience at MSU while contributing positively to society.

The David and Tanya Cameron Excellence in Business Scholarship at Montana State University supports students pursuing a degree in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This scholarship encourages involvement in community projects and JJCBE organized clubs, fostering leadership and engagement. As part of MSU's commitment to transformative education since 1893, this scholarship enhances opportunities for incoming students to excel in their academic and professional journeys.

The Forestry Division's Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant, administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, provides essential funding to rural fire departments. This program supports training, equipping, and organizing efforts to enhance fire response capabilities in rural communities. By offering cost-share grants, the initiative aims to strengthen local fire departments, ensuring they are well-prepared to protect lives and property from wildfires and other emergencies. Participation is encouraged, benefiting all counties in Montana.

The Gus and Niki Gnehm Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees while actively volunteering with the Eagle Mount Ski Program. This scholarship reflects MSU's commitment to education, research, and community outreach, aiming to transform lives through higher education. Limited scholarships are available for incoming students, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and academic achievement.

The Bob Arrotta Student Mentorship Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports full-time students pursuing degrees from the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and mentorship. Preference is given to students from rural Montana communities or those with family ties to Pepsi employees. This scholarship aims to enrich the graduate experience by fostering student success through mentorship and support.

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 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 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.

The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Program, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service, provides essential funding for rural fire departments. Administered by the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, this program supports training, equipment, and organization efforts to enhance firefighting capabilities. Authorized by the Cooperative Forestry Assistance Act of 1990, the VFC grant plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of communities facing wildfires and other emergencies across Montana.