Best Grants for Museums in Iowa

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award

The purpose of the Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a new investigator who has conducted nursing research that has the potential to enhance the science and practice of nursing.

Parent Support Grant

The Shared Visions Parent Support Program grants provide funds for educational support services to parents of children ages birth to five and who are determined to meet certain at-risk criteria as defined in 281—Iowa Administrative Code 64. Priority for funding will be given to applicants who serve parents of children ages birth to three years and meeting at-risk criteria. Iowa Code 279.51 governs these grants. 

Overview and General Information

In 1988, the Iowa Legislature established Iowa Code 256A creating the Child Development Coordinating Council (CDCC) and funding the Shared Visions Parent Support Program. The mission of the CDCC is to advocate for Iowa’s children and families and support comprehensive programs for families with children meeting risk factors. The CDCC advises the Iowa Department of Education (Department) regarding the administration and implementation of state funded at-risk programs for families with children ages birth to five. The Department administers the Shared Visions Parent Support Program which provides comprehensive educational support services for families with children meeting identified risk factors who are ages birth to five years. 

The Department is issuing a competitive application to fund Shared Visions Parent Support Programs. The purpose is to solicit applications that will enable the CDCC to select grantees who will provide a Shared Visions Parent Support Program created in accordance with Iowa Code section 279.51 and the rules in 281—Iowa Administrative Code 64. 

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Distinguished Service Award

The Distinguished Service Award recognizes an MNRS member who has demonstrated sustained influential leadership and service to the organization, such as chairing committees, organizing annual conference activities, or serving on the Board of Directors. 

Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board

The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board is a state agency that provides grants to help Oregonians take care of local streams, rivers, wetlands, and natural areas. Community members and landowners use scientific criteria to decide jointly what needs to be done to conserve and improve rivers and natural habitat in the places where they live. OWEB grants are funded from the Oregon Lottery, federal dollars, and salmon license plate revenue. The agency is led by an 18-member citizen board. The board includes representation from the public, tribes, and federal and state natural resource agency boards and commissions.

Tribal Project Development Grants

OWEB’s Tribal Project Development grants were launched in 2024 and are a targeted non-competitive grant offering focused on Oregon’s nine federally recognized Tribes and the Nez Perce Tribe. These grants are funded with a combination of federal Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Funds (PCSRF) and Oregon Lottery funds. Applications are accepted throughout the year and are reviewed and awarded through a streamlined process.

Match Requirement: 5%

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. 

CDBG Water/Sewer/Storm Water

Approximately $13 million in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available on an annual basis to cities and counties through the state of Iowa’s Water & Sewer Fund.

This competitive program offers grants to assist communities for a variety of projects including drinking water sources, water distribution, waste water collection and treatment and related public critical infrastructure projects.

CFR 200 Audit Requirements

CDBG contracts may be subject to audit. Federal Code (2 CFR 200) requires that recipients that expend $750,000 or more in federal funds within a fiscal year must have a single or program specific audit. When budgeting for CDBG funds, applicants should be aware of these audit requirements:

• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from more than one source of federal funding, an organization-wide audit must be conducted in accordance with federal requirements outlined in 2 CFR 200.514
• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from a single source, a project audit, targeting only transactions dealing specifically with the project, may be performed in lieu of an organization-wide audit.

Communities should consult with their accountants regarding the applicability of an audit and audit requirements.

Audit costs are a CDBG-eligible expense. Organization-wide audits can be paid with CDBG funds proportional to the amount of all other funds included in the audit. The total cost of a project audit can be paid with CDBG funds.

Davis Bacon and Related Acts

Projects that include construction may be subject to the requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act and related laws and regulations. The Davis-Bacon Act applies to all contracts for construction, alteration and/or repairs in excess of $2,000 that involve CDBG funds. Cost estimates for the proposed project should reflect compliance with these requirements.

Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act

For projects that include acquisition and relocation, all recipients given the authority to acquire property are required to follow the guidelines in HUD Handbook 1378 – Tenant Assistance, Relocation and Real Property Acquisition. Cost estimates for the proposed project should reflect compliance with these requirements.

Historic Preservation Review Requirements

Federally funded activities are subject to the review requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The goal of the review process is to identify historic properties, both above and below the ground potentially affected by the undertaking, assess the effects of the undertaking and seek ways to avoid, minimize or mitigate any adverse effects on historic properties.

The review process involves review by IEDA and possible consultation with various agencies, groups and individuals, including the State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO), located in the Department of Cultural Affairs. Although consultation is not required prior to a CDBG award, if the project includes a property that may have historical significance, it is a good idea to contact IEDA early in the project development.

Environmental Review and project initiation

No HUD Funds or non-HUD funds may be committed to the project until the applicant has secured environmental approval from the State, as provided in HUD regulation 24 CFR Part 58. In addition, pending environmental approval and pursuant to 24 CFR Part 58.22(a), no grant recipient or participant in the development process, including contractors or sub-contractors, may undertake an activity that may limit the choice of reasonable alternatives. Such choice limiting actions include real property acquisition, conducting a competitive sealed bid process for the project, leasing, rehabilitation, repair, demolition, conversion, and new construction.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) administers the ATV Trail Grant Program to enhance recreational opportunities in Iowa. Funded by vehicle registration fees, this program supports the acquisition, development, and maintenance of trails for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off-road utility vehicles (ORVs). By improving riding areas and designated parks, the DNR promotes stewardship of Iowa's natural resources and ensures enjoyable outdoor experiences for residents and visitors alike.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers the Snowmobile Trail Grant Program, providing financial support for the development and maintenance of snowmobile trails using registration fees. Managed by the Iowa State Snowmobile Association, the program ensures public access to trails and supports equipment purchases for trail grooming, fostering outdoor recreation and conservation efforts in Iowa.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers the Conservation Education Program (CEP) to enhance environmental awareness and stewardship among Iowa citizens. With $350,000 available, eligible applicants include educational institutions and organizations. The program aims to support effective curricula and educator stipends, promoting sustainable practices. Grant recipients must maintain detailed records and submit progress reports. Preference will be given to projects that emphasize conservation stewardship and incorporate educational materials across multiple disciplines.

The Rupert Dunklau Foundation Grant supports organizations with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on Lutheran Higher Education, Health and Human Care, and Faith Strengthening. Since its establishment in 1968, the foundation has aimed to provide financial resources to ministries within the Lutheran tradition, particularly in Nebraska and surrounding states. Eligible projects must align with the foundation's mission to promote the welfare of mankind through educational and health initiatives.

About QuikTripQuikTrip believes in investing in the communities in which our employees live and work. Every year, QuikTrip donates 5% of our annual net profit to qualified 501c3 non-profit agencies, which includes our United Way campaign match, support for National Safe Place agencies, Folds of Honor scholarships and many other agencies that support at-risk youth and early childhood education.Mission: To wisely invest dollars in community efforts that will help impact (in measurable terms) individuals in our society who are dependent on the charitable support of others. We believe the most effective way to do that is to invest our contribution dollars and volunteers in strategic efforts that help those at risk reach their functional capacity as successful, independent citizens.About QuikTrip Charitable GrantsQuikTrip funds 501c3 agencies located in the cities in which we have stores and our employees live and work. Funding can include: “in-kind” products (coupons, gift cards or product donation), formal grants, fundraiser/event sponsorships and employee volunteer time.Focus Areas:

• Creating Safe Communities
  • First Responders: QuikTrip is proud to partner with law enforcement and first responders in every market we serve, making sure that they have the tools, training and support they need to keep our communities safe and to return home safely to their families after each shift.
  • Homeless Outreach & Alternatives to Police Response: To significantly reduce non-emergency calls and help people in crisis get back on their feet, QuikTrip funds dedicated homeless outreach teams across our communities. These teams engage individuals experiencing homelessness and living in encampments – connecting people to services, shelter, detox and long-term care.

• Creating Strong Communities
  • Ending Homelessness: We support emergency, transitional and permanent supportive housing, diversion and prevention programs, and more.
  • Mental Health & Substance Abuse : We know that healthy communities are safe communities, which is why we invest in detox and substance abuse treatment centers, and behavioral health centers and services to end the perpetuation of cycles of trauma and addiction.
  • At-Risk Youth: We especially prioritize services for at-risk youth – those aging out of foster care, justice-involved or without stable support systems.
• Additional Community Commitments
  • United Way: Employee donation matching in all markets.
  • Folds of Honor: Scholarships for families of fallen or wounded service members and first responders.
  • National Safe Place: QT stores serve as Safe Place locations for youth in crisis, with trained staff ready to assist.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

MNRS Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an MNRS member who has significantly advanced the profession of nursing either through an extensive program of research or creation of environments where research can flourish, and whose sustained leadership and distinguished career yielded outstanding and noteworthy accomplishments. 

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research.

The Excellence in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Award

The purpose of the Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Award is to recognize the contribution of a member who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and made significant contributions to advance equitable health outcomes and reduce health disparities through research, which has enhanced the science and practice of nursing in the MNRS region.  

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Iowa

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Dr. Ralph and Marian Falk Medical Research Trust – Falk Catalyst Awards support high-risk, high-reward biomedical research with up to $350,000 in funding over one to two years. These awards aim to address critical scientific challenges and enable the translation of innovative research into clinical practices. Projects focus on identifying biological markers, therapeutic targets, and developing interventions to disrupt disease processes, ultimately improving treatment outcomes for patients.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.

The Historical Resource Development Program Annual Grant supports the preservation, conservation, and education of Iowa's historical resources. Established by the Code of Iowa, it offers funding to nonprofit corporations, governmental units, and individuals, with a focus on projects that enhance economic and cultural development. While grants can reach $100,000, applicants are encouraged to request up to $50,000. Key priorities include projects involving trained professionals and documentary collections with significant historical value.

University of Iowa

The University of Iowa is one of America's premier public research universities.

Founded in 1847, it is the state's oldest institution of higher education and is located alongside the picturesque Iowa River in Iowa City.

A member of the Association of American Universities since 1909 and the Big Ten Conference since 1899, the University of Iowa is home to one of the most acclaimed academic medical centers in the country, as well as globally recognized leadership in the study and craft of writing. Iowa is known for excellence in both the arts and sciences, offering world-class undergraduate, graduate, and professional academic programs in a wide variety of fields.

Research Support Award

The Office of Undergraduate Research and the Office of the Vice President for Research provide limited funding to facilitate undergraduate research and creative scholarship. These funds are open for use for purchasing research supply materials as well as traveling to conduct research if the facilities or materials are not available at the University of Iowa. For example, if a student needed to travel to the Field Museum in Chicago to study relevant collections at that facility, these funds would be applicable. 

Awards are limited to one application per faculty mentor per academic year.

Value

OUR offers limited funding of up to $1,000 that is available for research and creative work expenses, including equipment or supplies; software; travel to access facilities, collections, or materials not available on campus; research-related interviews; on-location filming, etc. 

Projects with budgets greater than $1,000 must provide clear evidence that additional funds are available to cover the amount of money required beyond this award. Funding will be transferred into the faculty mentor's preferred 050 MFK. Award recipients have until June 10th of the fiscal year to expend the awarded funds. Those looking for summer funding should apply during the spring application cycle.

All unused funds must be returned to the OUR prior to the deadline given in post-award notifications.

The Windgate Charitable Trust Grant supports contemporary craft and visual arts in the U.S. It offers funding for fellowships, residencies, educational outreach, and materials for craft programs. The foundation prioritizes strengthening visual arts in colleges and expanding K-12 art-integrated programs, providing opportunities for artists and educators to enhance their skills and foster creativity among students. Organizations with previous funding from Windgate can apply through the grantee portal.

The PMRTC Community Betterment Grant Program by Prairie Meadows supports small to medium projects aimed at enhancing community well-being. Grants range from $100 to $99,999 and target various sectors including arts, education, health, and economic development. This initiative aims to uplift Iowans by funding essential services, creating educational opportunities, and improving access to arts for underserved populations. The program reflects Prairie Meadows' commitment to fostering positive change in Central Iowa communities.

The Prairie Meadows Legacy Grant Program offers substantial funding ranging from $100,000 to $1 million for impactful projects in central Iowa. This initiative supports various categories including arts, economic development, education, and health services. By funding iconic projects like the Principal Riverwalk and Pappajohn Sculpture Garden, the program plays a vital role in revitalizing the Greater Des Moines area, enhancing community resources and fostering cultural growth.

Iowa Early Head Start State Grant 

Purpose

Renewal of existing Iowa Early Head Start (EHS) State funding opportunity.

Grant Purpose:

The purpose of the Iowa EHS State Grant is to increase the capacity of providers of Infant/Toddler services to successfully maintain adherence to requirements of the Head Start Program Performance Standards (HSPPS) through collaborative partnerships within Early Head Start programs. The focus of this grant serves to increase collaboration through birth-five partnerships as an infrastructure underpinning to leverage federal funding opportunities specific to EHS grants.

Impact: 

• Increase and influence success of partnership and collaboration between Child Care and Head Start; 
• Expand the number of children, families, staff, administration and systems Iowa EHS State allocation funds influence; 
• Increase efforts in focus areas of coaching and mentoring to increase staff education, instructional practices, family support, business practices and infrastructure through systems work and collaboration with EHS. 

The Alan Peterson Agricultural Scholarship, offered by CommunityGiving, aims to support Minnesota residents pursuing agricultural studies at accredited universities. This scholarship respects natural resources, promotes innovation in agriculture, and encourages research while advocating for the agricultural sector at all levels. Eligible applicants must be entering their junior or senior year in a four-year college, with no GPA requirement. The program seeks to empower future leaders in agriculture and foster community engagement.

Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is a unique philanthropic organization. In July 2007, United Way of Greater Fort Dodge and the Community Foundation of Fort Dodge and North Central Iowa merged into one philanthropic organization. Both organizations shared a common mission – to advance the common good and improve the quality of life of people in our community and region through charitable giving. Merging the two organizations provided the opportunity to leverage resources and reduce duplication in philanthropy. This collaborative model is the first of its kind in the nation and offers our community and region a “one-stop-shop,” for community-based charitable giving. The new organization, the Fort Dodge Community Foundation and United Way is certified by the National Council on Foundations and United Way Worldwide.

Merrill Family Foundation 5M Scholarships

George and Doris Merrill Family Foundation 5M Scholarship aka Merrill Family Foundation 5M Scholarship is administered by the Fort Dodge Community Foundation.

Scholarships are given directly to community college, college, university, or trade school and may be renewable (Undergraduate studies only).

Award announcements available yearly the first of August.