C&B Better Initiative

The C&B Better Initiative is a community grant program facilitated by the employees of Cottingham & Butler (C&B), a Dubuque-based organization with a strong culture of philanthropy. This initiative is part of the company’s broader commitment to social responsibility and reflects its mission of "better every day." Employees at C&B have long engaged in community service and charitable activities, and this grant opportunity formalizes that giving spirit into a structured and impactful funding stream for nonprofits within Dubuque County. The primary purpose of the C&B Better Initiative is to support nonprofit projects that align with C&B’s core values, contributing to health, economic empowerment, social inclusion, and community development. By doing so, the initiative aims to strengthen communities and promote long-term positive outcomes for residents in Dubuque County. It is a targeted program available only to nonprofits that are either located in or serve residents of Dubuque County, Iowa. Each year, C&B team members play an active role in the selection process. A key feature of this grant cycle is the opportunity for C&B employees to review and vote on applicants, ultimately selecting one organization to receive a one-time grant award of $25,000. Additionally, two more organizations will be chosen to receive grants of up to $15,000 and $10,000, respectively. The grant funds are designed to support a broad array of projects across several categories, including health and wellness, access to education and financial resources, community revitalization, and programs promoting diversity and inclusion. Preference is given to projects that address any of the following categories: health, education, and economic empowerment; social awareness and inclusion; and community development and relationship building. Projects may span multiple categories and may include initiatives such as access to healthcare, food security, shelter, job training, youth mentorship, and safe recreation spaces. Applications for the current grant cycle open on June 1 and are due by July 6. The fund is not rolling, but it is offered on an annual basis, making it a recurring opportunity for nonprofits to apply each year. Although the application form is not described in detail in the source, applicants are encouraged to prepare a project that fits clearly within the stated priorities and to make use of available resources such as the C&B Better Application Budget Template. Support is available during regular office hours from the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque, which manages the grant platform GOapply. For application support or inquiries, applicants can reach out to the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque via grants@dbqfoundation.org or call (563) 588-2700. Office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm and Friday from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. The foundation's physical office is located at the Roshek Building, Suite 195, 700 Locust Street, Dubuque, IA 52001.