Montana Grants Available

Montana Department of Commerce Tourism Grant Program

The Montana Department of Commerce Tourism Grant application cycle is open with $1 million in funds available. The Tourism Grant Program awards funds to projects that strengthen Montana’s economy through the development and enhancement of the State’s tourism and recreation industry, and that have the potential to increase non-resident visitation.

Applications for the grant funding will be open to Montana-based non-profit 501(c) organizations, Tribal governments, city governments, and county governments. Funds are generally awarded to tourism and recreation projects within these categories:

• Digital product development for online assets that create or contain a destination brand for the tourism and/or recreation industry.
• Heritage preservation projects which preserve, protect, or restore Montana’s arts, culture and/or heritage treasures.
• Infrastructure upgrades or enhancement projects of tourism facilities to enrich visitor experience and increase revenue.
• Niche product development projects within the three brand pillars of interest to non-resident visitors as identified in the Montana Destination Brand Research Study.
• Wayfinding for a community or outdoor recreation opportunity through signage, mapping, or destination development.

The 2023 annual application cycle closes at midnight MST on September 15. To learn more and apply, visit BRAND.MT.COM or contact Michele Cushman at the Montana Department of Commerce at TourismGrants@mt.gov or 406.841.2796. Interested applicants can watch a tourism grant application workshop here.

USDA Placemaking Cooperative Agreements

The USDA is accepting applications for Placemaking Cooperative Agreements and is inviting eligible entities to apply for up to $250,000 to help spur economic growth and community development of rural and Tribal communities. Eligible plans include plans to enhance capacity for high-speed internet access; preserve cultural and historic structures; and support development in transportation, housing and recreational spaces. Applications accepted now – August 15, 2022. Apply HERE.