Montana offers a variety of grant and funding opportunities to help communities, schools, and nonprofits build or enhance sports and recreation facilities. From state-managed outdoor recreation initiatives to federal programs and private foundations, these resources support projects that strengthen communities, promote wellness, and expand access to outdoor and athletic spaces across the Treasure State.
This guide highlights the most relevant sports and recreation funding opportunities in Montana — helping you identify programs, prepare your applications, and secure support for your next facility project.
👉 If you’re in a hurry, download our 65-page Grants Guide with state-by-state funding programs—or explore the largest grants database in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to sports facility development, updated continuously to keep you ahead.
State-Level Funding for Sports Facilities in Montana
Montana’s state agencies — including the Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), the Department of Commerce, and the Office of Outdoor Recreation — manage programs that fund park improvements, trail development, and community recreation facilities. These initiatives help support both local residents and the state’s thriving outdoor tourism economy.
Recreational Trails Program (RTP)
Administered by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), the Recreational Trails Program provides matching grants for the construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of recreational trails throughout the state. RTP projects enhance outdoor access, improve safety, and connect communities through well-designed multi-use paths.
- Max Grant Amount: Up to $200,000 (requires a 20% local match)
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, state agencies, and federal agencies
- What It Funds: Trail construction, rehabilitation, and related amenities such as signage and lighting
- Application Deadline: November
- Contact/Link: FHWA – RTP Program
Federal Grants Supporting Sports and Recreation in Montana
Federal programs such as those administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provide significant funding for recreation and infrastructure projects. These grants help Montana communities build and maintain parks, trails, and athletic facilities in both urban and rural areas.
Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG State)
The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program provides funding to Montana’s smaller cities and counties for infrastructure and community facility projects. Many communities use CDBG funds to build or upgrade parks, playgrounds, and recreation centers that improve local quality of life.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Local governments through the state-administered program
- What It Funds: Parks, playgrounds, recreation centers, and community facilities
- Application Deadline: Varies by state
- Contact/Link: HUD CDBG Program
Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program
Administered by USDA Rural Development, this program provides loans and grants for essential community facilities in rural areas. In Montana, eligible projects include recreation centers, sports complexes, and community gathering spaces that serve public needs.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Public bodies, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural areas
- What It Funds: Recreational facilities, sports complexes, and public-use buildings
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: USDA Rural Development Montana
EPA Brownfields & Greenfields Program
The Environmental Protection Agency’s Brownfields Program funds the cleanup and redevelopment of contaminated or underused properties. Montana communities can use this funding to repurpose industrial or vacant land into new parks, sports fields, and community recreation facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: $500,000–$2 million
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, states, tribes, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Cleanup and redevelopment for parks, athletic fields, and recreation centers
- Application Deadline: November
- Contact/Link: EPA Brownfields Program
Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)
The Land and Water Conservation Fund provides matching grants for outdoor recreation projects. Administered in Montana by the Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP), LWCF funding supports the acquisition, development, and improvement of parks, trails, and sports facilities across the state.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: State, local, and tribal governments
- What It Funds: Outdoor recreation and sports facility development
- Application Deadline: Varies by state
- Contact/Link: LWCF
U.S. Department of Energy – Renew America’s Schools
This program provides federal funding to improve the energy efficiency of K–12 schools and related facilities. In Montana, schools and nonprofit partners can use funding for energy-efficient lighting, HVAC upgrades, and renewable energy systems in gymnasiums and recreation spaces.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Schools and nonprofit organizations working on behalf of schools
- What It Funds: LED lighting, HVAC systems, and renewable energy improvements
- Application Deadline: April
- Contact/Link: DOE – Renew America’s Schools
UPARR Program
The Urban Park and Recreation Recovery (UPARR) program provides federal grants for the restoration and development of parks and recreation facilities in economically disadvantaged urban areas. Montana municipalities can apply to create or upgrade playgrounds, sports fields, and community recreation centers.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by project
- Who Can Apply: Economically disadvantaged urban communities
- What It Funds: Playground construction, athletic field development, and recreation facility improvements
- Application Deadline: Not confirmed
- Contact/Link: UPARR Program
Nonprofit and Private Sports Grants in Montana
Private foundations and nonprofit organizations contribute to Montana’s recreation landscape by funding community wellness, youth sports, and facility enhancement projects. Their grants often focus on expanding recreation opportunities, improving accessibility, and promoting active lifestyles statewide.
NRPA / Bobcat Company Improvement Grant Program
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA), in partnership with Bobcat Company, funds small-scale recreation and community improvement projects. Montana municipalities and nonprofits can apply to build or upgrade parks, playgrounds, and outdoor recreation facilities.
- Max Grant Amount: $50,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, colleges, and government entities
- What It Funds: Park and recreation facility improvements
- Application Deadline: Not confirmed
- Contact/Link: NRPA Grants
Sports Matter Grant
Funded by Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation, the Sports Matter Grant provides financial support to youth sports organizations for facility improvements, equipment purchases, and program expansion.
- Max Grant Amount: $25,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Youth sports facility upgrades, equipment, and participation programs
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: Sports Matter Grants
Treacy Foundation
The Treacy Foundation supports projects that strengthen communities across Montana, with a focus on education, recreation, and youth development. Recreation grants often fund park improvements, sports facilities, and playground enhancements that improve local access to physical activity.
- Max Grant Amount: $10,000
- Who Can Apply: Tax-exempt nonprofits, schools, colleges, and government entities
- What It Funds: Community recreation and youth sports facility projects
- Application Deadline: None (open year-round)
- Contact/Link: Treacy Foundation
The National Recreation and Park Association Grants
The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) provides competitive grants to improve local recreation infrastructure. Montana communities can apply for funding to build playgrounds, outdoor fitness areas, and multi-purpose sports facilities that promote health and social connection.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies by program
- Who Can Apply: Local governments, park and recreation agencies, and nonprofits
- What It Funds: Playgrounds, sports fields, and recreation spaces
- Application Deadline: Varies by grant
- Contact/Link: NRPA Grants
Sport-Specific Grants and Funding in Montana
Several national and regional organizations provide sport-specific grants to support facility development and programming for baseball, soccer, football, tennis, and track and field. These programs help Montana communities improve facility quality, expand participation, and foster inclusive, youth-focused sports environments.
Safe Places to Play Grants
The U.S. Soccer Foundation’s Safe Places to Play program provides funding for soccer facility development. In Montana, these grants can be used to build or resurface soccer fields, install lighting, or develop mini-pitches that expand community access to the sport.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and community-based organizations
- What It Funds: Soccer fields, mini-pitches, and lighting projects
- Application Deadline: Multiple cycles
- Contact/Link: Safe Places to Play
MLB Baseball Youth Development Foundation
The MLB Youth Development Foundation funds projects that promote youth baseball and softball participation. Montana communities can apply for support to build or renovate fields, install lighting, or purchase equipment.
- Max Grant Amount: Unspecified
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Baseball and softball facilities, field renovations, and equipment
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: MLB Youth Development Foundation
NFL Foundation Grassroots Program
The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program provides funding to build or renovate football fields in underserved communities. Montana schools and nonprofits can apply for funding to upgrade turf, lighting, and safety features.
- Max Grant Amount: $250,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, educational institutions, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Football field construction, renovation, and safety upgrades
- Application Deadline: Spring
- Contact/Link: NFL Foundation Grassroots
USTA Facility Assistance Program
The USTA Facility Assistance Program supports tennis facility construction, resurfacing, and lighting improvements. Montana schools, clubs, and community organizations can use this funding to expand access to tennis and encourage participation.
- Max Grant Amount: $55,000
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits, schools, and youth sports clubs
- What It Funds: Tennis court resurfacing, new construction, and facility enhancements
- Application Deadline: None
- Contact/Link: USTA Facility Assistance Program
USA Track & Field (USATF) Grants
The USATF Foundation funds projects that improve track and field facilities and promote youth participation. Montana organizations can apply to resurface running tracks, construct new facilities, or upgrade field event areas.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Schools, clubs, and community organizations (varies by grant)
- What It Funds: Track resurfacing, new construction, and field improvements
- Application Deadline: Varies by program
- Contact/Link: USATF Foundation Grants
USA Football Grant Program
The USA Football Grant Program provides funding to improve safety and access for youth, middle school, and high school football programs. Montana communities can use funding for field maintenance, equipment, and safety initiatives.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: U.S.-based tax-exempt youth or school football programs
- What It Funds: Equipment, field improvements, and safety upgrades
- Application Deadline: Varies
- Contact/Link: USA Football Grants
All Kids Play – Youth Sports Grants
The All Kids Play Grant Program helps nonprofit organizations expand access to organized sports for children in low-income communities. Montana organizations can use this funding to improve facilities, purchase equipment, and support inclusive youth programming.
- Max Grant Amount: Varies
- Who Can Apply: Nonprofits serving low-income or underserved youth
- What It Funds: Equipment, facility upgrades, and youth participation support
- Application Deadline: Rolling
- Contact/Link: All Kids Play Grants
Funding for Private Developers & Businesses in Montana
Private developers and business owners in Montana can access a mix of programs and incentives designed to encourage investment in community, tourism, and recreation-based infrastructure. These initiatives support projects that create jobs, attract visitors, and enhance the quality of life across the state — including sports complexes, recreation facilities, and mixed-use developments with outdoor amenities.
Montana Department of Commerce – Economic Development Programs
The Montana Department of Commerce administers programs that stimulate investment, community revitalization, and outdoor recreation. Developers working on sports or recreation-related projects may qualify for several initiatives:
- Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund (BSTF): Provides job creation and infrastructure grants to support business expansion and community projects that promote economic growth. Recreation facilities that generate employment or tourism may qualify.
- Community Development Block Grant – Economic Development (CDBG-ED): Offers funding for infrastructure or facility improvements tied to private-sector job creation, including recreation and tourism-related developments.
- Infrastructure Loan Program: Low-interest financing for public or private developments that expand infrastructure and services, including community and recreation spaces.
These programs are especially valuable for developers building recreation or sports facilities that contribute to long-term economic vitality.
Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development (MOTBD)
The Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development provides funding and partnership opportunities for projects that promote the state’s outdoor recreation and tourism economy.
- Tourism Grant Program: Offers competitive funding to develop or enhance tourism infrastructure, including recreation facilities, event venues, and sports complexes that attract visitors.
- Who Can Apply: Municipalities, nonprofits, and for-profit entities working in partnership with a community or tourism organization.
- What It Funds: Facility construction, trail and park improvements, signage, and visitor amenities tied to recreation and tourism.
- Application Deadline: Annual cycle (typically fall/winter).
MOTBD also provides technical assistance for projects that align with Montana’s brand as a premier destination for outdoor adventure and community recreation.
Opportunity Zones
Montana has 25 federally designated Opportunity Zones across both rural and urban communities, including Missoula, Great Falls, and Billings. Developers who reinvest capital gains into qualifying projects within these zones can defer or reduce federal taxes while revitalizing local economies.
- Eligible Projects: Sports complexes, recreation centers, and tourism-oriented mixed-use developments.
- Program Benefits: Federal capital gains tax deferrals and partial exclusions after long-term investment.
Big Sky Economic Development (BSED)
Big Sky Economic Development works to foster business growth and infrastructure development in Yellowstone County and throughout Montana. Recreation and tourism-based projects that contribute to local economic development may qualify for financial and technical assistance.
- Programs Include:
- Economic Development Administration (EDA) Grants: For infrastructure and facility projects that promote job creation.
- Project Development Assistance: Expert consulting and planning support for recreation and tourism projects.
- Gap Financing: Loans and funding to help complete development projects that enhance community livability.
BSED often partners with local governments and the Montana Department of Commerce to support recreation and sports facility projects that have regional impact.
Local and Regional Development Incentives
Cities and counties across Montana offer additional incentives and funding partnerships for recreation and tourism-focused projects:
- Billings: Offers Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for infrastructure improvements connected to sports or recreation facilities.
- Bozeman: Supports recreation development through its Economic Development Program and partnerships with the Gallatin Valley Land Trust for trail and park integration.
- Missoula: Provides incentives for outdoor recreation and community projects that align with the city’s Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan.
- Great Falls: Offers business development grants and low-interest loans for projects that create tourism opportunities or enhance local recreation infrastructure.
By combining these local, state, and federal programs, developers can build financially viable sports and recreation facilities that strengthen Montana’s communities and economy.
Utilities Rebates and Green Incentives in Montana
Sports and recreation facilities in Montana can take advantage of utility-sponsored programs that promote energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and cost savings. These initiatives offer rebates, technical assistance, and financing for upgrades such as lighting, HVAC, and solar systems — helping athletic facilities and community centers operate more sustainably.
NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy offers a suite of commercial energy-efficiency programs to help businesses, schools, and municipalities reduce energy costs.
- Lighting and Controls Rebates: Incentives for LED lighting upgrades in gymnasiums, arenas, and outdoor sports fields.
- HVAC and Equipment Rebates: Funding for high-efficiency heating, ventilation, and cooling systems.
- Custom Efficiency Projects: Rebates for unique or large-scale energy projects that demonstrate measurable savings, such as pool heating or ice rink optimization.
- Renewable Energy Support: Guidance and interconnection services for facilities installing solar or wind systems.
NorthWestern also provides Energy Audits and design assistance for new facilities to ensure long-term energy efficiency from the ground up.
Montana-Dakota Utilities (MDU)
Montana-Dakota Utilities (MDU) serves eastern and central Montana with programs focused on improving natural gas efficiency.
- High-Efficiency Equipment Rebates: Incentives for furnaces, boilers, and water heaters that lower energy consumption and costs.
- Custom Projects: Rebates for facilities that implement significant gas-saving initiatives, such as pool heating upgrades or efficient water systems in recreation centers.
- Engineering Support: Assistance with energy modeling and cost analysis for facilities looking to improve performance.
These programs are particularly beneficial for indoor recreation centers, aquatic facilities, and schools with large heating and water usage needs.
Flathead Electric Cooperative
Flathead Electric Cooperative serves northwestern Montana with commercial energy-efficiency programs that help organizations reduce costs while supporting renewable energy adoption.
- Lighting Rebates: Incentives for replacing indoor, outdoor, and field lighting with LED systems.
- HVAC and Building Controls: Rebates for energy-efficient systems and programmable building management solutions.
- Renewable Energy Incentives: Net-metering support for facilities installing solar or small-scale wind systems.
Flathead Electric also offers custom incentive programs for nonprofits and municipalities pursuing large-scale recreation or community improvement projects.
Missoula Electric Cooperative
Missoula Electric Cooperative promotes energy efficiency and renewable energy in western Montana through a variety of incentive programs.
- Lighting and HVAC Rebates: Funding for energy-efficient lighting and heating/cooling systems in public facilities.
- Energy Audits: Free assessments to identify cost-saving opportunities in recreation and community buildings.
- Renewable Energy Support: Guidance and interconnection for solar and battery storage systems that power athletic and community spaces.
This co-op’s programs are especially useful for small towns and rural recreation projects seeking sustainable energy solutions.
Vigilante Electric Cooperative
Vigilante Electric Cooperative serves southwest Montana and offers rebates for commercial and public facilities upgrading to energy-efficient systems.
- Lighting Rebates: Incentives for LED replacements in indoor and outdoor spaces, including gymnasiums and sports fields.
- HVAC Upgrades: Rebates for efficient heat pumps, furnaces, and ventilation systems.
- Renewable Energy Programs: Technical support for solar installation and energy storage integration.
Vigilante Electric also provides low-interest financing options for public or nonprofit facilities completing energy-efficiency projects.
Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) – State Energy Office
The Montana DEQ State Energy Office supports energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in public and nonprofit facilities.
- State Energy Program (SEP): Offers grants and technical assistance for sustainable building upgrades.
- Energy Performance Contracting: Allows municipalities and schools to finance energy improvements through guaranteed savings.
- Clean Energy Design Tools: Assistance with integrating renewable and high-performance systems into new recreation facilities.
By combining these state and utility programs, Montana communities can build and operate energy-smart sports and recreation facilities that save money, reduce emissions, and serve as models for sustainability.
City-Level and Regional Funding Opportunities in Montana
Cities across Montana actively invest in parks, trails, and sports facilities through a combination of local bonds, tourism funding, and state and federal grant programs. Many communities also partner with local nonprofits and economic development organizations to enhance access to outdoor recreation and promote sustainable community growth.
Billings
Billings’ Parks, Recreation & Public Lands Department manages an extensive system of parks, trails, and sports facilities funded through local bond measures, user fees, and partnerships with the Montana Department of Commerce and Big Sky Economic Development (BSED). The city often utilizes Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) and Recreational Trails Program (RTP) grants to expand trail connectivity, renovate athletic fields, and develop community recreation facilities.
Bozeman
Bozeman’s Parks and Recreation Department oversees park, trail, and facility improvements funded through the city’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and impact fees from new development. The city collaborates with the Gallatin Valley Land Trust (GVLT) to connect parks and trails while leveraging grants from programs like LWCF, RTP, and the Montana Office of Tourism and Business Development. Bozeman’s strong focus on sustainability ensures that new recreation facilities align with its long-term environmental goals.
Missoula
Missoula’s Parks and Recreation Department invests heavily in outdoor recreation, community wellness, and environmental stewardship. Funding comes from local bond initiatives, state recreation programs, and partnerships with the Missoula Parks and Trails Foundation. The city regularly secures support from the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) and Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) for trail expansion and park redevelopment. Missoula also integrates renewable energy solutions into facility upgrades with help from Missoula Electric Cooperative incentives.
Great Falls
Great Falls’ Park and Recreation Department manages city parks, athletic fields, and indoor recreation centers funded through general obligation bonds, user fees, and federal programs such as CDBG and LWCF. The city partners with Great Falls Development Authority and Visit Great Falls to support tourism-driven recreation projects and facility enhancements that attract regional sporting events.
Kalispell
Kalispell’s Parks and Recreation Department oversees more than 400 acres of parks and trails, funded by local impact fees, state recreation grants, and partnerships with Flathead Electric Cooperative. The city regularly uses RTP and Montana Department of Commerce Tourism Grants to expand outdoor recreation opportunities and improve access to community athletic fields. Kalispell’s recreation initiatives align with its vision of sustainable growth and outdoor tourism development.
Start Planning Your Montana Sports Facility Project
From Bozeman’s trail-connected recreation system to Missoula’s community-focused parks and Billings’ expanding athletic complexes, Montana continues to invest in facilities that bring people together and strengthen local economies. With strong support from state agencies, federal funding, and local partnerships, communities across the state are well-positioned to build recreation and sports projects that reflect Montana’s outdoor heritage and active lifestyle.
Before applying, define your project’s purpose, community impact, and alignment with Montana’s recreation and tourism goals. Funders — from the Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks to the Office of Tourism and Business Development — prioritize projects that expand access, promote sustainability, and create lasting benefits for residents and visitors.
Sports Venue Calculator helps you move from concept to construction. Use our tools to estimate project costs, compare design options, and develop a funding strategy tailored to your community’s needs. With thoughtful planning and the right partnerships, your Montana sports facility can become a cornerstone for recreation, tourism, and community pride.
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