The Explore Agriculture Classroom Grant

The Explore Agriculture Classroom Grant is a rolling grant opportunity offered by the Montana Stockgrowers Foundation (MSF) with the support of Montana Ag in the Classroom. This program awards grants of up to $500 to support K–12 educators and administrators across the state of Montana who are integrating agriculture into their classroom curriculum. The purpose of this grant is to encourage creative, educational exploration of Montana agriculture and its connection to daily life, while fostering deeper awareness and engagement among students about the state’s agricultural sector. Eligible applicants include any K–12 educator or school administrator based in Montana. The grant supports a broad spectrum of agriculture-related activities such as classroom-based lessons, hands-on learning projects, field trips, and events that directly engage students in understanding agriculture's relevance and value. Grant funds may be used flexibly within these parameters, and MSF provides examples of qualifying uses on their website FAQ. Applications are accepted continuously throughout the school year and into the summer, with no set deadline, reflecting the program's rolling nature. The process begins by submitting an online application describing the lesson, project, or event for which funding is sought. Once submitted, applications are reviewed by the Montana Stockgrowers Foundation Board of Trustees. Applicants are typically notified of a funding decision within 30 days of submission. Successful applicants must submit an impact report within 30 days following the completion of the funded project or event. The report is expected to outline the use and impact of the funds, and while including photos is not mandatory due to student privacy concerns, applicants are encouraged to include them if possible. Grant funds are disbursed to the recipient’s school or school district, not directly to individuals. This initiative is part of MSF’s broader mission to promote agricultural literacy and education among Montana youth. By supporting locally grounded, educator-led efforts in schools, the Explore Agriculture Classroom Grant seeks to strengthen student awareness of Montana’s agricultural heritage and economy through real-world, experiential learning.

Emphasize impact and creative integration of agriculture; provide a complete impact report post-implementation