Montana Organizations Can Access Up to $400,000 in Grants for America’s 250th Anniversary Projects

HELENA — Montana organizations have until October 30 to apply for grants up to $400,000 to support commemorative projects ahead of America’s 250th anniversary on July 4, 2026.

The Montana 250th Commission announced the launch of its grant program Tuesday, offering funding with no cost-match requirement to a broad range of applicants including towns, cities, counties, Indigenous nations, schools, museums, libraries, nonprofits, historic sites, heritage organizations, veterans groups, state agencies and other community groups.

“We’re excited to help our partners across the state commemorate America’s milestone birthday next year in meaningful and memorable ways,” said Commission Chairman Chris Averill. “Thanks to funding provided by the Legislature and signed into law by Governor Gianforte, the Commission is seeking bold, thoughtful, and community-minded ideas to ensure all Montanans are included in the festivities.”

Three Guiding Themes

Projects must align with at least one of three key themes that guide the commission’s work: “Doing History,” “Our Ongoing American Experiment,” or “The Power of Place.”

The “Doing History” theme encourages projects that engage communities in historical research, preservation, and storytelling. “Our Ongoing American Experiment” focuses on civic engagement and the evolution of democratic ideals, while “The Power of Place” emphasizes the unique geographical and cultural significance of Montana’s landscapes and communities.

All awarded projects must be completed and available to the public by December 31, 2026. Complete information and application materials are available at www.america250mt.org.

Additional Event Sponsorships

Beyond the major grant program, the Montana 250th Commission will offer up to $100,000 in event sponsorships to support community celebrations recognizing the semiquincentennial. Individual sponsorships ranging from $500 to $5,000 will be available to organizations planning events between March and December 2026.

These sponsorships aim to foster public participation in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, highlight the achievements and significance of Montanans throughout history, and recognize the vibrant Indigenous cultures present in 1776. The program also seeks to honor veterans who have secured and preserved American independence.

The sponsorship program includes efforts to increase civic engagement through activities that promote participation in the U.S. civics test and recognize schools for outstanding achievement in civics, history, government, and Indian Education for All.

Event sponsorship applications will be available in January 2026 on a first-come, first-served basis for qualifying events, with details to be posted at www.america250mt.org.

Legislative Foundation

The Montana 250th Commission was established by the 2023 Montana Legislature through House Bill 377 to coordinate statewide efforts commemorating the United States Semiquincentennial. The commission works in partnership with the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission, which Congress established in 2016 to orchestrate nationwide activities recognizing the 250th anniversary of American independence.

“We look forward to working with organizations across the state to make America’s 250th anniversary memorable,” Averill said.

The commission’s mission focuses on promoting civic engagement and increasing public awareness of United States and Montana government and history, including the rich history of Tribal nations. Through grants, sponsorships, and collaborative partnerships, the commission ensures that Montana’s semiquincentennial commemoration honors the full spectrum of experiences that have shaped both the state and nation.

For more information about the Montana 250 Grant Program or to apply, visit www.america250mt.org or contact the Montana 250 Coordinator at [email protected].