Nonprofits are essential partners to government, delivering a wide range of publicly funded programs and services across Montana. At the same time, we know that contracting with government, here in Montana and nationally, can be complex, time-consuming, and challenging.
Partnerships with state government are common across Montana’s nonprofit sector. In MNA’s recent member survey, more than 50% of respondents reported currently holding state contracts or grants, and another 12% previously received state funding. Through these partnerships, nonprofits help Montanans meet basic needs, support arts and cultural enrichment, maintain public lands and outdoor spaces, and much more.
Given the scope and impact of this work, MNA wants to understand how state contracting is working and where there may be opportunities to make things work a little better – benefitting nonprofits, state agencies, and the communities we serve.
Across the country, nonprofits and state agencies are exploring ways to streamline processes and strengthen partnerships. Areas of focus include:
- Prompt payment requirements
- Ensuring sufficient administrative and in-direct cost coverage
- Opportunities for upfront or advance payments
- Simplifying RFP and reporting requirements
- Contract terms that reflect inflation and cost of living increases
- Access to technical assistance for nonprofit contract partners
- Improved processes for contract renewals and extensions
We want to hear from you!
Have you worked with state contracts or grants? Please share your input below. This brief survey is the first step in a larger conversation about how Montana nonprofits can better access and navigate state contracting opportunities. We’ll use what we learn to strengthen relationships with state agencies, work to streamline administrative processes, and identify policy priorities for the 2027 session.