The Bentley Foundation
The organization is a private foundation dedicated to philanthropic purposes, primarily supporting local charities and community initiatives. It focuses on a range of causes including animal welfare, youth development, and human services, reflecting a commitment to enhancing community well-being. The foundation provides grants to various organizations, with a notable emphasis on supporting nonprofits that serve vulnerable populations and promote community service. It primarily operates within Montana, contributing to local charities and initiatives that align with its mission of fostering positive social impact.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
Ideal Applicant
A Montana-based nonprofit or community organization with demonstrated local impact—particularly in community services, animal welfare, youth or human services—seeking grants in the $5K–$50K range and able to make a direct local introduction or contact.
Good Fit
- • Organization is located in Montana and serves local communities.
- • Project or operating request matches historical award sizes (roughly $5,000–$50,000).
- • Clear, tangible community service or animal/welfare focus.
- • Ability to make a direct approach via the named phone/address or through a local introduction.
- • Track record of impact and basic nonprofit status (501(c)(3)).
Geography
Observed giving across all available years is exclusively to Montana recipients, with only one state represented and 100% of dollars staying in-state.
Recipient Variety
The foundation funded a moderate set of independent organizations each year (9 in 2022, 6 in 2023, 7 in 2024) with some repeat grantees (four recurring recipients) but a mix of new entrants as well.
New Applicants
Direct evidence shows new recipients in recent years (two new in 2023 and three new in 2024), and a public application cue ('contact foundation') plus a named contact and phone/address, all suggesting unfamiliar local applicants have a realistic path into the portfolio.
Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026
