The Winneshiek County Community Foundation (WCCF) offers annual competitive grants to support projects that enhance the quality of life in Winneshiek County, Iowa. The Foundation seeks to be a catalyst for community transformation and enrichment by encouraging charitable giving and supporting a variety of impactful projects. Funding is provided for projects that contribute to the community across multiple program areas, including arts and culture, community betterment, education and youth development, environment and animal welfare, and health and human services.
The Foundation is particularly focused on projects that help develop desirable communities and support both urban and rural areas of Winneshiek County. Grants are aimed at supporting organizations with a clear plan, well-developed implementation strategies, and the capacity to successfully manage and complete their proposed initiatives. Organizations are expected to present a clear community need and the potential for significant, measurable outcomes.
To be eligible, applicants must be a designated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or a government entity serving Winneshiek County. Other tax-exempt classifications may also be considered if the project is deemed charitable, though prior consultation with the Foundation is required. Fiscal sponsorship is an option for those not meeting direct eligibility criteria, provided the sponsor is a 501(c)(3) or government entity with a closely aligned mission. Only one application per organization is allowed, though government entities may apply per department.
Grant requests must range from a minimum of $2,000 to a maximum of $20,000. All applicants are required to submit a completed budget using the Foundation’s provided template and include bids or estimates for significant expenditures. Proposals are evaluated on organizational strength, feasibility, community need, budget clarity, anticipated outcomes, and innovation. Particular preference is given to proposals that have not previously received funding for the same initiative.
Applications for the 2026 grant cycle open on November 15, 2025, and are due by January 15, 2026, at 5:00 PM. All applications must be submitted via the Foundation’s online grant management system. Technical support will be available until the close of the deadline. Applicants will be notified of decisions in mid-March 2026, with awards presented at a ceremony in April. Grant reports for funded projects will be due by April 30, 2027.
For assistance, first-time applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation for guidance. The full guidelines and application materials can be found on the Foundation’s website at www.winneshiekccf.org.
