No, I didn’t forget about you.
If you’ve been following my grant updates and wondering when the next serious opportunity was coming—this is one you need to pay attention to.
There’s no fixed award amount listed, and normally that might make people nervous. But here’s why I genuinely love this grant and why you should take it seriously:
👉 Bank of Montreal (BMO) has awarded over $108 MILLION in total funding.
Yes—they’ve got the bag. And more importantly, they’ve got a proven history of giving it away.
This funding isn’t limited to just cash. It also includes:
- Cash donations
- Valuation of volunteer support
- Program assistance
- Donations and capacity-building support
That’s why this opportunity stands out. It’s not just about money—it’s about long-term impact and partnership.
Before we dive in, do me a favor: make sure you’re following and liking the video or blog you found this through, because I’ll continue sharing real, verified funding opportunities like this as they open.
WHO IS OFFERING THIS GRANT?
This funding opportunity is coming from the Bank of Montreal (BMO).
While BMO is widely known for its programs in Canada, they actively award funding to nonprofit organizations in the United States as well. Over the years, they’ve distributed $108 million across North America, so there’s no question about whether the funding is real—it is.
If you’re applying from the U.S., the most important requirement is this:
✅ Your organization must be a registered U.S. nonprofit
✅ You must have 501(c)(3) status
✅ Your organization must be properly structured and compliant
If your paperwork isn’t in order, pause here and fix that first.
GRANT CYCLES: TIMING MATTERS
The first grant cycle for the year may already be closed, but don’t click away just yet.
🚨 The next funding cycle opens in September — and this is exactly why now is the time to prepare.
Too many organizations wait until applications open before they start planning. That’s how good opportunities are missed.
This is not the time to get ready.
This is the time to BE ready.
TWO FUNDING TRACKS YOU NEED TO KNOW
BMO’s grant program is divided into two distinct tracks. You must clearly align with one of them.
1️⃣ Community Track
This track supports nonprofits focused on strengthening communities and economic stability.
Priority areas include:
- Financial literacy programs
- Workforce training and job readiness
- Skills development
- Community development initiatives
- Education, health equity, and social services
If your organization helps people become more financially stable, employable, educated, or supported—this track may be for you.
2️⃣ Environmental Resilience Track
This track is designed for organizations addressing environmental challenges and sustainability.
Eligible focus areas include:
- Climate-resilient infrastructure
- Sustainable or alternative materials
- Environmental conservation efforts
- Alternative energy projects in low-income communities
- Environmental education and public awareness campaigns
- Innovative environmental research
If your nonprofit works at the intersection of environment, equity, and sustainability, this is where you should be looking.
START WITH THE ELIGIBILITY ASSESSMENT
Before you even think about applying, complete BMO’s grant eligibility assessment.
This step is critical.
It helps you:
- Confirm alignment with BMO’s priorities
- Avoid wasting time on ineligible applications
- Focus your energy where you actually have a chance
Skipping this step is one of the fastest ways to get denied.
HOW TO STRENGTHEN YOUR APPLICATION
Once you’ve confirmed eligibility, here’s how to stand out in a competitive cycle.
✔️ Submit a Clear, Realistic Budget
Your budget should:
- Match the scope of your project
- Clearly show how funds will be used
- Avoid vague or inflated numbers
Funders want to see stewardship—not guesswork.
✔️ Write a Strong Statement of Need
This is where you explain:
- The problem your community is facing
- Why it matters now
- Who is affected
- Why your organization is uniquely positioned to address it
Focus on impact, not emotion alone.
✔️ Show Your Impact
Be specific:
- What outcomes will this funding create?
- How many people will be served?
- What measurable changes will occur?
Clarity builds confidence.
✔️ Applying for Multi-Year Funding?
If you’re requesting funding over multiple years (for example, Year 1 through Year 3):
- Break down each year clearly
- Show how goals evolve year by year
- Demonstrate long-term planning and sustainability
This tells funders you’re thinking beyond short-term wins.
WHY BMO CARES ABOUT THIS WORK
BMO’s giving philosophy is rooted in the belief that strong communities create a thriving economy and a sustainable future.
They support:
- Community organizations across North America
- Strategic partnerships addressing societal needs
- Employee giving and volunteer engagement
With over 55,000 employees and a 200+ year legacy, BMO is deeply invested in what they call “growing the good” in the communities they serve.
BMO GIVING: AT A GLANCE
Here’s why this funder matters:
- $108 million given to more than 1,000 nonprofits and charities in 2024
- $39 million donated by BMO employees in a single year
- $11 million contributed to United Way in 2024 alone
- $130+ million donated by employees over the past five years
📌 Amounts include cash donations, volunteer time valuation, and program management support. Figures are stated in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.
BMO’S GIVING PRIORITIES (SUMMARY)
BMO supports programs aligned with:
Community & Economic Resilience
- Financial literacy
- Skills development
- Education and workforce training
- Social services and health equity
- Accessible arts and cultural programming
Environmental Resilience
- Conservation and sustainability
- Alternative energy projects
- Environmental education
- Innovative environmental research
HOW TO APPLY (U.S. ORGANIZATIONS)
If your nonprofit is based in the United States:
👉 Use the U.S. application page
👉 Applications are submitted online only
👉 Requests are reviewed during official grant cycles
2026 Grant Application Periods:
- February 1 – March 31
- August 1 – September 30
⚠️ Important note: The volume of applications has increased significantly, making this a highly competitive grant cycle.
Located in the United States? View the U.S. application page.
Review all criteria carefully before submitting.
FINAL WORD
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to get serious about grant funding—this is it.
The second funding track is opening soon, and strong organizations are already preparing.
This is not the season to rush.
This is the season to be strategic, aligned, and ready.
If you have questions, drop them in the comments. I’m here to help you position your organization the right way.
And don’t forget—more verified funding opportunities are coming. Stay connected.