Iowa Grants

The Forecast Public Art’s Midwest Memory Grant, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, is open to non-profit organizations in rural Midwest communities, aiming to elevate and preserve the stories of BIPOC communities through monuments, with a focus on addressing systemic inequities and advancing racial justice.

The PRISM (Promoting Rural Interconnections for Sexual Minorities) grant program, offered by the PFund Foundation, is designed to bolster the capacity and connectivity of rural LGBTQ+ organizations across a five-state service area: Iowa, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, including Native Nations within these states. This initiative directly aligns with PFund's mission to support LGBTQ+ communities, particularly in underserved rural areas. By focusing on rural interconnections, PFund aims to address the unique challenges faced by queer individuals in small towns and rural parts of the upper Midwest, fostering a more connected and resilient LGBTQ+ ecosystem in these regions. The primary beneficiaries of the PRISM program are LGBTQIA2S+ populations in rural communities within the specified states. The program targets organizations that primarily serve these populations, have been in operation for at least one year, are based in or serve rural areas (towns under 50,000 people), and are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits or informal groups with a fiscal sponsor. The impact goals are to increase the capacity of these organizations, enhance their connections through networking, and empower them to effectively respond to the specific issues affecting queer people in their communities. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around creating networks for LGBTQ+ organizations and groups to facilitate resource sharing, collaborative learning, and collective action. This cohort collaboration is a central tenet, designed to build a strong, supportive community among rural LGBTQ+ leaders and organizations. The funding, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 for a 12-month period, supports these organizations in strengthening their infrastructure and programs to better serve their constituents. Expected outcomes include more robust and sustainable rural LGBTQ+ organizations, increased inter-organizational collaboration, and a more unified response to the challenges faced by queer individuals in the upper Midwest's rural areas. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the program's emphasis on capacity building, connection, and cohort collaboration suggests that metrics would likely include the number of organizations participating, the types of resources shared, the attendance and engagement in monthly virtual meetings, and qualitative assessments of increased organizational effectiveness and community impact. PFund Foundation's strategic priority with the PRISM program is clearly to support and uplift rural LGBTQ+ communities, recognizing their distinct needs and often overlooked struggles. The theory of change underpinning PRISM is that by providing targeted financial support, training, and fostering a collaborative network, rural LGBTQ+ organizations will become more resilient and effective. This, in turn, will lead to improved services, stronger advocacy, and a better quality of life for LGBTQ+ individuals living in these areas, ultimately contributing to a more equitable and inclusive Upper Midwest.

This grant provides financial support for economic, civic, or community development projects in Clinton County, allowing organizations to request up to $75,000 with a required 25% match.

The Humanities Project Grants, administered by the State Historical Society of Iowa and funded by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH), aim to support public humanities projects that encourage contemplation, spark conversation, and engage the community. This aligns with a broader mission to explore the human experience through educational programming. The program's strategic priority is to use humanities as a central resource to involve and benefit diverse groups of Iowans, fostering public value through deliberate public engagement and access to project activities. The target beneficiaries for this grant program include federally tax-exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations incorporated and physically located in Iowa, or in border state communities demonstrating significant impact on Iowa's cultural vitality. Units of local, county, or federally-recognized tribal governments physically located in Iowa are also eligible, as are units within Iowa-based institutions of higher education with a core humanities mission. Individual filmmakers or humanities experts who are current, legal Iowa residents are also eligible, provided their projects are initiated and managed by the individual and do not primarily benefit an organization. The impact goal is to involve and benefit diverse groups of Iowans through educational programming exploring the human experience. The program prioritizes projects where humanities are central and demonstrate public value to Iowans. Eligible projects span various formats, including community discussions, lecture series, workshops, films, interpretive exhibits, and podcasts. While creative or performing arts projects may be eligible, they must serve as a catalyst for a humanities-centric project and include interpretation and/or discussion of the art. Subject areas considered include archaeology, comparative religion, cultural anthropology, ethics, folklore, gender studies, history, jurisprudence, languages, law, linguistics, literature, philosophy, and the interpretation of the arts, as well as aspects of social sciences that explore humanity and meaning within communities. Expected outcomes include increased public engagement with humanities topics and enhanced cultural vitality across Iowa. Projects are expected to benefit diverse groups of Iowans through educational programming. Measurable results would likely stem from the types of eligible projects, such as attendance at community discussions, lecture series, or workshops, or the reach of films, exhibits, or podcasts. The funding period for all project activities and expenses is November 1, 2024, to October 31, 2025, with grants ranging from $2,500 to $30,000 to cover eligible one-time project expenses. The program's theory of change posits that by funding accessible and engaging public humanities projects, it will foster deeper contemplation, conversation, and community engagement, ultimately enriching the human experience for Iowans.

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.

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 Iowa Department of Natural Resources is offering a 50/50% federal matching Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant of $1000 to $10,000 for Iowa Fire Departments serving small communities, prioritizing those who have not received funds previously, have submitted Iowa Wildland Fire Reports, and demonstrate a strong need for wildland fire suppression resources.

The Endowment Challenge Grants, offered by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation (GRCF), are designed to bolster the long-term sustainability of nonprofit organizations by facilitating the establishment and growth of endowment funds. This initiative directly aligns with the foundation's mission to invest in the future of the community by providing stable operating support for crucial nonprofit services. The program specifically offers matching grants, encouraging organizations to secure additional funding and build a lasting financial foundation. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are established nonprofit organizations that are at least seven years old and hold 501(c)(3) status. A key focus is on organizations based in or serving residents of Linn County, Iowa, or those with existing nonprofit endowed funds at the GRCF. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen the financial resilience of these nonprofits, enabling them to navigate cyclical income variances and allocate resources to high-priority areas, ultimately ensuring consistent delivery of their missions. The grant prioritizes the creation and expansion of endowment funds that will provide general operating support. The expected outcomes include increased financial stability for recipient organizations, enhanced capacity to fulfill their missions, and a more secure future for the vital services they provide. Measurable results include the successful establishment of matching endowment funds held at the GRCF, with a funding commitment of $25,000 and a five-year period to meet the match. While a formal "theory of change" is not explicitly stated, the program implicitly operates on the theory that by providing matching funds for endowments, nonprofits will gain the financial stability needed to strategically plan for the future, maintain essential operations, and continue to serve the residents of Linn County effectively. The GRCF's strategic priority is evident in its commitment to fostering long-term sustainability within the nonprofit sector, particularly within its local geographic focus.

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 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.

This grant provides funding to states and territories to develop a coordinated early childhood education system that integrates various programs, including Head Start, to improve access and efficiency for families with children from birth to age five.

This program provides financial assistance to developers for constructing new housing in Iowa cities affected by recent disasters, focusing on permanent residences for sale or rent.

The Pella Community Foundation Impact Grants, ranging from $15,000 to $25,000, are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental agencies for projects that significantly improve Pella's quality of life, demonstrate community impact, and show evidence of long-term planning and sustainability.

The Walter F. Goodnough Trust offers grants specifically designed to support the rehabilitation of underprivileged disabled children. The foundation's mission is directly aligned with improving the health and well-being of this vulnerable population through hospitalization within the state of Florida. This grant program is a core component of the trust's philanthropic efforts, focusing on a critical area of need within the healthcare sector for children facing both disability and financial hardship. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are underprivileged disabled children in Florida who require hospitalization for rehabilitation. The program's impact goal is to facilitate their recovery and improve their quality of life by providing financial support for necessary medical interventions. The trust prioritizes health-related programs and aims to ensure that eligible organizations, specifically 501(c)(3) exempt organizations, can access funding to serve these children. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on direct impact within Florida's healthcare landscape, particularly for disabled children, and their geographic limitation to Florida underscores this focused approach. While specific detailed expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly stated beyond "rehabilitation," the implicit outcome is improved health and functional abilities for the children served. Success would likely be measured by the number of children assisted, the types of rehabilitation services provided, and potentially the duration or effectiveness of their hospitalization and recovery. The average grant size of $2,500 to $5,000, with an average total giving of $15,000 per year, indicates a focus on supporting individual or smaller-scale rehabilitation projects. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by providing financial grants to qualified organizations, they can directly enable access to crucial rehabilitation services that might otherwise be out of reach for underprivileged families. This strategy emphasizes providing direct financial support for hospitalization and rehabilitation services to address specific community needs within their focused program area of Health.

The Rural Housing Assessment Grant program, administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA)'s Center for Rural Revitalization, aims to empower rural communities in Iowa. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to revitalize rural areas by enabling communities to interpret publicly available data and implement changes in development codes, local ordinances, and housing incentives. The program's foundation is deeply rooted in the belief that data-driven decisions at the local level are crucial for fostering a development environment attractive to potential housing developers, ultimately contributing to the economic and social well-being of rural Iowa. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are local city and county governments, as well as federally recognized tribal governments located in Iowa. Specifically, projects and programs must exist in and benefit communities with a population of 20,000 or fewer, and not be contiguous to a city with a population of 40,000 or greater. For countywide projects, eligibility is restricted to the 88 least populous counties. The impact goals are centered on facilitating the assessment of current development environments, enacting policy changes, and ultimately increasing the availability of suitable housing in these underserved rural areas. The program prioritizes several key areas. First, it focuses on supporting the use of publicly available, online information, encouraging communities to leverage existing data for informed decision-making. Second, a significant focus is placed on partnering with Iowa State University (ISU) Extension and Outreach for their Rural Housing Readiness Assessment workshops. These workshops are integral to helping communities assess their current housing landscape and identify areas for improvement. The grant funds are specifically designed to support housing assessment data collection, participation in these workshops, and the subsequent implementation of workshop outcomes within the contract period. Expected outcomes include the completion of housing assessment reports, successful participation in the ISU Extension and Outreach Rural Housing Assessment Readiness Workshop, and the implementation of policy and procedural changes that attract developers. Measurable results will be tied to the completion of these deliverables and the demonstrable progress made in adjusting local regulations to be more conducive to housing development. Grant recipients can be awarded up to $20,000, with a funding period for all project activities and incurred expenses spanning from October 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026. The program also requires a $5,000 cash match for each city or full county partnering on an application, ensuring local commitment and investment.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (Iowa DNR) Trees for Kids Grant Program is designed to educate children, teenagers, and young adults about the importance of trees and their many benefits. It also aims to provide hands-on experience in tree planting and maintenance. This program aligns with a mission to increase and diversify tree canopy in public areas within Iowa communities, supporting environmental stewardship and community engagement. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are youth in Iowa, specifically children, teenagers, and young adults, who will gain direct experience with tree planting and care. Indirectly, the entire community benefits from increased tree canopy in public spaces such as parks, community centers, and public schools. The program's impact goals include fostering environmental education, promoting community involvement in green initiatives, and enhancing the ecological health and aesthetic appeal of public lands across Iowa. The program prioritizes projects that involve significant youth participation in planting, mulching, and initial watering. A key focus is on ensuring proper techniques are learned through required DNR-led demonstrations. Funding is specifically allocated for the purchase of trees and mulch, reinforcing the program's core objective of tangible tree planting. Projects must occur on public or private school grounds, or on public lands like parks and right-of-ways, ensuring the benefits are widely accessible. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tree canopy in participating communities, as well as an enhanced understanding among youth about tree care and environmental benefits. Each project aims to result in successfully planted and mulched trees, with initial watering ensuring their establishment. The program's theory of change posits that by engaging youth directly in these activities and providing necessary resources, a greater appreciation for nature will be cultivated, leading to more resilient and diverse urban forests across the state. This initiative contributes to the DNR's broader strategic priority of conserving and enhancing Iowa's natural resources for current and future generations.

This program provides funding to local governments and transportation agencies for improving roads, bridges, and transit infrastructure, including projects for pedestrians and cyclists.