North Liberty Targeted Economic Development Grant Program

The North Liberty Targeted Economic Development Grant Program is a collaborative initiative between Greater Iowa City, Inc. and the City of North Liberty, Iowa, designed to promote economic growth and support small businesses within the local area. Funded through an allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, this program is focused on encouraging the expansion of existing businesses and the relocation of home-based businesses to commercial locations within North Liberty. By providing targeted financial assistance and business development support, the program seeks to enhance commercial spaces, stimulate economic activity, and foster sustainable business growth in the region. Administered by Greater Iowa City, Inc., the program offers two distinct types of grants to locally-owned and operated small businesses. The Tenant Improvement Support Grant provides up to $10,000 in matching funds for businesses making physical improvements to commercial spaces in North Liberty. Eligible projects include facade renovations, build-outs, and installation of affixed fixtures, with grantees required to contribute a 50% cash match. Alternatively, the Home-Based Business Upgrade Support Grant offers up to $10,000 in rental assistance, without a match requirement, to assist businesses transitioning from residential operations into the North Liberty CoLab—a shared business workspace designed to support collaboration and innovation. A total of $85,000 in funding is available under the grant program, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis starting January 5, 2026. Grants will be awarded until all funds are allocated or until July 1, 2026, whichever occurs first. Given the limited funding pool, early application is encouraged. The program also emphasizes accountability and ongoing support. Grant recipients are required to participate in at least 10 hours of business mentoring provided by Greater Iowa City, Inc. at designated support centers, such as the Business Resource Center or MERGE. This component ensures that recipients are equipped with the knowledge and guidance to succeed post-award. Recipients are also expected to comply with reporting and transparency requirements. These include submitting progress updates, tracking key performance metrics, and participating in efforts to assess and improve the program’s impact on the local business community. Additionally, awardees must provide all required legal business documentation and sign a formal grant agreement to confirm their compliance with the terms of the award. The grant’s federal funding source also requires adherence to ARPA-specific reporting guidelines, ensuring accountability in the use of public funds. Eligibility for the program depends on the grant type. For the Tenant Improvement Support Grant, applicants must own or be starting a for-profit business in North Liberty, Iowa, with legal authority to make structural modifications to their business premises. A 50% funding match is required. For the Home-Based Business Upgrade Support Grant, applicants must operate a for-profit business from a North Liberty residential property without a secondary office and must relocate to the North Liberty CoLab to qualify. Franchisees are not eligible for either grant. To apply, businesses should first review the eligibility criteria and then complete the online application form. Following submission, Greater Iowa City, Inc. staff will engage with applicants to discuss their business needs and guide them through the next steps. Funding decisions are made by the program administrators, and applicants must submit final documentation as part of the closing process. Additional guidance and support are available throughout the application period. For inquiries, applicants may contact Evan Doyle, Community & Economic Development Program Manager, at [email protected].