Program Support Grant

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation offers Program Support Grants to sustain ongoing nonprofit initiatives and to foster new, innovative programs that serve Linn County, Iowa. These grants are a key part of the Foundation’s mission to support organizations dedicated to improving community well-being, equity, and access to resources. Applicants can request funding to maintain current services or launch new projects that address emerging community needs, with a focus on measurable outcomes and local impact. Eligibility for Program Support Grants is open to nonprofit organizations holding current 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, governmental entities, and other organizations working under a fiscal sponsorship agreement with a qualifying nonprofit. While applicants may be based outside of Linn County, all proposed activities and funding must benefit Linn County directly. Organizations may also apply collaboratively but are encouraged to consult with the program officer before submission. A streamlined application is available for smaller organizations headquartered in Linn County with budgets under $125,000, requesting $5,000 or less for a one-year project. Grants range from 12 to 24 months in duration, with maximum annual request limits of $25,000 for organizations with budgets above $125,000. Smaller organizations can request up to 20% of their operating budget. New initiatives are restricted to one-year requests. Certain activities are ineligible, including fundraising efforts, religious programming, scholarships, retroactive or review-period expenses, out-of-region travel, re-granting, and capital projects. Organizations currently holding an active Program Support Grant must wait for their cycle to end before reapplying. Applications are submitted online through the Community Foundation’s portal. Key required documents include a detailed budget, financial statements (balance sheet and income statement), and optionally up to six pages of supporting materials. The application includes comprehensive questions on project design, community impact, organizational equity practices, and evaluation plans. Projects are scored using a 25-point matrix that emphasizes operational clarity, mission alignment, financial and governance readiness, and equitable service delivery. The 2026 deadlines for Program Support Grants are Friday, March 6 and Friday, September 11, both at 4:30 p.m. Central Time. Applications undergo a ten-week review process. Organizations with time extensions on prior grants must confirm eligibility before applying. The Foundation emphasizes equity in its grantmaking and encourages applicants to demonstrate their commitment through employment practices, service delivery, and organizational planning. Questions should be directed to Program Officer Sanjana Raghavan at sanjana.raghavan@gcrcf.org or 319.200.2279.

Align proposal with community impact and equity goals; budget accuracy and clarity emphasized; avoid ineligible expenses