FY26 Strategic Investment Grant (SIG)

The Montana Arts Council, a state government agency, offers the FY2026 Strategic Investment Grants (SIG) to support the creative potential and economic vitality of Montana through the arts. Governed by a 15-member board appointed by the Governor, the Council is funded by both state and federal sources and is dedicated to supporting the development of artists and nonprofit arts organizations across Montana. Strategic Investment Grants provide up to $1000 to fund activities that foster professional development, market expansion, or public engagement through the arts. The grants are available to both individual artists and nonprofit arts organizations in Montana. Eligible expenses include attending workshops and conferences, public exhibitions, expanding digital presence, and purchasing technology or equipment necessary for professional growth. However, the grants exclude costs related to normal production materials, labor, personal or household expenses, and activities conducted outside the U.S. or prior to the start date. Applications are due monthly on the 15th by 11:59 p.m., with review panels meeting on the second Wednesday of the following month. Applications must be submitted online. The application process includes specific sections for detailing the proposed activity, its expected outcomes, and how it contributes to artistic or organizational development. Artists and organizations are evaluated based on criteria such as career development, project feasibility, impact, and public value. Submissions undergo initial staff review to confirm eligibility before panel evaluation. Awards are reimbursed post-completion and require submission of receipts and a final report. To be eligible, individual applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and have resided in Montana for at least 12 months. Organizations must be Montana-based 501(c)(3) entities in operation for at least one year with an arts-focused mission. Applicants may not be high school or degree-seeking students, current participants in certain Council programs, or past grantees with incomplete reports. Each grantee may receive up to $1000 per fiscal year, which begins July 1. The application includes sections for describing expenses, identifying matching funds, and uploading supporting materials such as resumes, work samples, and letters of support. Contact information for technical assistance or eligibility questions is available through Brian Moody at brian.moody2@mt.gov or 406-444-4700. Monthly deadlines and review dates are published on the Montana Arts Council’s website. Applicants are encouraged to include public engagement elements in their proposals, such as workshops or exhibitions, to enhance the proposal’s public value.