Best Grants for Rural Development in Montana

Rural-focused 501(c)(3) organizations and public entities in Montana and nearby Native nations can seek project funding for education, human and social services, conservation, health, and arts. Steele-Reese Foundation supports rural development in Montana by offering US $5,000 - US $50,000 grants, with priority for modest, practical projects that show strong local engagement.

Individuals actively leading searches for missing loved ones in Montana can receive up to US $1,000 to cover direct search-related costs. With a mission to strengthen communities, Montana Community Foundation provides support for expenses like travel, equipment, communications, and community awareness efforts, which may benefit rural development and safety in Montana communities.

With a mission to strengthen rural communities, nonprofits, businesses, and some individuals in Montana can receive US $500 - US $5,000 to support community-based projects. The Red Ants Pants Foundation funds operating, program, and some capital efforts that enrich rural life, especially those advancing women’s leadership and working family farms and ranches.

Eligible rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in Montana can apply for USDA Rural Development’s Rural Business Development Grants, awarding US $10,000 - US $500,000 for technical assistance, training, and infrastructure that benefit small rural businesses. Funding can support community and technology-based economic development, revolving loan funds, incubators, transportation, and long-term strategic planning for rural development.

Public bodies, community-based nonprofits, and federally recognized Tribes in rural Montana can use this program to purchase, construct, or improve essential community facilities and related equipment. USDA Rural Development provides graduated grant assistance for projects in smaller, lower-income communities serving needs like health care, public safety, education, community services, utilities, and local food systems.

Nonprofits and local governments in rural Montana communities under 30,000 residents can seek funding to run a two-year, resident-driven community engagement and development process. With a mission to build stronger communities, Montana Community Foundation provides up to US $20,000 plus coaching to support coordinators, outreach activities, and local rural development priorities.

Nonprofit organizations improving rural communities in Montana and other western states can request $500 to $2,500 for capital projects such as facilities, equipment, or infrastructure upgrades. Focused on rural development, AgWest Farm Credit invites applicants with partial project funding and a letter of support from a current employee or active customer.

Grants from Rural Climate Partnership help Montana rural development organizations implement locally led, equitable climate solutions in small towns and rural areas. Eligible applicants include rural-based nonprofits, public agencies, religious organizations, tribal governments, and national groups with a clear rural focus. Awards range from US $20,000 - US $150,000 for project or general operating support across rural America.

Very small, financially distressed rural communities in Montana can use this program for feasibility studies, preliminary design, and technical assistance for proposed water and waste disposal infrastructure projects. Focused on rural development, USDA: Rural Development (RD) supports state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes with predevelopment planning for essential public facilities.

Grants from USDA NIFA help Montana rural development organizations establish and operate centers that provide technical assistance to cooperatives and mutually owned rural businesses. Eligible U.S. nonprofits can apply for up to US $1,000,000 to start, expand, or improve rural cooperatives and create jobs through value-added processing and business development.

Nonprofits, TDHEs, and federally recognized tribes working on rural affordable housing and community or economic development can receive direct technical assistance in Montana and other rural areas. With a mission to strengthen rural communities, Housing Assistance Council provides customized OneRural support to build capacity, improve programs, and implement best practices for long-term rural development impact.

Montana rural development and community-focused REALTOR associations can access funding for studies, events, and public outreach on rural issues through the National Association of Realtors’ Level 2 Rural Outreach Grant, with awards up to US $7,500. Eligible uses include instructor or consultant fees, venue rental, refreshments, and marketing or education materials.

Rural development organizations and REALTOR associations in Montana can use this grant to educate REALTORS about rural issues through trainings and events. Focused on rural development, the National Association of Realtors invites state and local REALTOR associations to seek up to US $3,000 for instructor fees, venues, refreshments, and outreach materials, via reimbursement.

Rural Montana organizations addressing community health issues can apply for Montana Healthcare Foundation’s Rural Health Small Grants, with awards up to US $10,000. With a mission to strengthen rural health and quality of life, the foundation supports projects such as mental health, housing, food access, child or elder care, public health, or cultural connection.

The Powering Affordable Reliable Technology (PART) Energy Program, managed by the Rural Utilities Service, seeks Letters of Interest for loan applications to fund renewable energy generation and energy storage projects. With approximately $410 million available from the Inflation Reduction Act, the program offers up to 75% financing for project costs, along with potential loan forgiveness options. This initiative aims to enhance energy infrastructure in rural areas, promoting sustainable energy solutions.

Public bodies, tribes, and other nonprofit community-based systems in Montana affected by 2022 presidentially declared disasters can apply for USDA: Rural Utilities Service Disaster Water Grants to repair and strengthen water infrastructure systems. Funding supports drinking water, wastewater, solid waste, and stormwater projects, helping rural communities rebuild capacity and improve long-term resiliency.

The Citizens' Institute on Rural Design (CIRD), a partnership between the National Endowment for the Arts and the Housing Assistance Council, invites rural communities to apply for design support. CIRD aims to enhance rural life and economic viability through planning and creative placemaking, empowering local citizens to address unique community challenges. Opportunities include Local Design Workshops and a Design Learning Cohort, providing resources, training, and support to foster community-driven solutions.

The Community Heart & Soul Seed Grant Program offers $10,000 in startup funding for community-driven groups in small towns to adopt the Community Heart & Soul model. Applications are accepted until 11:59 p.m. EST on the last business day of each month, with funding decisions made the following month. This initiative aims to empower residents to engage in local development and foster community connections.

The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) - Community Systems Development aims to enhance behavioral health systems in rural areas by providing funding for the development and expansion of services. This initiative supports the establishment of formalized networks to boost operational and clinical capacity, ensuring effective implementation of evidence-based substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery services tailored to community needs.

The FRS Community Grant Program supports rural communities served by NTCA members, offering grants up to $5,000 for various local initiatives. Priority is given to projects that promote economic development, education, health, and public service. Eligible applicants must secure a 10% match of the grant amount requested. Ineligible projects include overhead expenses, individuals, and those without secured funding. FRS aims to foster sustainable and engaged rural communities through these efforts.

The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program - Evaluation aims to assess the effectiveness of behavioral health strategies in rural settings. By developing evaluation tools and resources, this initiative seeks to empower local communities in their health initiatives, ensuring that future programs are informed by comprehensive evaluations. Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, the program highlights the importance of tailored approaches to address opioid-related challenges in rural areas.

The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program - Overdose Response aims to enhance healthcare access in rural areas by addressing urgent needs related to substance use disorder services. This initiative focuses on reducing overdose risks through targeted interventions and support, ensuring that rural communities receive necessary assistance. Funded by the Health Resources and Services Administration, this program is crucial for mitigating the opioid crisis in underserved regions, improving health outcomes, and promoting overall community well-being.

The Inspire Grants for Small Museums (2027) initiative, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, aims to empower small museums across various disciplines. This program focuses on project-based funding to enhance public service through educational programs, exhibits, and community partnerships. By supporting small, often underfunded institutions, Inspire seeks to strengthen their capacity to engage communities and improve collections management, fostering experiential learning and discovery.

The Community Connect Grants Program provides financial assistance to eligible applicants aiming to deliver broadband services in rural areas where access is limited. This initiative fosters economic growth and enhances educational, healthcare, and public safety benefits, improving the quality of life in underserved communities. By supporting projects that create better market opportunities and promote equitable access, the program plays a vital role in advancing rural development and addressing environmental justice.

The Advancing Equity Through Oral Health Funds, initiated by CareQuest Institute, seeks to transform oral health systems by supporting projects that dismantle disparities faced by marginalized communities. The program encourages organizations to propose innovative solutions that enhance access to dental care, engage community voices, and promote policies that ensure equitable health outcomes for all. This initiative aims to create a more integrated and accessible healthcare system, particularly for historically underserved populations.