Mini-Grants

Program Overview

In 2002, the Montana Trout Unlimited (MTU) State Council established the Habitat Protection and Enhancement Fund through the generous contributions from the Estate of Bud Morris and the Steve Bryant Wild Trout Stewardship Fund investment accounts. The earnings from these funds, along with ongoing support from the Connell Family Foundation, are used to fund projects that further MTU’s mission to “conserve, protect, and restore Montana’s coldwater fisheries and their watersheds.”

Proposals for funding are reviewed biannually by the MTU Executive Committee. Past funded projects have included youth education, habitat restoration, and habitat monitoring, all contributing to the health and sustainability of Montana’s vital coldwater ecosystems.

Chapters are encouraged to submit requests that include commitment to chapter match to ensure the success of their project. Match can include funds, volunteer time, and equipment use. Chapter contributions help maximize the impact of the available funds, fostering community buy-in and supporting long-term success.

Celebrating 20 Years of Success

Over the past two decades, the Mini-Grant Program has been instrumental in achieving significant wins for Montana’s trout populations. Learn more about the lasting impacts these projects have had on our fisheries and communities through the infographic above.

Eligibility

To be eligible for funding, Trout Unlimited (TU) chapters or their affiliates in Montana must meet the following criteria:

  • Be in good standing with Trout Unlimited National and the Montana State Council.
  • Satisfy all federal tax filing requirements.
  • Meet the reporting requirements for any past awards received from the program.
  • Proposals must be authorized by the chapter president or the presiding officer of the chapter or affiliates.

Reporting Requirements

Recipients of Mini-Grant funding must provide regular project updates to remain in good standing for future funding cycles.

  • Progress Reports: Chapters must submit a project update form or final report by the deadline of the following funding cycle. For example, if you receive a grant in the spring cycle, a report must be submitted by the fall cycle.
  • Timely Submissions: Chapters that fail to submit reports by the deadline may be ineligible for future grants until the outstanding report is received.

These reports help ensure that funded projects stay on track and align with MTU’s mission to protect Montana’s coldwater fisheries and should be submitted to [email protected] by the application deadlines on November 1st and April 1st.

How to Apply

Application deadlines are November 1st and April 1st. Applications must be submitted to [email protected] and should include a completed project budget.

Funding availability can vary each year, so we encourage chapters to contact Montana TU for the latest funding information before submitting a grant application. For more details, please contact:

Phone: 406-543-0054
Email: [email protected]

Reports and Application Materials