Best Disaster Preparedness and Relief Grants in Iowa

Local governments, state agencies, public schools, universities, and eligible private nonprofits in Iowa can seek funding to match FEMA disaster recovery projects and support buyout-related infrastructure and resilience work. Grants from Iowa Economic Development Authority help Iowa disaster preparedness and relief efforts in HUD- and state-identified MID counties, with priority for low- and moderate-income communities.

Nonprofit organizations serving rural communities in Iowa with agriculture education, hunger and nutrition, or rural disaster relief and essential services projects can apply for funding from Farm Credit Services of America. Grants up to US $25,000 support efforts like first responder equipment, disaster relief, food security, and agricultural education facilities in the Farm Credit Services of America service area.

Iowa 501(c)(3) nonprofits and eligible government entities can seek support for disaster preparedness, first responder readiness, and humanitarian relief projects, as well as broader community resilience efforts. Marathon Petroleum provides funding within its marketing area, with preference for communities near its operations, and also supports sustainability, workforce development, and thriving community initiatives.

Legal services organizations in Iowa providing disaster-related civil legal aid can apply for Equal Justice Works’ Disaster Resilience Program host organization funding. Focused on disaster relief and humanitarian aid, it supports Attorney and Student Fellows to deliver free legal assistance in disaster-impacted Midwest communities, with awards up to US $146,800 per host organization.

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Mission

Strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses. IEDA works to achieve its mission and goals to benefit Iowans while maintaining a high level of transparency. 

Opportunities and Threats Fund

A portion of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are reserved for communities facing an imminent threat to the public requiring immediate assistance. These funds may also be used by communities seeing an opportunity to demonstrate sustainable community activities.

The program is funded through the federal CDBG program. The goal of this program is to provide economic opportunities for people, especially those of low- and moderate income.

Health and Safety Threat Projects

• An immediate threat must exist to health, safety or community welfare that requires immediate action
• The threat must result from unforeseeable and unavoidable circumstances or events
• Must meet one of the three national objectives of the CDBG program
• No known alternative project or action would be more feasible than the proposed project
• Sufficient other local, state or federal funds (including the competitive CDBG program) either are not available or cannot be obtained within the time frame necessary to address the problem

Iowa 501(c)(3) nonprofits and independent volunteer emergency response organizations can access funding for disaster preparedness, community safety, and resilience projects through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants, with awards of US $5,000 - US $30,000. Eligible programs must primarily serve Iowa communities on the Union Pacific service list and align with the foundation’s safety or related priority areas.

Iowa K-12 public schools with existing libraries that suffered significant library damage from recent disasters can access funding through Dollar General Literacy Foundation to rebuild books, media, and equipment. Eligible schools must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store or distribution center and apply within 36 months of the disaster.

Nonprofit organizations improving health equity, cancer care, crisis response, or healthcare workforce diversity across the U.S. or Canada, including Iowa, can apply for McKesson Foundation grants over More than US $25,000. Grants may support disaster preparedness and relief, food and medicine access, and related programs serving vulnerable and underserved communities.

Nonprofit and local government organizations providing essential services through disaster preparedness and relief can apply for US $300,000 in backup power project funding from Hillman Family Foundations. Focused on disaster readiness, the Powered & Prepared Initiative supports 501(c)(3) entities and municipal agencies that maintain critical operations during emergencies, which may benefit Iowa-based resilience efforts.

Iowa nonprofits and research institutions working on disaster preparedness, relief, or related resilience issues can access funding through the Japan Foundation’s Japan–U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations collaborate with Japanese partners on policy-oriented research, dialogue, and exchange projects addressing global challenges like climate change, disaster prevention, public health, and sustainable, resilient communities.

Iowa public entities and regional partners working on disaster recovery, preparedness, and economic development can access funding through the Economic Development Administration under this national FY25 Disaster Supplemental program. Grants up to US $50,000,000 support readiness planning, implementation projects, and large-scale industry transformation efforts in communities economically impacted by 2023–2024 natural disasters.

Nonprofit organizations working on disaster preparedness and relief in Iowa can access funding through the McKesson Foundation, with awards up to US $25,000 for programs in the U.S. and Canada. Eligible projects may include emergency preparedness, disaster relief and recovery, and medicine and food support for vulnerable communities, especially those facing health and food insecurity.

Eligible U.S. educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Iowa can apply for State Farm Companies Foundation’s Good Neighbor Citizenship company grants to support safety, community development, and education initiatives. Programs focused on disaster preparedness, mitigation, or recovery, as well as broader community resilience efforts, may be competitive.

With a mission to strengthen communities, International Paper Company Foundation provides Iowa nonprofits and eligible public entities with US $2,500 - US $10,000 for disaster preparedness, disaster relief, hunger, health, education, and critical community needs. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) or similar, in good standing, and located where International Paper operates or serves nearby communities.

Eligible community organizations in Iowa communities served by Alliant Energy can apply for Alliant Energy Foundation’s Community Grants to support disaster preparedness, disaster relief, and related community safety efforts. Year-round applications are reviewed three times annually and may also fund housing, basic needs, workforce readiness, environmental stewardship, and public spaces projects.

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

BioMarin offers funding through its donation program focused on improving healthcare and patient advocacy, particularly for rare diseases. Organizations eligible for support include hospitals, accredited providers, and patient advocacy groups. BioMarin prioritizes innovative therapeutic solutions for rare genetic conditions. The company is dedicated to enhancing patient care and education, and it reviews funding requests year-round, although specific deadlines apply for year-end funding. This initiative reflects BioMarin's commitment to addressing unmet medical needs.

The Bertin Family Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) public charities that align with the foundation's mission of community strengthening and compassion. Grant requests are accepted annually from July 1 to August 31, focusing on program or project support rather than general endowment. The foundation values measurable outcomes and responsible stewardship, and gives preference to organizations with Gold or Platinum status on Candid.

Performing arts and entertainment professionals facing unexpected critical need can receive emergency financial assistance for basic living expenses such as housing, utilities, transportation, and health care. Focused on disaster relief and humanitarian aid, the Entertainment Community Fund invites eligible IATSE Local 700 members, including retirees, in Iowa and nationwide to apply for this hardship relief support.

The Crawford Taylor Foundation focuses on enhancing programs that create lasting legacies in St. Louis. With priorities in community development, women's health, animal welfare, and environmental preservation, the foundation seeks to support 501(c)(3) organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria. They avoid funding multi-year grants or for-profit initiatives, emphasizing support for local causes and relief efforts deemed important by the Taylor family.

The Disaster Resilience Program Fellowship supports low-income communities affected by disasters by mobilizing lawyers and law students to provide free civil legal aid. This initiative ensures access to essential legal services, helping families navigate recovery barriers. Attorney Fellows receive a salary while Student Fellows earn a stipend for their service. Participants engage in outreach, build community relationships, and receive comprehensive training to enhance their legal skills, contributing to the resilience of affected communities.

The CareQuest Emergent & Relief Fund aims to address the unique challenges faced by historically underserved communities in the healthcare system, particularly in oral health. This fund supports innovative approaches, urgent clinical responses, and immediate relief efforts for community crises. Grants are targeted at organizations demonstrating commitment to equity in health services, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need. With a focus on transformative change, this initiative seeks to enhance access and improve health outcomes across diverse populations.

The NAILBA Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support small, well-managed U.S. charities that assist those in need, particularly children. Grants are available to organizations with backing from a NAILBA member and that meet specific criteria, such as nonsectarian operation and appropriate fiscal accountability. Since its inception in 2002, the foundation has invested in community transformation by funding initiatives that directly engage in beneficial services, thereby enhancing the welfare of underprivileged groups.

The Disaster Grants Program by LSC provides vital funding to organizations aiding survivors of government-declared emergencies. It empowers legal aid groups to deliver essential services to low-income disaster survivors, ensuring access to legal assistance during crises. The program also educates communities on disaster legal services and prepares them for future emergencies, enhancing resilience and response capabilities. By supporting various grant types, the initiative addresses immediate needs and fosters long-term recovery strategies.

The Disaster Relief and Resilience Scholarship supports residents of western North Carolina whose education funding has been affected by Hurricane Helene. Offered by the North Carolina Community Foundation, this scholarship is available for undergraduate and graduate students attending two- or four-year colleges. The minimum award is $1,000, aimed at helping students overcome financial hardships caused by the disaster and continue their educational pursuits.

The CAPTRUST Community Foundation provides Crisis Grants to support nonprofit organizations aiding families impacted by natural disasters or emergencies. By dedicating over 10% of its annual budget for crisis assistance, the foundation ensures that funds directly benefit those in need. Grants can be requested up to $5,000 to help rebuild lives during challenging times, reflecting the foundation's commitment to integrity and support for children and families in crisis.

The Updated National Dislocated Worker Grant Program Guidance informs workforce development systems about the policies and priorities for using National Dislocated Worker Grant funds. This guidance outlines grant types, funding approaches, performance periods, cost limitations, and application requirements. It emphasizes the critical role of DWGs in supporting economic recovery, community resilience, and equitable workforce development, ensuring that these funds effectively contribute to creating good jobs and enhancing local economies.