Target Grant

The Target Grant is administered by Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD), a regional philanthropic organization headquartered in Sioux City, Iowa. MRHD plays a vital role in enhancing community well-being by allocating charitable funding across a defined geographic area that spans portions of Iowa, South Dakota, and Nebraska. The Target Grant program reflects MRHD’s commitment to grassroots impact and community enhancement through responsive, small to mid-sized financial awards intended to meet critical local needs. Designed with flexibility and accessibility in mind, the program offers straightforward access to resources for projects that significantly enhance the quality of life for residents—particularly in Woodbury County, Iowa. The Target Grant is structured as an annual funding opportunity, with applications accepted during a defined window from March 1 to March 31 each year. Awards of up to $25,000 are distributed in full at an awards ceremony held in May. MRHD allocates a total of $500,000 in funding per cycle, providing upfront financial support without requiring cost share or matching contributions. This distinguishes the Target Grant from MRHD's other larger grant mechanisms, which often carry more complex funding conditions. Funding may be used for a range of purposes including program expansion, facility improvements, and the purchase of equipment, furnishings, and technology. Applicants must align their projects with one or more of MRHD’s five designated funding focus areas: Economic Development and Community Improvement, Human and Health Services, Civic and Charitable Endeavors, Leisure and Cultural Programming, and Education. Additionally, projects must demonstrate a clear impact on the quality of life for residents of Woodbury County, even if the grantee is located in another eligible county within the funding region. This stipulation ensures that MRHD’s resources consistently benefit its core service population. Eligible applicants include Educational Entities, Local Governments, and Tax-Exempt Organizations whose principal place of business and the proposed project are located within the designated Geographic Funding Area. This area includes Woodbury, Cherokee, Crawford, Ida, Monona, and Plymouth Counties in Iowa; Union County in South Dakota; and Dakota County in Nebraska. Tax-exempt applicants are limited to one application per funding opportunity, while Educational Entities and Local Governments may submit multiple applications from different units, provided each project is distinct. The application process is conducted entirely online via MRHD’s Grant Portal. Required documentation varies by applicant type but commonly includes IRS verification of EIN, determination letters, and signed Letters of Intent from authorized officials approving the project and accepting MRHD funds. Projects involving collaborations must include Letters of Agreement from all partners, and any relationships with vendors, suppliers, or contractors must be disclosed. Grants are performance-based with a 12-month completion requirement, and all grantees must submit a Grant Completion Form upon project finalization. Extensions or amendments to the original scope must be approved in writing by MRHD. Projects that benefit other nonprofits, serve as replacements for existing budgeted funds, or involve prohibited uses such as political activities, salaries, or office operations, are ineligible. MRHD maintains strict compliance standards, and failure to adhere to grant terms may disqualify applicants from future funding. The Target Grant thus offers a highly structured but accessible pathway for community organizations seeking timely and impactful financial support for local improvement projects.