First Interstate Foundation only considers projects that have a significant impact within the communities First Interstate BancSystem serves in Montana and Wyoming.

The local First Interstate Bank branches will recommend projects to the Foundation in order to seek matching funds for their donations to local projects.

Unsolicited grant applications will be referred to branches.

Requests are reviewed continually.

Please review the steps of our application process:

Step 1 - Make sure your organization falls within First Interstate BancSystem Foundation Guidelines.

Step 2 - Send a one to two page Letter of Inquiry (LOI) to the local First Interstate Branch.

• Your LOI should be no longer than two pages and must contain the following information.
• Name, address, e-mail address and telephone number for organization and for the primary contact.
• The mission or a brief background statement of the organization.
• Project description and outcomes.
• The amount requested and project budget.
• Please do not submit additional items such as binders, brochures, audio material, etc.

Step 3 - Additional information such as: Board list, staff list, current operating budget, two most recent 990’s (tax returns), copy of 501(c) may be requested, depending on the project.

Step 4 - The local First Interstate Bank branch will review your LOI. The branch will send you an award or declination letter. The local FIB Branch may contact First Interstate BancSystem Foundation for possible matching funds.

Step 5 - The FIB Foundation will review the proposal along with the Branch’s recommendations. If any additional information is required ,you will be contacted. After complete review, an award letter or declination letter will be sent by the Foundation.

Grant Guidelines Apply

What's the next step?

Stop by a local branch: Select Your Location BelgradeBigforkBillingsBozemanBuffaloCasperCheyenneColstrip EurekaGardinerGilletteGreat FallsHamiltonHardinHelenaJacksonKalispellLame DeerLanderLaramieLivingstonMiles CityMillsMissoulaPolsonRed LodgeRivertonSheridanWhitefish

Mission Statement

The Mission of First Interstate Foundation is to assist the First Interstate Bank family in being the premier corporate citizen in the communities we serve. The Foundation achieves this by carrying out First Interstate’s Commitment to Community. We provide resources and leadership to civic and community projects, education, arts and culture, health and human services and community development efforts.