Code Girls United awarded $100,000 from Gianforte Family Foundation

The Gianforte Family Foundation has selected Code Girls United to receive a $100,000 grant supporting its work to expand the opportunities for computer science education in Montana. 

The foundation’s executive director, Catherine Koenen, said Code Girls United does a great job teaching young girls skills they will have throughout a lifetime. 

“Through in-person and online programs, and a new AI Academy this year, the organization is helping girls across Montana learn skills needed for jobs of the future in a fun and rewarding way," Koenen said. 

Grant funds will support Code Girls United’s 32 program classes, summer camps and online learning channel, Code Girls AI Academy. For the 2026-2027 program year, Code Girls will serve over 900 girls in rural and Tribal communities around Montana, in part, due to the support of foundations like the Gianforte Family Foundation who value our students’ futures. 

Code Girls United has been supported by The Gianforte Family Foundation since the organization’s founding in 2016. Code Girls United Founder and CEO, Marianne Smith, credits the foundation's financial investment in Code Girls United as critical to the organization’s success and ability to expand programming in rural and Tribal communities around the state. 

Founded in 2016, Code Girls United is a nonprofit organization providing free after-school programming for girls in grades 4 - 12 in Montana. Code Girls United’s mission is: To empower girls with technology literacy and business skills through engaging programs that build confidence and unlock future career opportunities. Additional students are always encouraged to join and are welcome to ask questions. 

For registration inquiries contact Marianne Smith: 406-470-0102. To learn more, visit www.codegirlsunited.org.