Iowa Local Grants

The City of Dubuque’s Small Business Support Grant is a program designed to assist small business owners with operating costs, offering up to $5,000 in reimbursement for eligible expenses. The program's core goal is to cover immediate business expenses while simultaneously equipping business owners with strategies for sustained success. The City partners with the Fountain of Youth Program to administer the grant, integrating a developmental component into the financial aid. The grant targets small business owners residing within the City of Dubuque limits. Eligible businesses must have fewer than five employees, have been operational for at least 12 months, and the applicant must have filed their 2022 and/or 2023 personal and business income taxes. A key criterion for eligibility is that the applicant must be an individual from a low- to moderate-income household, ensuring the support reaches those who need it most within the community. The program's priorities and focus are twofold: providing short-term financial assistance and fostering long-term business improvement. Recipients are required to participate in an eight-week personal and professional development program facilitated by Fountain of Youth and will be matched with a business mentor. This structured support aims to help business owners enhance their practices and increase their income, moving beyond just immediate financial relief. Expected outcomes include not only the continued operation of businesses due to covered expenses but also improved business practices and increased income for participating owners. The reimbursement model, contingent on participation in personal and professional development activities, reinforces the program's commitment to both immediate aid and sustainable growth. The grant details do not mention a specific "foundation" or its mission alignment, strategic priorities, or theory of change, as this is a city-run grant program.

This funding opportunity is designed to support local nonprofits, government entities, and public school agencies in Buena Vista County with various project needs.

The City of Marion is offering a grant program for non-profit organizations to increase tourism within Marion. The funding for these grants comes from the city's share of taxes collected on overnight stays at local hotels and motels. Approximately $50,000 is expected to be available for this competitive grant program in the 2024-2025 fiscal year. This initiative aligns with the city's broader mission to enhance local economic activity and community vibrancy through strategic tourism development. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit organizations that can propose projects directly contributing to tourism growth in Marion. The impact goal is to significantly boost the number of visitors and tourism-related revenue within the city. This will be achieved by supporting projects that create new attractions, enhance existing ones, or promote Marion as a desirable travel destination. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate a clear potential to attract tourists and generate economic benefits for the city. While the specific focuses are not explicitly detailed beyond increasing tourism, it implies an emphasis on innovative and engaging initiatives that highlight Marion's unique appeal. Eligibility is limited to non-profit organizations, ensuring that the funded projects serve a public benefit. Expected outcomes include an increase in tourist numbers, higher occupancy rates for hotels and motels, and an overall boost in local commerce. Measurable results will likely be assessed through metrics such as visitor statistics, tourism-related tax revenue increases, and the number of new or enhanced tourism offerings. The City of Marion's strategic priority is to leverage its tax revenues from overnight stays to reinvest in the local tourism infrastructure, operating under the theory of change that direct investment in tourism initiatives will lead to a proportional increase in economic benefits for the community.

The 2024 Dickinson County Endowment Fund (DCEF) grant program is now accepting applications. This grant, with individual awards of less than $1000 and a minimum request of $500, is designed to support various projects within Dickinson County, Iowa. The program's mission is to foster civic, educational, public, charitable, patriotic, or religious initiatives that directly benefit the residents of Dickinson County. The deadline for applications is June 30, 2024. Target beneficiaries for this grant program include charitable, non-profit groups and organizations, specifically those with 501(C)(3) or 170(b) designations as units of government organizations. Groups without these designations can still apply through a qualified fiscal agent, ensuring broad access for community-focused efforts. The primary impact goal is to enhance the quality of life and address specific needs within the county through community-driven projects. The DCEF's priorities and focus areas are broadly defined to encompass a wide range of community needs, including civic engagement, educational advancement, public welfare improvements, charitable services, patriotic endeavors, and religious programs. This broad scope allows for diverse projects that cater to the unique fabric of Dickinson County. However, the fund explicitly does not support "for-profit" entities, annual campaigns, endowments, or any projects that do not directly serve Dickinson County residents, ensuring resources are directed towards public benefit within the specified geographic area. Expected outcomes and measurable results for successful projects should demonstrate a tangible benefit to the community in one or more of the prioritized areas. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided information, applicants are implicitly encouraged to propose projects with clear objectives and a demonstrable positive impact on Dickinson County residents. The foundation's strategic priority is to act as a catalyst for community development and improvement by providing financial support to local organizations and initiatives, thereby strengthening the social and civic infrastructure of the county.

This grant provides funding for community projects in Humboldt County that enhance arts, health, education, environmental initiatives, and social services.

Johnson County in Iowa is offering a two-year Social Services Block Grant, in collaboration with United Way and local cities, to support established nonprofit organizations that aim to improve the quality of life, address basic human and emergency needs, health, and child and family well-being for Johnson County residents, with applications due by 10/15/2024.

The Linn County Grants, facilitated by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, aim to bolster the quality of life and community development in non-metropolitan areas of Linn County, Iowa. This initiative aligns with the foundation's broader mission to foster thriving communities by investing in programs and projects that address local needs and enhance the well-being of residents outside the immediate urban centers. The grant program seeks to empower smaller communities by providing crucial funding for local initiatives. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, governmental organizations, and non-501(c)(3) organizations utilizing a fiscal sponsor. A key focus is on projects benefiting non-metro Linn County, with a particular emphasis on proposals from organizations based within these communities or those from the Cedar Rapids area that demonstrate strong support and partnerships within the served community. The impact goals are centered around fostering community development and improving the overall quality of life in these non-metropolitan regions. Priority is extended to applications that are well-designed, responsive to existing community conditions, and innovative in their approach. The program also favors initiatives that effectively utilize community resources and are poised to test or demonstrate viable solutions to pressing community issues. Capital projects are also eligible for consideration, indicating a commitment to both program development and infrastructure improvement. The grants support a wide range of activities that can contribute to the vitality of Linn County's smaller towns and rural areas. Expected outcomes include the successful implementation of programs and projects that lead to tangible improvements in community conditions. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the $10,000 funding amount and 12-month project period, the emphasis on well-designed, responsive, and innovative programs suggests that successful applications will clearly articulate their anticipated impact. The foundation's strategic priority is to support initiatives that strengthen the social fabric and economic health of Linn County's diverse communities, operating on a theory of change that targeted investment in local initiatives will lead to sustainable community growth and improved quality of life.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and government entities in Chickasaw County to implement projects that enhance the community's quality of life across various sectors, including arts, education, health, and environment.

The Ackley Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is offering grants to support charitable capital projects, activities, services, programs, and organizations. The core mission of this grant program is to enhance the quality of life for residents of Ackley, Iowa, aligning with the Foundation's broader goal of fostering a community where people desire to live, work, play, and stay. This strategic focus ensures that all funded initiatives contribute directly to the betterment of the local community. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are the people of Ackley, Iowa. The program aims to create a positive and lasting impact across various sectors, including Art and Culture, Community Betterment, Education & Youth Development, Environment and Animal Welfare, Health, and Human Services. The overarching goal is to address community-based needs and improve the overall well-being and vibrancy of Ackley. Funding priorities emphasize requests that demonstrate a clear community need, broad community support, and benefits for the entire community. High priority is also given to organizations that can leverage funding and support from other sources, showcasing matching funds in their budgets. Furthermore, the Foundation values initiatives that maximize community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other local organizations, avoiding service duplication. The capacity of the organization and its staff to achieve desired results, as well as the long-term sustainability of the project without continuous financial reliance on the Ackley Community Foundation, are also critical considerations. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in the quality of life for Ackley residents, such as enhanced cultural opportunities, stronger community bonds, improved educational outcomes for youth, better environmental stewardship, and increased access to health and human services. The Foundation's theory of change posits that by strategically investing in these key areas, it can catalyze positive social and economic development, leading to a more attractive and thriving community for all its inhabitants. The minimum request amount is $500, with most grants ranging from $500 to $3,000, ensuring a broad range of projects can be supported.

The City of Des Moines introduces the Ladder Up Social Equity Grant program, designed to support community organizations that work towards addressing economic disparities among marginalized and underrepresented residents. This initiative is part of the city's commitment to enhancing economic opportunities and fostering equitable outcomes. Funding Source Each year, the program allocates a total of $100,000 from Local Option Sales & Services Tax revenues to fund these critical efforts. The goal is to boost the local economy and strengthen the purchasing power within the community. Eligibility Criteria Organizations eligible to apply must: Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, or have a fiscal partner that is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Be based in Des Moines or demonstrate service to City of Des Moines residents. Have a proven track record of successful economic opportunity programming and a strong commitment to equity and inclusion. Supported Equity Efforts The grant supports a variety of initiatives, including but not limited to: Upskilling Programs: Training and education to enhance job skills. Small Business Support: Start-up assistance and ongoing coaching for underserved residents. Community Outreach: Targeted efforts towards specific marginalized groups. Language Accessibility: Increasing access to services through language support. Proactive Services: Quality services aimed at underserved communities. Economic Connection: Programs that link residents to economic opportunities. Grant Details Award Amounts: Organizations can receive between $10,000 and $25,000. Use of Funds: The grant covers operational costs such as program administration, supplies, and training. Funds must be used to expand or create programs specifically designed to serve historically marginalized communities.

This grant provides financial assistance to small businesses in Dubuque, Iowa, to help cover operating costs and support long-term success for income-qualified owners.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and government entities that aim to improve the quality of life in Howard County, Iowa, through projects in areas such as arts, education, health, and community betterment.

The FY 2025 Latino Community Development Grant (LCDG), solicited by the Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Mayor's Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA), aims to bolster Latino-serving programs within the District of Columbia. This grant seeks to enhance initiatives across various critical areas, including Education (all ages), Workforce and Economic Development, Housing Services, Civic Engagement, Legal Services, Public Safety, Crisis Intervention, Health and Wellness, and Arts, Culture, and Humanities. This aligns with MOLA's mission to support and empower the Latino community in the District. The grant targets the District of Columbia’s Latino community, with an emphasis on improving the quality of life and fostering stronger communities. The expected outcomes include strengthening the middle class, ensuring access to job opportunities, and enabling residents to build better lives for themselves and their loved ones across all eight wards. By investing in these key areas, the program intends to create a more equitable and prosperous environment for Latino residents. Key funding priorities include the "Downtown Comeback," which seeks to reimagine Downtown DC as a vibrant center for living, working, and playing, positioning the District as a global and forward-thinking leader. Another critical priority is "Public Safety," aiming to create significant, lasting change by reducing all forms of violence, including gun violence. "Education" is also a core focus, with the goal of ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential through strong schools, reading, math, recreational activities, and civic and youth engagement. The strategic approach of this grant is rooted in the belief that investing in education, housing, and economic development will lead to improved public safety and overall quality of life for residents. By empowering the District to remain a city for people of all ages and stages of life, and by fighting to protect the middle class, the program aims for comprehensive community upliftment. The grant’s theory of change posits that targeted support for CBOs providing direct services will result in tangible progress towards these community-wide goals.

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations in Marshall County, Iowa, to support initiatives focused on mental health, substance abuse services, or capital projects that improve the community's quality of life.

This program provides financial support to property owners and long-term leaseholders in downtown Decorah for exterior building renovations and the conversion of upper-story spaces into residential units, promoting economic growth and community vibrancy.

The Arts & Culture Capacity Building Grant Program, offered by the City of Dubuque, is designed to support initiatives that foster more sustainable and effective arts and culture organizations within the city. This program aligns with a mission to strengthen the operational capacity of local arts and culture entities, ensuring their long-term viability and ability to contribute to the community. Funding is available for fiscal year 2025, from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, with a total of $35,000 allocated for grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, although eligible organizations can apply for up to $8,000. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are arts and culture organizations that are nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, have at least two years of programming documentation and two Form 990s, and are officially located within the city limits of Dubuque. These organizations must serve residents of Dubuque and conduct programming within the city. The program aims to impact these organizations by enhancing their capacity in various key areas, ultimately leading to improved organizational health and effectiveness. The program prioritizes a range of capacity-building initiatives. These include strategic planning, creating development plans and/or fundraising strategies, improving donor experience, providing nonprofit 101 training for staff and board members, leadership development, project or program development, program management, volunteer management, and Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) training. These focus areas are intended to address common challenges faced by arts and culture organizations and equip them with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. Expected outcomes include organizations with stronger strategic frameworks, enhanced fundraising capabilities, improved donor engagement, more skilled staff and board members, and more effectively managed projects and programs. Measurable results would involve the successful implementation of these capacity-building initiatives, which could be tracked through reports detailing new strategic plans, implemented fundraising strategies, attendance at training sessions, and improved operational metrics. The City of Dubuque's strategic priorities for this grant program appear to be rooted in a theory of change that by investing in the foundational and operational strength of its arts and culture sector, it will foster a more vibrant, resilient, and inclusive cultural landscape for its residents.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations and government entities for projects that improve the quality of life in Franklin County, focusing on areas such as arts, education, health, and community development.

The 5224GOOD Grants, announced by the Community Foundation of Johnson County, represent a key initiative aligned with the foundation's mission to address community needs. This grant program is managed in partnership with the Community Foundation of Johnson County (CFJC) through the 5224GOOD Charitable Fund and the 5224GOOD Endowed Fund. 5224GOOD itself is a learning and giving circle, dedicated to educating its members about philanthropy and community needs within Johnson County. This structure indicates a strategic approach where donor education and community engagement directly inform and support the grant-making process, ensuring that funding is directed towards areas of genuine need identified through member involvement. For 2024, the granting focus area is specifically Housing Insecurity in Johnson County, Iowa. This focus demonstrates a clear priority for the grant cycle, driven by the 5224GOOD membership's engagement with local organizations and their learning about this critical issue. The grants are geared toward program/project support requests, considering both existing and new initiatives, with a strong encouragement for collaborative projects. The target beneficiaries are individuals and families experiencing housing insecurity within Johnson County, with the ultimate impact goal being to alleviate or prevent such insecurity through supported programs and projects. The eligibility criteria further define the target for this grant. Applicants must be 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, churches, the ICCSD, or government entities that significantly serve Johnson County, Iowa, and focus their work on Housing Insecurity. Organizations without 501(c)3 status are encouraged to find a fiscal sponsor to apply, broadening the potential reach of the grants while maintaining accountability. This ensures that the funding reaches legitimate and impactful organizations directly addressing the identified community need. While the description doesn't explicitly detail a "theory of change," the focus on Housing Insecurity, the encouragement of program/project support, and the emphasis on organizations significantly serving Johnson County strongly suggest an implicit theory: that targeted financial support for effective programs will lead to measurable improvements in housing stability for residents. The maximum request amount of $25,000 per application, with an encouragement to request the full amount, suggests an aim to fund impactful, well-defined projects rather than a large number of smaller initiatives. Expected outcomes would include a reduction in housing insecurity, increased access to stable housing solutions, and stronger support systems for vulnerable populations within Johnson County. The grant's direct targeting of a specific issue reflects a strategic priority to concentrate resources for maximum community benefit.

The City of Davenport's Dream Project Grants are designed to support both current and new homeowners within a designated Dream area, facilitating property improvements to foster community development and stability. This initiative aligns with a broader mission of enhancing living conditions and economic vitality within the city by empowering residents to invest in their homes. The grant program is administered by the City of Davenport’s Community and Economic Development (CED) staff, underscoring a public sector commitment to local growth and resident support. The primary beneficiaries of this program are homeowners, both existing and prospective, in the specified Dream area who seek to improve their properties. The impact goal is to create more stable and attractive neighborhoods through direct investment in home rehabilitation. Participants purchasing a home in a Davenport DREAM Project neighborhood are eligible for a grant of approximately $20,000, while other grants can range from $10,000 to $100,000. This financial assistance aims to make homeownership more sustainable and accessible, particularly for those looking to revitalize their living spaces. The program prioritizes exterior improvements first, recognizing their immediate impact on neighborhood aesthetics and property value, with remaining funds available for interior improvements. This structured approach ensures that the most visible and community-benefiting enhancements are addressed initially. Eligibility criteria include proof of current homeowners insurance and no outstanding liens on the property within the City of Davenport, promoting responsible homeownership and safeguarding public investment. Contract owners are ineligible, ensuring the grants benefit direct homeowners. Developers may also qualify if the rehabilitated property remains owner-occupied after sale, extending the program's reach to include broader community revitalization efforts. Expected outcomes include an increase in well-maintained and owner-occupied properties, contributing to a stronger housing market and enhanced neighborhood pride. Measurable results would involve tracking the number of grants awarded, the types of improvements made, and the overall increase in property values or decrease in blight within the Dream area. While the direct strategic priorities and theory of change of a "foundation" are not explicitly detailed as this is a city-run program, the underlying theory is that direct financial assistance for home improvements will lead to improved quality of life, increased property values, and a more vibrant community, thus achieving the city's economic and community development objectives.

This grant provides financial assistance to businesses and building owners in downtown Ames for improving their building façades, with a focus on historically significant features.