Iowa Education Grants

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and municipal entities in Shelby County, Iowa, to support projects that improve community quality of life in areas such as health, education, and social services.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and municipal entities in Montgomery County, Iowa, to support impactful projects in areas like health, education, and community services.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and municipal entities in Audubon County, Iowa, for projects that enhance community life in areas such as health, education, culture, and social services.

Humanities Project Grants offer support for public humanities projects that encourage contemplation, spark conversation and engage the community. Donor Name: State Historical Society of Iowa State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: Eligible projects will use the humanities as the central resource to involve and benefit diverse groups of Iowans through educational programming that explore the human experience. Funding for the Humanities Project Grant is made possible by an appropriation from the National Endowment for the Humanities, a federal agency, to the Iowa Department of Administrative Services. The program is administered by the State Historical Society of Iowa on behalf of the department.  Funding Information Applicants may request funding for eligible one-time project expenses that are incurred and expended within the eligible funding period.  Minimum Grant Request: $2,500 Maximum Grant Request: $30,000 Funding Period All project activities and incurred expenses must occur within the eligible funding period of November 1, 2024–October 31, 2025. Eligible Projects Eligible projects should focus on the humanities and must demonstrate public value to Iowans through deliberate public engagement and access to project activities. Types of eligible projects could include community discussions, lecture series, workshops, films, interpretive exhibits, podcasts, etc. Projects that involve the creative or performing arts could be eligible as long as they are a catalyst in a project in which humanities are central, and include interpretation and/or discussion of performances, concerts, literary and art works. Humanities must be central to the project. Subject areas include archaeology, comparative religion, cultural anthropology, ethics, folklore, gender studies, history, jurisprudence, languages, law, linguistics, literature (including novels, poetry, drama, and other forms of written expression, both modern and classical), philosophy, and the interpretation (not the creation) of the arts. Aspects of the social sciences, such as political science and sociology, that can help to explore the humanity and discover meaning in the lives and community are also included.  Eligibility Criteria Eligible applicants must be one of the following types of entities. Entities who do not meet these requirements are not eligible to apply. Organizations Federally tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization incorporated and physically located in Iowa Physical location of the organization is defined as maintaining a current home office and registered agent address in Iowa defined by Iowa Code 490.501 as well as maintaining a primary staff presence physically located and working in Iowa Federally tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization physically located in a border state community immediately adjacent to Iowa. The organization must be registered to do business in Iowa with the Secretary of State’s office. An eligible border state organization must demonstrate that the funding request significantly impacts the cultural vitality of Iowa and predominantly serves Iowans. Unit of local, county or federally-recognized tribal government physically located in Iowa Units within institutions of higher education that are physically located in Iowa that have the humanities as their core mission and offer public programs are eligible. However, institutions of higher education are limited to one application, from one unit, and may neither apply for nor receive grant funds for multiple units. Individuals Individual filmmaker or humanities expert A humanities expert is defined as someone with an advanced degree in a humanities discipline or someone who is otherwise well-qualified to bring a humanities perspective, such as a historian, library or museum professional, culture bearer, or individual who is an acknowledged cultural expert within their community. Current, legal Iowa resident who is 21 years of age or older and physically located in Iowa Residence is defined by Iowa Code 422.4 and Iowa Administrative Code 701.38.17 (422) An application from an individual must support a project that is initiated and managed by the individual, not an organization. The project must be designed to benefit the individual and may not benefit an organization with which the individual applicant has a formal affiliation such as employment or volunteer service. Applicants who represent a group must apply as an individual and clearly state their individual role in the project proposal  For more information, visit State Historical Society of Iowa.

The Community Foundation of Johnson County is excited to announce the 5224GOOD Grants. Donor Name: Community Foundation of Johnson County State: Iowa County: Johnson County (IA) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: 5224GOOD is a learning and giving circle dedicated to educating their members about philanthropy and community needs in Johnson County through social and networking opportunities. 5224GOOD partners with the Community Foundation of Johnson County (CFJC) to manage the 5224GOOD Charitable Fund and the 5224GOOD Endowed Fund. For 2024, the granting focus area is Housing Insecurity. The 5224GOOD membership has been engaging with local organizations and learning about the issue of Housing Insecurity in Johnson County.  Types of Support This grant cycle is geared toward program/project support requests. Existing or new programs/projects will be considered. Collaborative projects are encouraged. Funding Information The maximum request amount per application is $25,000. They encourage applicants to request the full $25,000. Eligibility Criteria All applicants should fit the following criteria: 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, churches, the ICCSD, and government entities Those without a 501(c)3 status are encouraged to find a fiscal sponsor to apply Significantly serving Johnson County, Iowa Focus their work on Housing Insecurity For more information, visit CFJC.

This program provides funding to Iowa cities, counties, and land use districts for local historic preservation projects, including National Register nominations and educational initiatives.

This funding opportunity supports public humanities projects in Iowa that foster community engagement and educational programming about the human experience, available to individuals, nonprofits, local governments, and higher education institutions.

This program provides financial support for a variety of arts-related projects in Iowa, targeting organizations and initiatives that promote regional and statewide arts events or align with strategic arts goals.

This program provides training and support for small to mid-sized nonprofit organizations in Iowa focused on arts, culture, history, and humanities to help them overcome unique challenges.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (Iowa DNR) is accepting applications for its Trees for Kids Grant Program to educate children, teenagers, and young adults about the importance of trees and their myriad benefits, as well as to offer hands-on planting and maintenance experience. Donor Name: Iowa Department of Natural Resources (Iowa DNR) State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/26/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Iowa DNR funds to plant trees in public areas of communities (park, community center, public school, etc.) are available for this fall. Trees for Kids grants provides reimbursable grants to buy trees and mulch to help increase and diversify tree canopy. To that end, the program requires youth involvement in planting, mulching, and initial watering for all projects receiving funding. A DNR-led demonstration on proper planting, mulching and watering is required at the beginning of each event, and/or for each group involved in the project; projects that incorporate multiple groups working independently of one another will require multiple demonstrations. Funding Information A total of $50,000 in funds are available. Grant funding is competitive, non-match, and awarded in amounts of up to $2,500 per project. Eligibility Criteria Local and state governments such as school districts, cities, and counties, and service organizations with 501(c)3 status can apply for Trees for Kids funding. Service organizations lacking 501(c)3 status can attain eligibility by involving local governments in the holding of funds. Award money may ONLY be used for purchase of trees and mulch; shovels, buckets, gloves, saws, and other supplies, as well as any costs associated with digging, site preparation, and other labor, are NOT covered by grant funding. Projects MUST take place on public or private school grounds, or on public lands such as parks and right-of-ways. Plantings on private property other than private school grounds are NOT eligible for grant funding. For more information, visit Iowa DNR.

This funding program provides financial support to local organizations within 60 miles of Theisen’s stores that address essential needs for families and children, focusing on areas like food security, shelter, education, and health.

Donor Name: Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs (National Park Service) State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: Draft: August 9, 2024; Final: September 3, 2024 Size of the Grant: Not specified Grant Duration: Not specified Details/Overview: The Certified Local Government (CLG) grant program is open to Iowa cities, counties, and land use districts that have signed a CLG Agreement with the State of Iowa and the National Park Service. The grant supports historic preservation projects for CLGs in good standing and current with annual reports. Draft applications are due by August 9, 2024, and final applications by September 3, 2024.

Donor Name: Iowa Legislature (via REAP funds) State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: August 15, 2024 Size of the Grant: Not specified (Ceilings based on city size) Grant Duration: Not specified Details/Overview: The City Parks and Open Space Grant, funded by REAP, supports cities through competitive grants to develop parks and open spaces. Funded by gaming revenues, the grant excludes athletic fields, organized sports facilities, swimming pools, and playground equipment. Grants are distributed across cities of various sizes with no local matching funds required, and applications are due by August 15, 2024.

Donor Name: Iowa Legislature (via REAP funds) State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Cost-Share Grant Deadline: August 15, 2024 Size of the Grant: 75% of land acquisition costs covered by REAP Grant Duration: Not specified Details/Overview: One-tenth of the Open Spaces portion of REAP is dedicated to cost-sharing land acquisitions with private organizations, covering 75% of acquisition costs while the remaining 25% is funded through private contributions. This program allows private conservation groups to collaborate with the state to provide outdoor recreation and protect critical habitats, with the state managing the property on behalf of the public. Applications are due by August 15, 2024.

Donor Name: Iowa Legislature (via REAP funds) State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: August 15, 2024 Size of the Grant: Not specified (based on city size) Grant Duration: Not specified Details/Overview: The City Parks and Open Space Grant allocates 15% of REAP funds to cities through competitive grants, funded by gaming revenues. The program aims to support city parks and open spaces, excluding athletic fields, sports facilities, pools, and playgrounds. Grants are distributed across different city size categories, with applications due by August 15, 2024, and no local matching funds required.

Donor Name: Not specified State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: August 15, 2024 Size of the Grant: Not specified Grant Duration: Not specified Details/Overview: This grant program is available to Iowa counties that allocate at least 22¢ per $1,000 of taxable property value for conservation. Eligible projects include land acquisition, capital improvements, resource protection, and environmental education. The program excludes funding for sports complexes, playgrounds, and dog parks and has specific requirements for multi-use and biking trails. Applications must include detailed project descriptions, maps, budgets, and compliance with ADA and civil rights regulations, with submissions due by August 15, 2024.

Donor Name: Iowa Legislature (via REAP funds) State: Iowa County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: August 15, 2024 Size of the Grant: Not specified (based on city size) Grant Duration: Not specified Details/Overview: The City Parks and Open Space Grant allocates 15% of REAP funds to cities through competitive grants, funded by gaming revenues. It excludes athletic fields, organized sports facilities, pools, and playgrounds. Grants are distributed across city size categories, and no local matching funds are required. Applications are due by August 15, 2024.

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa has announced the Women’s Fund Grant Program to support organizations and programs benefiting women and girls in Black Hawk County. Donor Name: Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa State: Iowa County: Black Hawk County (IA) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Women’s Fund supports organizations and programs addressing issues that lead to long-term change for Black Hawk County women and girls. This grant opportunity provides funding in the following focus areas: Education and Literacy  Organizations and programs providing education and literacy to all ages that enhance the leadership, cognitive, and/or knowledge skills of women and girls. Educational opportunities for girls and women to learn and experience things that will expand skills leading to long-term economic, personal, and career development. Health and Healthcare Organizations and programs that concentrate on identifying and addressing healthcare issues specific to women and girls. Organizations that offer specialized programs addressing the mental, emotional, and/or physical health for women and girls. Poverty and Homelessness  Organizations and programs that address the unique challenges for women and girls dealing with poverty and homelessness. Programming that provides concrete assistance in obtaining housing, moving out of poverty, and creating long-term solutions to these issues. Violence and Safety  Organizations and programs that focus on the safety of women and girls within their community, homes, and schools. Violence prevention efforts include educating on the individual, institutional, and societal level through specific programming and advocacy strategies. Funding Priorities The Women’s Fund Committee prioritizes grant requests according to the following criteria: Requests that address barriers to racial equity and/or work to reverse the systems of racism for women and girls in Black Hawk County. Requests that address a critical and urgent need by fostering a solution-based approach. Requests for effective programming focused on creating significant and direct impact to women and girls in Black Hawk County. Requests that show innovative approaches to advancing women’s and girls’ growth and success. Requests that show other funding and/or community support or that will use this grant to leverage additional funding support Funding Information Request minimum is $5,000 and maximum is $20,000. Eligibility Criteria Organizations must provide benefits to women and girls of Black Hawk County and must meet the following criteria to apply for a grant: Be classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or be a government entity. Tax-exempt organizations classified as other than 501(c)(3) are also eligible if, and only if, the request is deemed charitable; Organizations with fiscal sponsors are eligible. Be current with all state and federal reporting requirements, such as filing of 990 forms. Must not have any past due grant reports for previous Women’s Fund grants. For more information, visit CFNEIA.

The Economic Development Match Grant is designed to bring other funders together, and to support economic development projects within Woodbury County that need potentially higher levels of funding and collaboration. Donor Name: Missouri River Historical Development State: Iowa County: Woodbury County (IA) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/30/2024 Size of the Grant: $500,000 to $1 million Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The project submitted must align with at least one of MRHD’s four economic development focus areas: creation and retention of jobs,  development of a critical job force,  new project or service having a substantial impact on the community, and  improved quality of life and community development project.  To be considered, proposals must: be sustainable after the allowable grant period and not require additional grants to maintain over the long term, The project outcomes should be clearly stated, measurable and if applicable, have a sound evaluation process.  be a demonstrated priority by the community (supporting evidence is required), This may be demonstrated in a variety of ways. Examples include survey results, studies or reports, and letters of support from stakeholders, government officials and community leaders.  exhibit an intention to be made available to citizens of Woodbury County. Proposals should demonstrate the lasting impact to the community and how the project will impact economic development in Woodbury County and/or the target population. leverage private, public and/or community resources and maximize collaboration with stakeholders throughout the community. Projects should demonstrate an effort to utilize local resources and community partners. include a project budget with line-item detail for expenditures and income. The project budget should be clearly laid out and supported by quotes, bids, or other documentation. It must also include evidence of the match, or how that support is attainable within required time to complete the project. be complete and concise. Proposals should include available images and marketing materials of the completed project along with their detailed description. Funding Information In total, $1,000,000 is available for the FY24 grant cycle. Maximum Award: $250,000 up to $1,000,000. Eligibility Criteria  Applications will only be accepted from educational entities, local governments, and tax-exempt organizations whose principal place of business and project are in Woodbury County, IA.    Tax-Exempt Organizations may only submit one (1) application per funding opportunity, whereas Local Governments and Educational Entities may submit more than one (1) application per funding opportunity as “individual units” within these organizations are considered separate and may each submit one (1) application per funding opportunity. Each funding request must be for a distinctly different project or a distinctly different phase of a larger, multi-phase project. For more information, visit MRHD.

Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa’s Black Hawk County Grants one-time grants awarded to organizations and projects that benefit residents of Black Hawk County, Iowa. Donor Name: Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa State: Iowa County: Black Hawk County (IA) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/15/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Areas Arts and Culture Access- Programs that offer new and expanded access to arts and cultural opportunities. Infrastructure– Programs and projects that protect history and make long-lasting impacts in the community. Talent Development- Programs that help grow the visual and performing creative class in their community Community Betterment Economic Development– Programs that create or expand businesses, create new jobs opportunities, and leverage outside financial support. Civic Engagement– Programs that support civic action, service learning, and cross-cultural understanding. Shared Amenities- Through the creation or expansion of public amenities like parks and trails, libraries, farmers’ markets, etc. Education and Youth Development Child Care-Programs that address the academic, health, and social/emotional needs of children pre-kindergarten. Mentorship-Through K-12 programs that provide guided and continuous mentoring, coaching, and teaching during or outside regular school hours that improve academic performance. Career Readiness- Through 9-12 programs that support postsecondary attainment and workforce readiness. Environment and Animal Welfare Conservation- Through projects that protect ecosystems and minimize their use of natural resources. Restoration- Through projects that work to re-establish the healthy functions of ecosystems. Education- Programs that foster a stronger awareness and understanding of environmental and sustainability issues. Health Case Management- Programs that provide guided and continuous behavioral healthcare and wellness services. Prevention- Programs that focus on education, physical health screening, and suicide prevention. Access- Programs that expand access to high-quality physical and mental healthcare Human Service Case Management- Through programs that help people overcome barriers to self-sufficiency. Prevention- Programs that focus on prevention of child abuse, violence, and substance abuse. Basic Needs- Programs that meet basic human needs of food, shelter, housing, transportation, and emergency assistance. The Community Foundation prioritizes requests that align with their community initiatives and program areas and embraces organizations that work to address two or more of these. The Community Foundation has identified community initiatives to provide focus on what we fund and how they spend the time in community initiatives and leadership. Those include: Advancing Racial Equity – They are committed to supporting organizations and initiatives that are BIPOC-led and/or support BIPOC populations. Expanding Child Care – They strive to increase equitable, accessible, and sustainable child care opportunities. Enhancing the Arts – They work to enrich and enhance an inclusive arts community that amplifies diverse voices and viewpoints. Strengthening Workforce Readiness – They support the community-wide need to create a more qualified, prepared workforce for the future. Building Nonprofit Capacity – They want to build the capacity of their nonprofit partners so their work is strengthened to serve their community well. Funding Information The majority of competitive grants range from $5,000 to $25,000. Eligibility Criteria Organizations must provide benefits to the people of Black Hawk County and meet the following criteria: Be classified as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization or be a government entity. Tax-exempt organizations classified as other than 501(c)(3) are also eligible if and only if the project is deemed charitable. For groups, projects, or initiatives that do not meet the above eligibility requirement, we will consider projects submitted through a fiscal sponsor. Fiscal sponsors must be classified as a 501(c)(3) or a government entity. CFNEIA prefers the fiscal sponsor’s mission closely align with the sponsored project. Applicants must be current with all state and federal reporting requirements. In addition, the following conditions must be met: Applicants must not have any past due grant reports for previous CFNEIA grants. Applicants with a separate supporting, eligible organization (like a “friends of” or a foundation) can apply through either the organization or through its supporting organization, but not both. The Foundation encourages applications to be submitted through the supporting organization. The Foundation will consider requests for capital campaigns but will not provide multiple grants (in subsequent years) for the same campaign. For more information, visit CFNEIA.