Foundation News
September Infinity 2025
September 25, 2025
September 2025
Letter from Mary
Dear Friends,
At the Montana Community Foundation, impact is at the heart of everything we do. This fall we are seeing just how powerful philanthropy can be when it is focused, intentional, and deeply connected to the communities it serves.
Right now, several of our community grant cycles are open, from Blaine County to Colstrip, funding projects that address local needs and create opportunities where they’re needed most. At the same time, the Women’s Foundation of Montana is putting historic levels of funding into programs that support women, girls, and families. Together, these efforts represent the heart of what we do at MCF: connect people who care with causes that matter.
And there’s even more good news to come. Last week, we dedicated our building as the Siegel Giving Center. A name that reflects a legacy of generosity and service that has shaped philanthropy in Montana for decades. Stay tuned, in the coming weeks, we’ll share more about the Siegels’ story and what this new space will mean for local community foundations and nonprofits across the state.
Montana is stronger because of the generosity of people like you. Thank you for partnering with us to build resources that will benefit our communities for generations to come. Together, we are shaping Montana’s future through giving.
Sincerely,
WFM Grantee Announcement
On August 26, the Women’s Foundation of Montana (WFM)celebrated Women’s Equality Day and shared some big news: in 2025, WFM awarded more than $700,000 in grants to 42 organizations across the state, nearly doubling our grantmaking from last year!
This record investment was made possible by our supporters, who believe in the power of gender equity to shape a brighter future for Montana. Nationally, less than 2% of philanthropic dollars go to women and girls, and even less reaches rural and Indigenous communities. WFM is working to change that by moving resources directly where they are most needed.
The WFM 2025 grantees are expanding access to reproductive and maternal health care, supporting survivors of violence, building leadership skills for women and girls, and creating economic opportunities statewide. From the Hi-Line to the Beartooth Mountains, these organizations are transforming lives and strengthening communities.
Follow us on Facebook in the coming months as we highlight their incredible work, and show what happens when women’s philanthropy steps up to ensure that women, girls, and families in Montana aren’t left behind.
Community Grant Cycles
Blaine County Grant Cycle
Deadline to Apply: October 15, 2025
Blaine County Community Foundation Fund grants must be used for projects benefiting communities or residents in Blaine County, the grantee organization does not need to be based in Blaine County. Only one application is allowed per organization.
Eligible projects must provide a direct benefit to residents, be sustainable, and address important, unmet needs. Ineligible projects include conferences, workshops, planning, research, untested projects, and partisan or sectarian activities.
Grants will range in size from $500 to $2,000.
Learn more and apply for a grant now.
The Montana Mental Health Access Fund
Deadline to Apply: October 15, 2025
The Montana Community Foundation (MCF) is offering grants of up to $10,000 through the Montana Mental Health Access Fund to expand mental health services for Indigenous communities. Open from September 1 to October 15, 2025, the fund supports innovative projects that increase access to mental health care on Reservations.
Eligible projects should address barriers to care, leverage technology like telehealth, and provide services at no cost to patients. The goal is to support sustainable, evidence-based solutions that improve mental health access where other resources are lacking.
For questions about the Montana Mental Health Access Fund, please contact MCF at (406) 443-8313 or grants@mtcf.org.
To apply or learn more about the Montana Mental Health Access Fund here.
Cut Bank Community Foundation
Deadline to Apply: September 28, 2025
The Cut Bank Community Foundation (CBCF) is ready to help them grow. CBCF has opened its 2025 grant cycle, inviting local nonprofits, community groups, and government entities to apply for funding that strengthens Cut Bank and creates lasting opportunities for residents.
Applications are open now through Sept. 28. Grants begin at $500 and are available for community projects or programs.
CBCF welcomes applications from eligible nonprofits, government entities, and organizations working with a fiscal sponsor. Funding is reserved for project and program- based efforts; requests for operating expenses, political or religious activities, or individual needs are not eligible.
Find the guidelines and application here.
Colstrip Impacts Foundation
Deadline to Apply: September 30, 2025
The Colstrip Impacts Foundation is accepting applications for its current grant cycle! The next deadline is September 30.
These grants are designed to help impacted workers and their families, strengthen local businesses, and support economic development in the Colstrip region. Funding is available for economic development projects, taxing districts, and direct assistance to workers.
Applications are reviewed quarterly on March 31, June 30, September 30, and December 31.
Help Shape Students' Futures
“I am now down to $45 in my account and need gas, groceries, diapers, and wipes… Overall, this semester has been overwhelming emotionally and financially.” - Rachel, a nursing student and grant recipient
A new school year brings promise—and unexpected challenges. For many Indigenous college students in Montana, sudden financial burdens can threaten their education. This past spring, MCF’s Indigenous Student Rapid Assistance Fund provided more than $34,000 in emergency grants to 30 students, covering essentials like food, housing, childcare, transportation, and medical care. With your support, students like Rachel can overcome temporary setbacks and stay on track to achieve their goals.
Give to Support Indigenous Students in Montana
Planning for Year-End Giving
As 2024 is coming to an end, it's the perfect time to reflect on the causes that matter most to you. MCF is here to help you achieve your philanthropic goals.
Identify Your Cause
Think about what inspires you. Ask yourself:
- What causes am I passionate about?
- What problems do I want to help solve?
- Which communities do I care about?
How MCF Can Help
Once you’ve chosen your cause, explore these giving options:
- Donor Advised Funds: Create a fund to support your favorite causes and build a lasting legacy.
- Donor Designated Funds: Direct your support to a specific organization.
- Charitable Trusts & Gift Annuities: Provide income while supporting a cause.
MCF manages hundreds of funds and can help you find or create one that fits your goals.
Ways to Give
You can fund a new or existing fund with cash, real estate, stocks, or through your retirement account. Beneficiary designations from life insurance, IRAs, and brokerage accounts are also options.
Partner with MCF
Let MCF help you find the best giving options for a brighter Montana future.
Consider Making Grant Recommendations Now
If you have a Donor Advised Fund at MCF, now is a great time to make grant recommendations. Due to the high volume of recommendations that are made in December, your grant awards may be significantly delayed if you wait until the end of the year.
It’s easy to make your year-end recommendations on our donor portal. Not registered? Register here. (Please allow at least 1-2 business days after you register to complete the process.) If you need assistance, please contact Cathy Cooney, Director of Donor Services, at 406-441-4954 or ccooney@mtcf.org.
MCF and LCFs in Communities
Rural Community Builder Summit
October 15 at 8:30 am - 5:00 pm MDT
Join Montana Nonprofit Association, Montana Community Foundation, and MSU-Extension Community Vitality for an engaging and interactive day of connecting and learning with other rural community builders in your region.
Building Legacies Over Lunch
Join the Seeley Lake Community Foundation and the Montana Community Foundation for Building Legacies Over Lunch. A Casual lunch-hour gathering with big impact. Over pizza and salad, we’ll share practical and engaging strategies for smart giving. Learn how endowments strengthen communities, explore the basics of planned and legacy giving, and discover how the Montana Endowment Tax Credit can help you maximize your generosity while reducing your tax burden.
Where: Seeley Lake Community Foundation (West Wing)
3150 MT Highway 83 N, Seeley Lake, MT
When: October 29, 2025, 12:00-1:30 PM
RSVP appreciated since lunch is served: diana@slcfmt.org or 406-677-3506
