The Community Investment Program (CIP) was established at the Montana Community Foundation by Grid United. CIP supports communities in Rosebud, Custer, and Fallon County, where Grid United’s North Plains Connector, a transmission line connecting U.S. eastern and western electric grids in Montana and North Dakota, will be located. Grid United is dedicated to partnering with these communities; as a result, CIP funds support innovative projects that enhance quality of life while strengthening communities in this corner of Eastern Montana.

The program will open on April 14, 2023. CIP has two application cycles each year. In 2023, the first application deadline is Thursday, June 1 and the second deadline is Wednesday, November 1.

Applicants must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit or government entity, such as a local government, tribal government, or school district. Non-501(c)(3) nonprofits may be eligible; please contact Taylor Crowl at (406) 603-4913 or taylor@mtcf.org to discuss eligibility. Individuals and for-profits are ineligible; however, individuals and for-profits may apply through a fiscal sponsor that is eligible. Applicants that have applied for previous grant cycles may apply for subsequent grant cycles for different phases of their project. Applicants do not need to be based in Rosebud, Custer, or Fallon County, however, grants must be used for projects benefiting communities in these counties. Only one application is allowed per organization.

Grants will be up to $50,000. For funding needs greater than $50,000, please contact Taylor Crowl at (406) 603-4913 or taylor@mtcf.org.

CIP will grant to projects that:

• Have a broad impact on the quality of life for a significant number of people in Rosebud, Custer, or Fallon County.
• Propose ways to address community issues and problems.
• Leverage other sources of support.
• Encourage other to get involved in addressing community needs.
• Are creative in their approach to solving problems or capturing opportunities.
• Are responsive to changing and emerging needs.
• Support innovative approaches to economic and community development.

See the full guidelines here.