March 2025
 

Letter from Kacie, Executive VP, Finance & Administration 

Dear Friends,

March marks a time of renewal in Montana, not just in the changing of the seasons, but in the power of philanthropy. Earlier this month, the Montana Community Foundation (MCF) initiated our annual endowment distribution, granting $5.6 million to nonprofit organizations across the state. These funds provide essential support for local programs, scholarships, and community initiatives, ensuring a lasting impact for generations to come.

Endowments are a powerful commitment to Montana’s future. Unlike one-time gifts, these funds are held in perpetuity, growing over time while generating annual distributions that sustain the missions of organizations across our state. This year’s distributions will help organizations provide critical services, expand opportunities, and strengthen local communities—making a meaningful difference in the lives of Montanans.

We are honored to partner with more than 800 organizations benefiting from this year’s distribution. Whether your organization has an established endowment with MCF or is the recipient of a donor’s generosity, your work is at the heart of building stronger, more resilient communities. The generosity of our donors and the dedication of our partners ensure that Montana’s future remains bright.

Thank you for all you do to serve our state. Together, we are creating a lasting legacy, one that benefits Montana today, tomorrow, and forever.

Sincerely,

Introducing Our Podcast: Impact Under the Big Sky

We’re bringing Montana’s philanthropic stories to life in a whole new way! MCF is proud to launch our podcast, Impact Under the Big Sky: Stories of Philanthropy in Montana. Through this series, we’ll share the inspiring work of donors, nonprofits, and changemakers who are making a lasting impact in communities across the state.

The podcast kicks off this month with an introductory episode with Mary Rutherford, President and CEO. On March 8, International Women’s Day, we dropped an episode featuring the Women’s Foundation of Montana and several of their incredible grantees: Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies, Bridgercare, and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Montana.

We can’t wait for you to tune in! Follow Impact Under the Big Sky on your favorite podcast platform and on our YouTube page. You can now be a part of the conversation about philanthropy’s power to shape Montana’s future.

Stay tuned—this is just the beginning!

Podcast Episodes

Support Indigenous Students in Crisis

For many Indigenous college students in Montana, a single unexpected expense; like a car repair, medical bill, or overdue rent—can mean the difference between staying in school and dropping out. The Indigenous Student Rapid Assistance Fund provides immediate financial relief to students facing urgent hardships, ensuring they can continue their education without disruption.

Your support makes this possible. A gift to this fund offers direct, life-changing assistance when students need it most. With applications reviewed year-round and funds typically distributed within 1–2 days, your donation has an immediate impact. Give today to help Indigenous students overcome financial obstacles and stay on the path to success.

Scholarship Applications Close on Monday, March 31, 2025

Most MCF scholarship applications close on Monday, March 31, 2025. With a variety of scholarships available for students attending four-year and two-year colleges, vocational programs, certificate courses, and opportunities for non-traditional students, there’s something for many paths of study.

Not sure which scholarships you qualify for? Take our scholarship eligibility quiz at mtcf.org to find the best fit and apply today!

Otto Bremer Trust Community Responsive Fund

As a trusted partner to the Otto Bremer Trust the Montana Community Foundation (MCF) will grant out $1.5 Million to Montana organizations from the Otto Bremer Trust Community Responsive Fund. The pre-application for the Otto Bremer Trust Community Responsive Fund application will be open April 1 through May 15, 2025.

Learn more about updated eligibility requirements and the 2025 funding criteria here.

Charles L. and Polly Anceney Gallatin Valley Fund Announcement

The Montana Community Foundation will start accepting applications for the Charles L. and Polly Anceney Gallatin Valley Fund on April 1, 2025, supporting conservation efforts in the Gallatin Valley. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 will be awarded to projects that align with key conservation priorities, including biodiversity conservation, habitat restoration, sustainable land and water management, and public access. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and government agencies working within Gallatin, Park, Madison, and Meagher Counties. Strong consideration will be given to projects that demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities.

The application cycle opens on April 1, 2025, and closes on May 30, 2025. All applications must be submitted online. Selected projects will receive funding for program or operational support, with final awards based on the scope and impact of the proposed work. A project report will be required within one year of receiving funds. Learn more about the fund here.

MCF Open Grant Cycles

• Women’s Foundation of Montana - Grants to serve women and their families in Montana communities and align with WFM's Vision, Mission, and Values. Closes April 7, 2025.
• Community Investment Program – Grants to support communities in Rosebud, Custer, and Fallon County. Closes May 1, 2025.
• Reimaging Rural – To support projects, programs, or initiatives that result from ideas learned during the Reimagining Rural Virtual Gathering. Closes March 31, 2025.
• William B Pratt Endowment – Grants to benefit Montana Indigenous, Folk, Traditional, and Media arts. Closes April 1, 2025.
• Valley County Masonic Endowment – Grants to benefit communities and residents of Valley County. Closes March 31, 2025.

LCFs Driving Change in Their Towns – Webinar

Are you curious to learn more about what other LCFs are up to outside of fundraising and grantmaking? If so, join us to hear about how LCFs are stepping up to the plate with transportation, childcare, housing, and so much more.

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