Operations and Programs Grant Program

The Quad Cities Community Foundation administers the Operations and Programs Grants to support nonprofit organizations in Scott County, Iowa, and Rock Island County, Illinois, with some funding also available to organizations within a 60-mile radius of Rock Island, Illinois, through the Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund. The Foundation is a private nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the region through philanthropy and effective grantmaking. The purpose of this grant program is to provide flexible funding through either general operating support or program-specific support. General operating support is prioritized due to its critical role in ensuring long-term sustainability of nonprofit organizations. The grant program aligns with strategic grantmaking practices and honors the intent of individual fund donors. Funding is drawn from multiple field of interest funds, including those focused on animals and the environment, arts and culture, community development, education, health, and youth development. Applicants can select one or more of these fields when submitting their application. Organizations may request one-year or two-year grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 per year, with total requests for two-year grants ranging from $10,000 to $40,000. All applications are reviewed for alignment with fund purposes and demonstrated community impact. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations located in Scott County, Iowa, Rock Island County, Illinois, or within the specified radius for the Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund. Organizations that received a two-year grant from this program in the prior calendar year are ineligible. Applications from non-501(c)(3) organizations and K-12 schools are not eligible for the Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund. All applicants must adhere to the Foundation’s Diversity and Non-Discrimination Policy. The application must be submitted through the Foundation’s online grants database, and paper or emailed submissions are not accepted. Required application components include organizational and program information, financial documentation, and demonstration of how the grant will support community needs and advance equity. A final report will be required through the online system at the end of the grant period. The application period opens June 1 and closes July 15, with award notifications issued by September 1. The grant is offered annually, and the next cycle is expected to open in June 2026. For questions or assistance, applicants may contact Ann Berger at (563) 326-2840.