Overview

The MSU IoE invites proposals for small seed grants to support community-engaged, educational, and outreach projects focused on Montana’s social-ecological systems. These awards are intended to foster meaningful partnerships, enhance public understanding of environmental issues, and strengthen connections between MSU and communities. This award amount is for up to $10,000 for the project period of June 1, 2026, through May 31, 2027, with the funds to be fully utilized during this cycle. Funds may be used to support reasonable and necessary project costs, including: personnel support (e.g., salary, wages, or stipends proportional to project effort), participant support costs (e.g., stipends, travel, meals, accessibility accommodations), materials, supplies, and outreach production costs, local travel directly related to project activities, contracted services or facilitation fees, and a 6% direct costs fee.

The Montana State University Institute on Ecosystems (IoE) connects researchers tackling environmental challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration that bridges science, education, and community perspectives. Our work spans Montana’s diverse socio-ecological systems—from working lands and community health to climate resilience, biodiversity, and water systems—grounded in place-based research and a commitment to collaboration and training.

Apply on InfoReady

Eligibility

  • MSU faculty (including tenure track and non-tenure track research, Extension, and teaching faculty)
  • Proposals involving multiple disciplines, students, and community partners are strongly encouraged
  • Projects must be primarily based in Montana

Proposal Requirements

  • Budget and Justification
  • CV(s) (2 pages)
  • Project Narrative (2 pages):
    • Project goals and significance
    • Description of community partners and engagement approach
    • Interdisciplinary components
    • Anticipated outcomes and impacts
    • Timeline

Review Criteria

  • Alignment with IoE mission
  • Strength and authenticity of community engagement
  • Interdisciplinary collaboration
  • Feasibility and clarity of project plan
  • Potential for lasting impact
  • Potential to attract additional extramural funding
  • Inclusion of students and early-career scholars

Materials should be submitted on InfoReady by April 30, 2026 at 5 PM MST.