Iowa Grants

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (Iowa DNR) is offering its Community Forestry Grant Program, a state-funded initiative designed to support community-based tree planting for derecho recovery. This program is rooted in the Iowa Legislature's appropriation of state infrastructure funds, specifically earmarked for urban and community forestry services. The core mission of this grant program aligns with enhancing Iowa's natural environment and aiding in the recovery of communities affected by derecho events through strategic tree planting on public lands. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are state and local government entities, schools, volunteer organizations, and service organizations actively involved with local urban and community forest services. The overarching impact goal is to facilitate the purchase and planting of trees on publicly owned lands across Iowa, contributing to environmental restoration and community resilience following natural disasters. Eligible planting areas include, but are not limited to, street right-of-ways, parks, school grounds, courthouse lawns, public buildings, fairgrounds, cemeteries, libraries, and trails, ensuring broad community access to the benefits of reforestation. Grant priorities emphasize several key areas to maximize impact and ensure effective resource allocation. Priority will be given to projects demonstrating clear need stemming from derecho impact, cost-effectiveness through a $1 for $1 cash match, robust community involvement, alignment with Tree City/Campus/Line USA designation, and a focus on species/genera diversity and environmental impact. These priorities reflect a strategic approach to fostering sustainable urban and community forests, promoting ecological health, and encouraging local engagement in environmental stewardship. The expected outcomes of the Community Forestry Grant Program include the successful planting of a diverse range of suitable trees across publicly owned lands in Iowa. Measurable results will be tied to the number of trees planted, the extent of community involvement, and the degree to which projects address the specified priorities, particularly in derecho-affected and EAB Reforestation eligible counties. The program's strategic priorities are centered on recovery, environmental enhancement, and community engagement, working towards a theory of change where targeted tree planting leads to stronger, more resilient communities and improved ecological well-being throughout the state. The grants, ranging from $500 to $10,000, are specifically for the purchase and planting of trees, with special requests for other landscape plantings requiring detailed justification.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to small nonprofit organizations in the Omaha metro area that focus on improving economic stability, housing, maternal health, and mental health for local residents.

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.

This program provides funding to Iowa cities for improving traffic operations and safety on primary roads through targeted spot or linear enhancements.

This program provides funding to Iowa counties for traffic safety and operation improvements on primary roads outside of cities, covering a portion of construction costs for both single-location and multi-location projects.

The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) provides grants to states, local governments, and Native American tribes for long-term hazard mitigation projects after a major disaster declaration. The program aims to reduce the loss of life and property in future disasters by funding mitigation measures during the recovery phase of a natural disaster. States receive HMGP funding when a Presidential Disaster Declaration has been made.

The Certified Local Government (CLG) grant program, administered by the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs (National Park Service), aims to support historic preservation projects within Iowa. This program is specifically designed for Iowa cities, counties, and land use districts that have established a CLG Agreement with both the State of Iowa and the National Park Service. The overarching mission of the program aligns with the preservation of historical assets and cultural heritage, a key focus for both the state and national park service initiatives. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are Certified Local Governments in Iowa that are in good standing and up-to-date with their annual reports. These entities are typically responsible for managing and protecting historic properties and districts within their jurisdictions. The impact goal is to facilitate the successful execution of historic preservation projects, ensuring the longevity and integrity of Iowa's historical sites and structures. By providing financial support, the program helps communities maintain their historical identity and contributes to broader cultural heritage preservation efforts. The program's priorities and focuses are centered on supporting historic preservation activities. While specific project types are not detailed, the general scope indicates a commitment to projects that align with the principles of historic preservation as defined by the CLG agreement. This includes, but is not limited to, the restoration, rehabilitation, and maintenance of historic buildings, sites, and landscapes. The emphasis is on enabling local governments to address their unique preservation needs and challenges effectively. Expected outcomes and measurable results include the successful completion of historic preservation projects across Iowa. The program anticipates an increase in the number of preserved historic sites, improved conditions of existing historic properties, and enhanced capacity within CLGs to manage their preservation responsibilities. The timely submission of draft and final applications by the specified deadlines (August 9, 2024, and September 3, 2024, respectively) are also key metrics of engagement and adherence to program guidelines.

The City Parks and Open Space Grant, funded by REAP (Resource Enhancement And Protection), is a competitive grant program supporting cities across Iowa in developing parks and open spaces. This initiative is a core component of the Iowa Legislature's commitment to enhancing the state's natural resources and recreational opportunities, aligning with a broader mission of environmental stewardship and community well-being. The funding originates from gaming revenues, demonstrating a strategic allocation of state resources towards public amenities and green infrastructure. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are the cities within Iowa, which receive the financial support to undertake park and open space development projects. Ultimately, the residents of these cities, as well as visitors, benefit from improved access to recreational areas, enhanced natural environments, and greater opportunities for outdoor activities. The impact goals center on fostering healthier communities, preserving biodiversity through open spaces, and boosting the quality of life for Iowans by creating accessible and engaging public spaces. The grant prioritizes the development of parks and open spaces, explicitly excluding certain types of facilities. Projects that do not qualify for funding include athletic fields, organized sports facilities, swimming pools, and playground equipment. This focus indicates an emphasis on broader, more naturalistic or passive recreational areas rather than specialized sports or play infrastructure. The grant also highlights its commitment to equitable distribution by allocating funds across cities of various sizes, ensuring that both large and small communities have opportunities to benefit. The expected outcomes include the successful development and enhancement of numerous city parks and open spaces across Iowa. Measurable results would involve the number of new or improved park acres, the types of new amenities created (excluding the proscribed items), and potentially an increase in public engagement with these spaces. The program's design, which requires no local matching funds, removes a significant barrier for many communities, increasing accessibility and the likelihood of successful project implementation. The strategic priority is to leverage state gaming revenues to directly improve local community infrastructure related to environmental and recreational assets, embodying a theory of change where targeted state investment leads to widespread local environmental and social benefits. Applications for this program are due by August 15, 2024.

This program provides funding to local governments for implementing cost-effective safety improvements on roads to help reduce serious accidents and fatalities.

The City of North Liberty is offering its 2025 Social Service Grant, a program designed to provide financial assistance to organizations serving North Liberty residents. This grant aligns with a mission to support the local community by fostering both ongoing annual initiatives and innovative new projects. The program emphasizes community benefit and aims to strengthen social services within North Liberty. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are the residents of North Liberty, who will benefit from the services and programs funded through this initiative. The grant aims to support a diverse range of projects, from established annual programs to new, creative solutions addressing community needs. The overarching impact goal is to enhance the quality of life and accessibility of social services for all North Liberty residents. The City Council has specifically highlighted a focus on new services that will benefit North Liberty residents. This indicates a strategic priority towards innovation and the expansion of social service offerings within the city. While annual funding is available, a clear emphasis is placed on supporting novel programs that can introduce new and impactful services to the community. Expected outcomes include the sustained operation of existing vital social services and the successful implementation of new, innovative programs. Measurable results could include the number of residents served by funded programs, the variety of new services introduced, and the overall positive impact on community well-being. The City of North Liberty's strategic priority appears to be a theory of change rooted in direct community investment, believing that by funding diverse social service initiatives, they can foster a more supportive and thriving environment for their residents. The grant period for these funds is from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.

The Iowa Legislature, through its REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection) funds, offers a cost-share grant program primarily focused on land acquisitions. This program dedicates one-tenth of the Open Spaces portion of REAP to partner with private organizations for land acquisition, covering 75% of the costs. The remaining 25% is expected to be funded through private contributions. The core mission of this grant is to facilitate collaboration between private conservation groups and the state to achieve dual objectives: providing outdoor recreation opportunities for the public and protecting critical habitats across all Iowa counties. This aligns with a broader strategic priority of fostering public-private partnerships for environmental stewardship and enhancing public access to natural resources. The primary beneficiaries of this program are private conservation groups seeking to acquire land for conservation and recreation purposes. Ultimately, the impact extends to the general public in Iowa, who gain access to expanded outdoor recreation areas, and to the diverse ecosystems within the state, which benefit from enhanced habitat protection. The program's goals are centered on increasing the amount of protected land and improving access to natural spaces, thereby contributing to the state's environmental health and residents' well-being. The program's priorities and focus are clearly on land acquisition, specifically through a cost-sharing model. It emphasizes the importance of private contributions to complement state funding, encouraging a collaborative approach to conservation. The state's role in managing the acquired properties on behalf of the public after acquisition underscores a commitment to long-term stewardship and public benefit. The grant is not limited to specific counties but is available across all counties in Iowa, indicating a broad and inclusive approach to conservation efforts throughout the state. The expected outcomes of this grant program are a measurable increase in protected land acreage within Iowa and the expansion of outdoor recreational opportunities for its citizens. By covering a significant portion of land acquisition costs, the program aims to incentivize and enable more private conservation groups to undertake such projects. Measurable results would include the number of acres acquired, the types of habitats protected, and the accessibility of new recreational sites. This aligns with a theory of change that posits that by financially supporting private conservation efforts and ensuring state management, significant environmental and recreational benefits can be achieved for the public good.

The City Parks and Open Space Grant, funded by the Iowa Legislature via REAP funds derived from gaming revenues, is a competitive grant program allocating 15% of REAP funds to cities across Iowa. The primary mission of this program is to support the creation and enhancement of city parks and open spaces. This aligns with a broader strategic priority to invest in community green infrastructure and quality of life initiatives within the state. The target beneficiaries of this grant are cities throughout Iowa, with grant distributions based on city size categories. The program's impact goals center on fostering healthier, more vibrant communities by increasing access to and improving the quality of natural recreational areas. It specifically excludes athletic fields, sports facilities, pools, and playgrounds to maintain a focus on passive recreation and natural landscapes. The program's priorities and focus are clearly defined: to support city parks and open spaces. This includes projects that enhance biodiversity, provide environmental benefits, and offer residents opportunities for outdoor enjoyment and relaxation. The competitive nature of the grant ensures that funds are directed towards projects demonstrating the greatest potential for impact and alignment with the program's objectives. Expected outcomes include an increase in the total acreage of protected and improved parkland and open space within Iowa cities. Measurable results could include the number of new or renovated park facilities, increased public engagement with green spaces, and enhancements to local ecosystems. The underlying theory of change is that by investing in natural public spaces, the program will contribute to improved public health, environmental sustainability, and overall community well-being, reflecting a strategic belief in the value of accessible green infrastructure.

This program provides funding to local governments and agencies for safety improvements at public highway-railroad crossings, helping to install and upgrade signal devices and enhance crossing safety features.

The Iowa Community Cultural Grant program helps cities, county governments, tribal councils, and nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations support the development of community programs that provide jobs for local Iowans while promoting Iowa’s cultural, ethnic, and historical heritages through festivals, music, drama, cultural programs, and tourism projects. The program is administered by the Iowa Arts Council within the Iowa Economic Development Authority and is funded through an appropriation by the Iowa Legislature.

This grant program is designed to support conservation efforts within Iowa counties. It targets counties that demonstrate a commitment to conservation by allocating at least 22¢ per $1,000 of taxable property value towards such initiatives. The overall mission alignment of this program is to foster environmental stewardship and resource protection across the state, ensuring that local governments have the necessary funding to implement impactful conservation projects. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are the Iowa counties themselves, specifically their conservation departments or entities responsible for managing natural resources. Indirectly, the residents of these counties and the broader environment benefit from the projects undertaken. The impact goals include enhancing natural habitats, preserving critical ecosystems, and providing educational opportunities related to environmental conservation. The program prioritizes a range of activities, including land acquisition for conservation purposes, capital improvements that benefit natural areas, direct resource protection efforts, and environmental education initiatives aimed at raising public awareness and promoting sustainable practices. Notably, the program explicitly excludes funding for sports complexes, playgrounds, and dog parks, maintaining a clear focus on core conservation activities. It also sets specific requirements for multi-use and biking trails, ensuring they align with broader conservation objectives. Expected outcomes include an increase in protected natural areas, improved ecological health of county lands, and greater public engagement in environmental issues through educational programs. Measurable results could include the acreage of land acquired or improved, the number of individuals participating in environmental education, and the specific conservation gains achieved through resource protection projects. The application process requires detailed project descriptions, maps, budgets, and compliance with ADA and civil rights regulations, ensuring that projects are well-planned and accountable. Submissions for this grant are due by August 15, 2024.

This program provides funding to Iowa's local governments for the construction and improvement of public boat access facilities at lakes and streams.

This program provides financial assistance to cities, counties, railroads, and spur track owners for repairing and maintaining safe highway-railroad grade crossings.

This program provides funding to states for projects that maintain, develop, and improve recreational trails, benefiting local communities and outdoor enthusiasts.

This funding opportunity supports local governments in beautifying roadside areas along primary highways by providing financial assistance for planting seeds or live plants.

The City Parks and Open Space Grant, funded by 15% of REAP funds derived from gaming revenues, is a competitive grant program administered by the Iowa Legislature. This program is designed to support cities across Iowa in developing and maintaining their park and open space areas. The mission of this grant program aligns with fostering community well-being and environmental stewardship by providing accessible green spaces for public use. While not explicitly stating a foundation, the grant operates with a strategic priority of enhancing public spaces within cities through a state-level funding mechanism. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are cities across all counties in Iowa, which then, in turn, benefit their residents by providing enhanced recreational and natural areas. The overarching impact goal is to improve the quality of life for Iowa citizens by increasing the availability and quality of public parks and open spaces. This goal is achieved through the allocation of funds based on city size categories, ensuring equitable distribution and impact across different community scales. The grant prioritizes projects that focus on the development and improvement of city parks and open spaces, with a clear exclusion of facilities for organized sports, athletic fields, pools, and playgrounds. This focus ensures that the funds are directed towards passive recreational areas and natural spaces, promoting a specific type of outdoor engagement. The program's theory of change appears to be that by providing financial incentives for cities to develop and maintain these specific types of public spaces, the overall health, happiness, and connection to nature for residents will improve. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and quality of accessible city parks and open spaces throughout Iowa. While specific measurable results like the number of new parks or acres of open space created are not detailed, the competitive nature and funding distribution by city size suggest an intent for widespread improvement. The grant's no-local-matching-funds requirement also serves to ensure that smaller or less affluent cities are not excluded, thereby maximizing the reach and impact of the program across the state. Applications for this grant are due by August 15, 2024.