Montana is a rich and vibrant state with endless rivers, mountains, and adventures at every turn. Most commonly referred to as the ‘Big Sky State’, it spans just over 150,000 square miles—with an average of fewer than 7 people per square mile. This vastness is acutely felt by any organization working to build community across the expansive region. 

With pockets of supportive communities moving toward greater equity and support for LGBTQ+ people, Montana continues to have high rates of bullying, suicide, and family rejection for LGBTQ+ youth. Recent attacks on the rights of trans and gender diverse communities have sparked increased systems of support and leadership throughout the state and nationally.

Despite these obstacles, effective, coordinated, and innovative work is underway to advance opportunities and support for Montana’s LGBTQ+ communities.

Montana Initiatives

Open To All

This supportive business initiative is a multi-faceted, business-driven project of Pride Foundation working to support the businesses that support our community—and, through these efforts, create a safer and more welcoming Montana.

See full list of participating businesses

LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness

An initiative to fund innovative, collaborative approaches that address the unique needs of LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness in Montana.

Montana Stories

Current Montana Scholars

Name School Area of Study
Lauren Clairmont Salish Kootenai College Salish Language Elementary & Teacher Education
Leo Dion University of Wyoming Art History & Art Education
Autumn Harmon Post University Psychology
Idella Layton University Of Montana- Missoula College Psychology
Polly Preston Salish Kootenai College Psychology
Marcus Willason Montana State University Billings Special Education

Current Montana Grantees

Organization Name City, State Website
406 Pride Billings, Montana Visit
ASPEN Livingston, Montana Visit
Big Sky Out Big Sky, Montana Visit
EmpowerMT Missoula, Montana Visit
Forward Montana Foundation Missoula, Montana Visit
Glacier Queer Alliance Kalispell, Montana Visit
Great Falls LGBTQ+ Center Great Falls, Montana Visit
Haven Bozeman, Montana Visit
Montana Queer Alliance Helena, Montana Visit
Montana Two Spirit Society Missoula, Montana Visit
Open Aid Alliance Missoula, Montana Visit
Western Montana LGBTQ+ Community Center Missoula, Montana Visit
YWCA Missoula Missoula, Montana Visit

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