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
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.
apply now
We’re accepting applications through the fall of 2025 with the plan to launch the cohort in November. We will review applications as we receive them. Click here to apply for the 2025-26 Cohort.
Project Categories
Students can design projects within the following categories:
- Service: Participants recruit and organize student volunteer events to address a community challenge.
- Basic Needs Support: Students tackle hunger, homelessness, and other essential needs.
- Civic Engagement: Student 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.
2024-25 College leaders cohort
Madisen Hastings, University of Montana Western
Timothy Brockie, Aaniiih Nakoda College
Melissa Faye Cowden, Montana Technological University
Jet DuMontier, Salish Kootenai College
Cassie Gleason, Helena College UM
Nadine Kemp, Flathead Valley Community College Lincoln County Campus
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 Isabella Culver.