UM Big Give 2026 Raises $435K in Donations

The University of Montana just wrapped up its annual "Big Give." Every year, UM and several schools across the country hold their "Big Give" fundraiser to make a focused push to raise money for multiple departments.

"The University of Montana community came together to strengthen programs and empower students to lead with purpose. You have made a lasting impact, fueling opportunity, creativity and connection across campus and beyond. Thank you for opening doors for students during this year’s Big Give," - University of Montana Foundation's Big Give

This year's Big Give came close to last year's total of nearly half a million dollars.

Montana's Big Give Totals for 2026

The University of Montana raised $435,068 through the two-day fundraising event, thanks to 683 donors. There were six projects that you could donate to this year. Here are the projects and how much each received in donations.

The Excellence Fund (which helps in classroom renovations and overall campus-wide projects) raked in $13,867 from 88 donors.

Credit: Tan Curtis (TSM Media Center)

Academic Programs (which consist of the University's different colleges, like Humanities and Social Sciences, Arts and Media, etc.) racked up $268,573 from 316 donors.
The Flathead Lake Biological Station led the Academic Program charge with $57,775.

Student Success (which features the Curry Health Center, Military and Veteran Services, the UM Food Pantry, etc.) totaled $18,209 from 90 donors.
Campus and Community (which features Montana Public Radio, the Museum of Art and Culture, etc.) brought in $37,510 thanks to 56 donors.
Athletics (I think this is self-explanatory) hauled in $61,142 from 125 donors.

Washington-Grizzly Stadium. Credit: Ace Sauerwein