Community Engagement Grants

Geographic Scope: Montana

Eligible Applicants: Local or tribal health departments in Montana

Award Amount: Up to $1,500 per award (health departments may divide into multiple requests through June 30, 2026, as long as total does not exceed $1,500)

Purpose & Focus

Community engagement is a vital component to the success of public health. MTPHI funds community engagement activities led by local and tribal health departments aimed at addressing public health priorities and overcoming common participation barriers.

Eligible Uses

• Food & refreshment for meetings/events
• Venue rentals
• Outreach materials
• Honoraria for speakers
• Event supplies
• Incentives for community members to participate in surveys

Funding Structure

• Funding issued as direct vendor payments unless otherwise requested
• Health departments may divide $1,500 into multiple requests through June 30, 2026
• If funding is for a re-occurring event (such as a quarterly meeting), only one application is required

Selection Criteria

MTPHI considers whether proposals:

• Enhance a public health community engagement activity
• Effectively reduce barriers for the health department to conduct the activity
• Align with eligible uses of this funding

Application Timeline

• Rolling basis: Health departments may submit applications at any time
• Funding decision: Within 2 weeks of submission

Support & Technical Assistance

• Kickoff Webinar: January 9 at 10am (introductory session)
• Dedicated Staff Support: Each applicant has access to a designated staff member for:
  • Idea development and refining project concepts
  • Budget planning and allowable cost guidance
  • Crafting a compelling story of need and impact
  • Understanding the review and reporting process
• Post-Award Support: Each awarded health department paired with MTPHI staff liaison for ongoing point of contact

Contact Information

• Email: grants@mtphi.org
• Phone: (406) 249-6357

Application Process

Application Materials Available:

• Online Application
• Word Document Application

Submission Timeline:

• Rolling basis: Applications accepted at any time
• Funding decisions: Within 2 weeks of submission

Technical Assistance Available:

• Designated staff member provides free technical assistance at every step
• Support with idea development, budget planning, and narrative crafting
• Kickoff webinar available for reference

Application Support:
Contact grants@mtphi.org or (406) 249-6357 for questions or to request support