Greene County Community Foundation Grant

The Greene County Community Foundation (GCCF) is a local philanthropic organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Greene County, Iowa. The Foundation operates with the mission of fostering private giving, strengthening service providers, and improving the overall well-being of residents throughout the county. It accomplishes this through the management of a local endowment fund and the annual distribution of grants aimed at community development, health, education, safety, and economic vitality. Since its inception, the Foundation has played a critical role in providing financial support to projects that contribute to a stronger, more livable community. Each year, GCCF opens a grant cycle specifically designed to support nonprofit organizations, local government entities (including municipalities, counties, and school districts), and groups sponsored by qualifying fiscal sponsors. Eligible applicants must serve residents within Greene County, and all funded projects must take place within the county. Typical funding priorities include programs that support strong families, youth and recreational activities, elder care services, community health and education, emergency services, job creation, tourism, and efforts that improve the county’s overall attractiveness and cohesion. Religious, political, or private fundraising activities, as well as general operating expenses, are not eligible for funding. The 2026 grant application will be available for download or email request starting November 1, 2025. The application submission deadline is February 13, 2026, by 4:00 PM CST. Applicants may submit digitally via email to [email protected]. Physical copies may also be mailed or hand-delivered, but hard copy submissions must include two complete application packets. If hand delivering, submissions should be brought to Journey Financial, LLC’s office in Jefferson, Iowa, by the specified deadline. All submitted materials become public documents and must be complete to be considered. Applicants must provide a detailed project description, a project budget, and demonstrate that at least 25% of the total project cost is covered through matching funds. GCCF will not fund more than 75% of a project’s cost. Letters of support and documentation of matching funds are encouraged. Nonprofit applicants are required to submit a current Certificate of Existence from the Iowa Secretary of State and may also need to provide IRS designation letters and recent 990 or 990-N filings. Award announcements are typically made in April. Grant recipients are required to recognize the Foundation in any project-related publicity and are expected to attend an awards night event. All grantees must complete a Project Completion Form by January 31 of the year following the award. Failure to submit this report renders the organization ineligible for future funding. Funded projects are typically expected to be completed within the calendar year of the award. The maximum grant request to the Greene County Community Foundation is $35,000. Projects requiring more than this amount must apply through Grow Greene County, a separate funding entity. The GCCF encourages inclusive applications and welcomes inquiries regarding fiscal sponsorships and endowment opportunities for organizations interested in long-term sustainability.

Obtain match documentation early. Submit two full hard copies if mailing or delivering. Public acknowledgment and project reporting required.