MCF Community Investment Program (CIP) Grant

MCF Community Investment Program (CIP) Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Montana Community Foundation
Amount: Up to US $50,000
Last Updated: March 17, 2026

Summary

The MCF Community Investment Program (CIP) supports innovative projects that enhance the quality of life in Rosebud, Custer, and Fallon County, Montana. Established by Grid United, this program aims to partner with local communities, encouraging projects that address community needs and leverage additional support. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, while ineligible projects include one-time events and general operating expenses. Grants must benefit the specified counties.

Overview

About Us Here at the Montana Community Foundation, we care about Montana. It's not just the place where we live and work, it's our home. Since 1988, the Montana Community Foundation has worked tirelessly to create permanent philanthropy and build stronger communities. MCF manages more than $188.5 million in assets and administers more than 1,470 philanthropic funds and planned gifts. Our work with donors, charitable organizations, cities and towns plays a critical role in both philanthropic and community development. Since our founding, MCF has reinvested more than $100 million in Montana through scholarships, grants, and programs. MCF Community Investment Program (CIP) 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.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. 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.  Applicants who have applied for previous grant cycles may apply for subsequent grant cycles for different phases of their project. Only one application is allowed per organization.Eligible Projects: Projects that have a broad impact on the quality of life for a significant number of people in Rosebud, Custer, or Fallon County. Projects that propose ways to address community issues and problems. Projects that leverage other sources of support. Projects that encourage other to get involved in addressing community needs. Projects that are creative in their approach to solving problems or capturing opportunities. Projects that are responsive to changing and emerging needs. Projects that support innovative approaches to economic and community development.

Ineligibility

Individuals and for-profits are ineligible; however, individuals and for-profits may apply through a fiscal sponsor that is eligible.Ineligible Projects: Religious, partisan, or sectarian programs or projects. One-time events, such as celebrations or social gatherings, that are not part of longer-term economic and community development goals.General operating expenses.