For over 30 years, the Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement (MCNCE) has championed civic engagement across Montana’s higher education institutions. Representing 18 colleges and universities statewide, MCNCE empowers students to address critical community needs through impactful service projects that foster personal and academic growth.
Empowering Student Leaders Across Montana
In collaboration with The Allstate Foundation and the Center for Expanding Leadership and Opportunity (CELO), MCNCE is offering micro-grants ranging from $300 to $500 to fund student-led service initiatives. These projects provide students with hands-on opportunities to lead, collaborate, and create lasting change in their communities.
Supported by our Advisory Committee and dedicated campus mentors, students will gain leadership training, peer mentoring, and the skills to drive impactful projects. From expanding food pantry access to supporting native language preservation, these initiatives address pressing issues while developing the next generation of civic leaders.
Project Categories
Students can design projects within the following categories:
- Service: Organize volunteer events to address community challenges.
- Basic Needs Support: Tackle student hunger, homelessness, and essential needs.
- Civic Engagement: Inspire and promote participation in civic life.
Funding Restrictions
To ensure impactful and community-focused initiatives, funding may not be used for:
- Alternative service trips.
- Resource donations to nonprofits.
- Political campaigns or issue advocacy.
- Salaries or institutional overhead.
2025 Awardees
Madisen Hastings, University of Montana Western
Tommy Roberts, Montana State University Billings
Timothy Brockie, Aaniiih Nakoda College
Melissa Faye Cowden, Montana Technological University
Jet DuMontier, Salish Kootenai College
Cassie Gleason, Helena College UM
Heather Maestas, Flathead Valley Community College
Lomar Wandering Medicine, Salish Kootenai College
Emilie Turpen, Carroll College
Cheyenne Walksnice, University of Montana Western
Jewlia Archey, Great Falls College MSU
John Mossbacher, Montana State University Billings
ResouRces
If you are a student planning to apply for this, please contact the Advisory Committee member at your campus, they’re super helpful and committed to supporting this great work!
We strongly recommend spending time on the CELO website, including reading the Leveraging the Potential of Youth Service and In Our Own Voices reports, as well CELO’s resource library.
At MCNCE, we believe in the power of students to transform communities while growing as leaders. If you’re ready to make a difference, apply for a micro-grant today and start creating meaningful change in Montana!
For more information or to get involved, contact Josh Vanek.
Apply Today!
2026 Application Deadline: September 30, 2025