Northeast Montana · Local Governments · Organizations · Communities

Community Development

GNDC's Community Development program helps bring those ideas to life.

We work alongside local governments, organizations, civic groups, and residents to identify needs, connect resources, and support the planning, coordination, and implementation of projects that move communities forward.

This work also supports GNDC's Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, ensuring local projects align with broader goals for sustainable growth across the region.

Every community has ideas about how to grow, improve, and thrive

Community development looks different in every town. We work with:

City and county governments
Tribal governments and organizations
Nonprofits and civic groups
Economic development organizations
Residents and community coalitions

If you're trying to solve a problem or build something better in your community — and you're not sure where to start — that's exactly where we come in.

Who we Work With

what we Do

GNDC is supporting Garfield County's participation in the Montana Department of Commerce's Pilot Community Tourism Grant Program — helping communities plan and implement projects that enhance tourism, strengthen local assets, and promote sustainable economic growth. Through this effort, Grow Garfield County is identifying priorities and developing initiatives to improve visitor experiences while supporting long-term community vitality.

Tourism Development

GNDC is conducting a regional housing assessment to better understand housing needs across northeast Montana. The study examines demographic trends, rental and homeownership conditions, secondary homes, and gaps in workforce and community housing. Findings will help identify barriers to development and support a coordinated strategy for future housing efforts across the region.

Regional Housing Needs Assessment

We focus on practical solutions, shared goals, and empowering local leaders — helping communities plan for today and build for tomorrow.

Identifying the right funding source is half the battle. We help local governments, nonprofits, and organizations find grant opportunities, prepare strong applications, and manage reporting requirements so projects actually get funded and completed.

Grant Writing & Funding Support

GNDC administers Opportunities for Rural Economies (ORE) planning grants through the Montana Department of Commerce, helping rural communities and organizations access funding for planning projects that support economic development and growth.

ORE Planning Grants

Small towns often carry big projects with limited staff. We step in as a partner — helping manage timelines, coordinate contractors, navigate regulations, and keep projects moving from planning to completion.

Project Management & Technical Assistance

GNDC maintains a regional CEDS — a federally recognized planning document that helps communities and organizations align local projects with regional economic development priorities. Being part of the CEDS can strengthen grant applications and open doors to federal funding.

Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS)

From water systems to downtown revitalization, we help communities think through infrastructure needs, identify funding, and build the case for investment in projects that strengthen the community long-term.

Infrastructure Support

Grow Garfield County website

CEDS Report 2022-2027

(406)-653-2590 Ext 204

If you have a project idea, a funding question, or a community challenge you're trying to work through — reach out.

Not sure where to start? That's okay. The first step is just a conversation about what's possible.