The Opportunities in Rural Economies (ORE) Planning Grant Program is an initiative by the Montana Department of Commerce designed to support strategic planning efforts that promote economic growth and resilience in rural communities throughout Montana. Announced on April 7, 2025, this grant opportunity provides matching funds to help local entities design and implement plans that will stimulate business innovation and long-term economic development in rural areas of the state.

The ORE Planning Grant aims to empower communities to envision and structure their future economic trajectories. Eligible planning projects may include the development of economic development strategies, feasibility studies, community business growth plans, and other foundational work that supports sustainable business activity and infrastructure in rural settings. The grant reinforces the Department’s mission of fostering inclusive prosperity and helping communities make informed and strategic economic decisions.

Applications for the grant open on April 7, 2025, and will close at midnight on May 2, 2025. This is not a rolling application, and only complete applications received before the deadline will be considered. The application portal and further details are accessible through the Montana Department of Commerce’s website, specifically the ORE Planning Grant Application page.

The program is administered by the Big Sky Trust Fund team at the Department of Commerce. Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out to Kathy Bartlett, the program specialist, for application guidance or eligibility questions. She can be reached at 406-841-2792 or by email at kathy.bartlett@mt.gov. Full eligibility criteria and program guidelines are also available at commerce.mt.gov.

The Montana Department of Commerce is committed to advancing economic opportunities, especially in underserved and rural regions. Through the ORE grant, the state seeks to equip communities with the planning tools and resources necessary to identify economic opportunities, reduce barriers to business growth, and build a resilient rural economy.