Montana Department Of Commerce Allocates Tribal Tourism Grants

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that two Montana tribal governments will share $100,000 of grant funding to develop, expand and strengthen local tribal tourism assets and economies. The grant funding is provided through Commerce’s Tribal Tourism Grant Program.

“Commerce’s Tribal Tourism Grants support the development and improvement of shovel-ready tourism industry tribal projects such as niche product development, visitor facilities and venue upgrades and construction,” said Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio.

Tribes that will receive TTG funding:

• Blackfeet Nation will receive $50,000 for repairs and upgrades to tribally owned campgrounds in multiple locations.
• Fort Belknap Indian Community will receive $50,000 for repairs, mobility improvements and upgrades to the Milk River Indian Days arbor site in Fort Belknap Agency.

In 2024, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes received $50,000 in TTG funding for critical repairs and improvements to The Bison on Flathead Lake vacation rental property.

CSKT Planning Director Janet Camel said, “The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Economic Development Office truly appreciates the funding and administrative support provided by Montana’s Tribal Tourism Grant. This funding allowed us to make critical repairs at our vacation rental property on Flathead Lake, including a new roof, windows, heater and stairway that provides easier access to the shore. Commerce’s Tribal Tourism staff were readily available to assist us throughout the project.”

The TTG Program operates on a reimbursement system with a 50% tribal matching requirement. Eligible projects must be shovel-ready and demonstrate a long-lasting investment on the part of the State and the Tribe.

For more information, visit commerce.mt.gov.