Considering an Application to the High Stakes Foundation?
We invite you to take a moment to review the information below before starting your Letter of Intent (LOI). This page is crucial for nonprofits considering an application to HSF. Please read it thoroughly, as it contains essential guidelines and information that will aid you in understanding the application process and ensure your organization is well-prepared. By familiarizing yourself with this section, you can enhance your chances of a successful application and maximize the funding opportunities available.
Frequently Asked Questions
& Guidelines
1
When is the application deadline?
We are not currently accepting grant applications.
Grants are open for submission from February 1- March 1, and again from August 1- September 1 each year. For emergency requests or questions, please contact us at (406) 969-5865 or email loi@highstakesfoundation.org.
2
Do I need to be a 501(c)(3) to apply?
Yes, or you need a fiscal sponsor.
3
What are the funding priorities of the High Stakes Foundation?
We fund organizations that work on systems change. If your organization is focused on solutions to the pressing issues in the fields of civic engagement, conservation, climate change, social justice, leadership, rural economic development, local food systems, or sustainability in Montana we are interested in having a conversation. Let’s discuss how your work fits into creating present and future change that can make our place more equitable, sustainable, and resilient.
6
How many years in a row will you consider funding my organization?
If your organization has received funding from the High Stakes Foundation five consecutive years, we ask that you take a year off and secure one new funding source before applying again.
7
HSF does not fund:
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Organizations that are NOT 501(c)3 non-profits
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Capital campaigns
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Projects initiated or mandated by any order of government
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Political lobbying
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General social service organizations
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Litigation, unless it supports the foundations of democracy
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Research studies including species and habitat studies even if they fall within our climate change penumbr
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Religious organizations
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Hospitals or medical clinics
8
How to Apply
We want to make this as simple as possible for you and for us. Since we primarily fund general operating expenses, tell us what you are passionately working on these days and how you expect that work to make a difference at a systems change level. If it takes more than an hour to complete the entire application, something has gone wrong.
9
What is the process?
After reviewing your application, we may proceed with scheduling a site visit. We will set up a Zoom call or in person discussion for all applicants who have made it through our initial review process. Please do not submit a full proposal with your application. We value your time and want you to keep your focus on your organizational goals.
10
What is a typical grant size?
We typically grant between $10,000 and $30,000 and up to 10% of an organization’s general operating budget. Rarely do we award grants that exceed the $30,000 limit.
11
Requirements
Activities supported by grants and program-related investments must be charitable, educational, or scientific, as defined under the appropriate provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and Treasury Regulations or fit the requirements for program-related investments according to the IRS. The foundation monitors grants through regular financial and narrative reports submitted by the grantee. All grantees will enter a grant agreement with HSF.
12
What if I have further questions?
Email: loi@highstakesfoundation.org
Call: 406.969.5865
*Please leave a message and we’ll return your call.
Apply
Our fall grant cycle is currently closed. We will accept applications for our spring grant cycle February 1 through March 1, 2026.
If you're considering applying, we encourage you to explore our website to see if we’re the right fit for your organization. Whether you choose to apply or not, we appreciate the important work you and organization are doing in Montana.