MAPS Media Institute Inc.

MAPS, est. in 2004, is a 501c3 educational nonprofit empowering Montana’s next generation through media arts instruction, community service, and compassionate mentorship. Operating 3 year-round studios, with statewide outreach through the MAPS Media Lab, we offer free hands-on education in film, design, music, podcasting, photojournalism, and new technologies for youth ages 14-24. We prioritize rural, low-income, and Native Indigenous communities, creating spaces where young people develop technical and social-emotional skills while sharing their stories. MAPS curricula, designed by licensed MT educators and taught by professional artists with Class 4 licenses, align with national/state Media Arts standards and MT Indian Education For All. Students gain vital skills in communication, creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking through project-based learning. MAPS’s impact includes the 2023 NATAS NW Governors Award and the 2017 National Arts and Humanities Youth Programs Award.

MAPS addresses critical gaps in rural Montana's educational and workforce development landscape. Many rural and Native Indigenous communities lack access to current technology, professional equipment, and industry-standard instruction, hindering both educational and career opportunities. Montana's job market increasingly demands digital literacy and media skills, yet many communities lack resources to prepare youth for these opportunities. MAPS provides free professional media arts education and career-readiness training, bringing technology directly to underserved areas. Through hands-on learning and client projects, students develop marketable skills in digital media, project management, and professional communication. Our programs create pathways to careers in Montana's creative sectors while empowering youth to become confident communicators and engaged community members.

Fort Belknap Program (est. 2024): MAPS-Fort Belknap provides free year-round media arts education to youth in the Fort Belknap Indian Community (FBIC) in north-central Montana, serving three public school districts plus private and homeschooled students. The program emerged from six years of successful partnership and award-winning projects between MAPS and FBIC. Operating 32 weeks after school and 6 weeks in summer, the program offers specialized education in filmmaking, graphic design, music production, podcasting, and new technologies. Classes integrate media arts with cultural histories, languages, and traditions as students work alongside Nakoda and Aaniiih educators and Knowledge Carriers. The program aims to strengthen cultural identity, provide STEAM-based education, cultivate creativity, foster mentorship, empower storytelling, develop workforce skills, and create innovative opportunities. MAPS-Fort Belknap represents a long-term commitment to serving Native Indigenous youth.

MAPS-Lewis & Clark County Program (est. 2019): Delivers professional media arts education through 32-week after-school and 6-week summer programs serving youth from two public school districts, private schools, and homeschool communities in Helena and East Helena. This free program provides hands-on instruction in filmmaking, design, music production, and new media technologies. The program creates an inclusive learning environment where students develop technical skills while building social-emotional competencies. Through project-based learning, youth collaborate on creative work that addresses community issues and promotes civic engagement. Students gain valuable experience using professional equipment under the guidance of licensed teaching artists, preparing them for future educational and career opportunities. The program emphasizes developing essential skills, including communication, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, while fostering meaningful mentorship relationships.

MAPS-Ravalli County Program: Our founding program est. in 2004, has provided free media arts education to rural Montana youth for 2 decades. Operating 32 weeks after school and 6 weeks in summer, the program serves students from five public school districts, private schools, and homeschool communities in the Bitterroot Valley. Based in Hamilton, this comprehensive program offers film, design, music production, and emerging tech instruction. Students work with professional equipment and licensed teaching artists to create meaningful media projects that address community needs and celebrate local stories. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, creative expression, and future-ready skill development. MAPS-Ravalli provides unique opportunities for rural youth to access quality arts education, develop technical and social-emotional skills, and prepare for future success while contributing to their communities.

MAPS Media Lab Program: The MAPS Media Lab, est. 2017, is our statewide educational outreach program, facilitating intentional media projects with youth in Montana's tribal and rural communities. This mobile program brings MAPS professional equipment and instructors to underserved areas, adapting to each community's unique needs and cultural context. Projects range from short intensive workshops to multi-week collaborations, focusing on film, photography, and digital storytelling. The program empowers youth to share their stories while building technical skills, strengthening community connections, and preserving cultural heritage through media arts. The Media Lab works closely with tribal communities, following appropriate protocols and consulting with cultural leaders to ensure respectful engagement. Notable projects include:

• Water rights documentaries with Fort Belknap youth
• Cultural event documentation with Blackfeet Community College
• Urban Indigenous documentary workshop with Billings students.

The Client Productions Program: est. 2004, provides real-world experience for youth ages 14-24 through creative collaborations with local nonprofits and businesses. Students use their film, photography, and web design skills to produce professional media content for community partners. Working directly with clients, youth learn the complete creative process - from initial concept development through final delivery. Projects include promotional videos, websites, social media content, and graphic design work that help organizations expand their reach and visibility. The program emphasizes career readiness, project management, client communication, and using media for positive social impact. Through these meaningful collaborations, youth develop confidence and marketable skills while helping local organizations tell their stories and achieve their missions.