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Best Des Moines County Grants for Nonprofits in Iowa

Looking for grants for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations working in Des Moines County? Find the perfect grant for your nonprofit on Instrumentl.

9,000+

Available grants

$2.57B

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

9,000+ grants
$2.57B total
$5K median

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9,253 Results based on applied filters

Des Moines County Community Funding via Keokuk Area Community Foundation

Keokuk Area Community Foundation
Private
Des Moines County, Iowa
US $15,000 - US $75,000
Des Moines County, Iowa 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government agencies can seek funding for arts and culture, community betterment, education, health care, and human services projects. Focused on local charitable initiatives, Keokuk Area Community Foundation awards US $500 - US $5,000 through the Community Foundation of Des Moines County, with occasional larger grants for exceptional needs.
Art & Culture Education Community Services +2 more

Animal Welfare Grants for Nonprofits from Nestlé Purina

Nestlé Purina
Corporate
Adams County, Colorado, Adams County, Pennsylvania +361 more
Unspecified amount
Grants from Nestlé Purina help Des Moines County, Iowa pet welfare nonprofits fund capacity building, capital improvements, and program or spay/neuter work. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) pet welfare organizations in the U.S., with priority for those within 50 miles of Purina’s St. Louis headquarters or its manufacturing locations, including Des Moines County.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Ferguson Support for Community Development Nonprofits

Ferguson
Corporate
Abbeville County, South Carolina, Accomack County, Virginia +722 more
Unspecified amount
Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on affordable housing, skilled trades, clean water, sanitation, or community revitalization in Des Moines County, Iowa may be eligible for this funding. Grants from Ferguson help U.S.-based nonprofits within its geographic footprint build partnerships that strengthen neighborhoods and improve economic wellbeing through targeted community programs.
Equitable & Affordable Housing Community Development & Revitalization Sanitation & Clean Drinking Water +2 more

STEM Education Funding from John Deere Foundation

John Deere Foundation
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +19 more
Unspecified amount in in-kind support
FIRST LEGO League Discover teams linked to schools or 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Des Moines County, Iowa can apply for John Deere Foundation support to cover program registration and participation costs. Teams must be near a John Deere Inspire community or have an active John Deere mentor and primarily serve underserved, underrepresented, or rural students.
STEM / STEAM Education Educational Access & Equity

STEAM Workshop Funding for Nonprofits from Best Buy Foundation

Best Buy Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Albemarle County, Virginia +47 more
Up to US $24,999
Nonprofit organizations offering STEAM workshops or tech skills programs for youth ages 13–19, including those in Des Moines County, Iowa, can apply for up to US $24,999 to deliver Mini Tech Skills Workshops. Focus areas include coding, filmmaking, game design, music production, photography, robotics, and related career exploration opportunities for Best Buy Teen Tech Center members.
After School / Summer Educational Programs Youth Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness +2 more

Iowa HHS Grants for Des Moines County Families

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
State/Local Government
Clarke County, Iowa, Decatur County, Iowa +9 more
Up to US $277,000
Eligible backbone organizations in Des Moines County, Iowa can apply for up to US $277,000 to lead early intervention and support efforts for families. Funding from Iowa Department of Health and Human Services backs community-led work on social determinants of health, family preservation, and prevention of child welfare crises within the Thrive Iowa initiative.
Family Services Child Welfare Services Health Disparities & Social Determinants of Health

Des Moines County Community Funding via BNSF Foundation

BNSF Foundation
Private
Acadia Parish, Louisiana, Adams County, Colorado +658 more
US $1,000 - US $10,000
Nonprofits, schools, local government divisions, and federally recognized tribal governments in Des Moines County, Iowa can seek US $1,000 - US $10,000 to support community, cultural, educational, health, and youth programs. Focused on community quality of life, BNSF Foundation invites projects near its rail lines, with preference for environmental, human services, STEM education, and rail-connected initiatives.
Recreation Environment Art & Culture +6 more

Des Moines County Nutrition Funding via Bayer Fund

Bayer Fund
Corporate
Ada County, Idaho, Adams County, Nebraska +488 more
Unspecified amount
Des Moines County, Iowa nonprofits and public entities running food access or nutrition education programs can access funding through Bayer Fund to address malnutrition and hunger. Eligible applicants must be established, financially sound 501(c)(3) organizations or government units located in an eligible legacy-Monsanto community, serving underserved or rural families, especially those with young children.
Nutrition & Healthy Eating Food Access & Hunger

STEM Education Funding from Project Lead The Way

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +22 more
US $10,000
Public, private, and charter elementary schools starting new PLTW Launch STEM programs in Des Moines County, Iowa can apply for grants of US $10,000 to cover participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs. Grants from Project Lead The Way, in partnership with John Deere Foundation, prioritize high-need schools near John Deere facilities.
STEM / STEAM Education

STEM Education Funding from Project Lead The Way

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +22 more
US $20,000
Middle schools in Des Moines County, Iowa serving predominantly free and reduced lunch students can apply for Project Lead The Way’s PLTW Gateway – New Program grants; awards US $20,000 for launching and expanding PLTW Gateway STEM units. Funds may cover participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and PLTW Core Training costs.
STEM / STEAM Education

Engineering Program Grants for Schools from Project Lead The Way

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +22 more
US $35,000
Des Moines County, Iowa schools serving high percentages of students on free and reduced lunch can access funding to launch new PLTW Engineering programs and add courses over three years. Project Lead The Way and the John Deere Foundation provide up to US $35,000 for PLTW participation fees, required technology, equipment, supplies, and core training costs.
Engineering

Engineering Program Expansion Funding from Project Lead The Way

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +22 more
US $10,000
Public, private, and charter schools expanding existing PLTW Engineering programs in Des Moines County, Iowa can apply for US $10,000 to add courses, sections, or train additional PLTW Engineering teachers. Project Lead The Way and the John Deere Foundation support schools near John Deere facilities serving predominantly free and reduced lunch students with STEM equipment, fees, and training costs.
Engineering

Community Program Funding from Alliant Energy

Alliant Energy
Corporate
Allamakee County, Iowa, Appanoose County, Iowa +51 more
Unspecified amount
Nonprofit and community organizations in Des Moines County, Iowa that are within communities Alliant Energy serves can apply for Alliant Energy Foundation’s Community Grants to support specific programs and projects. Funding may assist hunger and housing services, workforce readiness and youth development, environmental stewardship, community safety, first responders, playgrounds, trails, and local events.
Basic Human Needs Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Financial Literacy +28 more

Andersen Corporate Foundation Support for Housing

Andersen Corporate Foundation
Private
Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, Chisago County, Minnesota +11 more
US $5,000 - US $50,000
501(c)(3) nonprofits in Des Moines County, Iowa can apply for Andersen Corporate Foundation’s grants of US $5,000 - US $50,000 to support housing access, hunger relief, healthcare, and trade education. Eligible organizations may request general operating, program, or capital funding if they align with these giving areas and serve Andersen communities.
Mental Health & Psychiatric Diseases Health Facilities & Clinics Equitable & Affordable Housing +7 more

STEM Education Grants for FIRST Teams from John Deere Foundation

John Deere Foundation
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +19 more
Unspecified amount
With a mission to expand STEM opportunities, John Deere Foundation provides Des Moines County, Iowa FIRST LEGO League Explore teams and other FIRST programs with funding support for underserved, underrepresented, or rural youth. Eligible teams must be school- or 501(c)(3)-based in the U.S. or registered charities in Canada, and meet specific distance or John Deere mentor requirements.
STEM / STEAM Education

Nestlé Purina Grants for Des Moines County Animal Welfare

Nestlé Purina
Corporate
Adams County, Colorado, Adams County, Pennsylvania +361 more
Unspecified amount
Nonprofit 501(c)(3) pet welfare organizations hosting cat or dog welfare events in Des Moines County, Iowa can seek event sponsorship support, including monetary aid or product donations. Grants from Nestlé Purina help eligible U.S. groups within 50 miles of designated manufacturing locations fund pet-focused community events with at least six months’ lead time.
Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Wilhelmina Holder Student Assistance Emergency Fund

Community Foundation Of New Jersey
Private
United States
Up to US $5,000

Community Foundation of New Jersey

Over our 46-year history, the Community Foundation of New Jersey has collaborated with individuals, families, organizations, and businesses to design charitable funds and implement the philanthropic solutions they want to see in their communities. We leverage $1.17 billion in assets and 1,200 funds to help our partners think boldly and creatively about ways to give.

Scholarship Fund Overview

Beyond a shared commitment to educational opportunity, families establish scholarship funds with a variety of goals and purposes in mind. They may offer traditional scholarships or customize fund awards for alternative scholarships.

Currently, CFNJ administers more than 135 scholarship funds. Our scholarship opportunities run the gamut, from those exclusive to a local high school or geographic region to those supporting specific majors or career pursuits. Last year, we awarded over $2 million in scholarship assistance to 271 scholars.

Applicants may be evaluated on academic performance; extracurricular activities; community involvement; paid or unpaid work; and a statement of their personal aspirations, educational goals, and demonstrated unmet financial need in our scholarship review process.

Wilhelmina Holder Student Assistance Emergency Fund

Nurturing the brilliance of Newark’s youth

Wilhelmina Holder believed that we all have a role to play in changing the world around us. As a Newark resident, education advocate, parent organizer, and co-director of an after-school college access and prep program, her no-nonsense and energizing approach made her a “community mom” to many. She encouraged those around her to live with purpose and nurtured the brilliance of Newark’s youth.

In 2023, an emergency fund was created in honor of Wilhelmina’s life’s work. It’s maintained, funded, and distributed by Newark residents who value and embody her spirit of aspiring to greatness through postsecondary success and uplifting the community through advocacy. 

Emergency Support

This emergency fund focuses on Newark residents currently enrolled in postsecondary programs — including colleges, universities, and certification programs — who need assistance with daily and unexpected costs that financial aid doesn’t cover. Covered costs include books, fees, transportation, food, etc., along with any unexpected emergencies that might derail students’ chances of earning a postsecondary degree or certificate.

If your home address is located in Newark, fill out a fund application. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and awards are given four times a year in January, May, August, and November. Students may apply for any amount up to $5,000 and must demonstrate a documented need.

Education - Higher Education College Success / Persistence

Humane Organization Grant

St. Croix Valley Foundation
Private
Iowa, Michigan +4 more
Up to US $3,000

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

  • Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
  • Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

  • Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
  • Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
  • Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Humane Organization Grant Program 

Mission

To enhance the quality of life of shelter/ rescue animals and to increase their chances for adoption. 

The St. Croix Valley Foundation (SCVF) Humane Organization grant program funded by the Compassionate Animal Fund, is accepting applications (invitation only) from Managed Open Admission humane organizations located in the upper Midwest. The grants, ranging up to $3,000, can cover items on your “wish list” including food, supplies, infrastructure needs, and veterinary cost. 

Funding Criteria

Grants are intended to provide funds for items such as food, supplies, medicine, spay/neuter programs (for in-house animals to aid in adoption) newsletters, or other needs and/or programs that most benefit the humane organization.

​We understand that shelters may differ in the services or alternatives they offer during the waiting period prior to intake. If your facility is at capacity, you must provide a clear statement outlining how emergency surrenders and stray animals are handled, including the procedures your organization follows to operate as an Open Admission shelter.  

Animal Welfare - Domestic Animals & Pets

Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500

Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation Scholarship will provide need-based scholarships of up to $2,500 to service-oriented college freshmen who have completed a minimum of 60 hours of community service within the last 12 months. Awards will be issued in the 2025-2026 academic year, and may be renewed annually through the senior year.

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation is committed to the positive development of youth and future leaders. Through providing programs focused on financial literacy, education, mentoring, health and wellness, and early childhood development, the Foundation promotes the preparation of succeeding generations of leaders.

Education - Higher Education Community Services

The Coco Gauff Tennis Scholarship

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $8,500

The Coco Gauff Tennis Scholarship

The Coco Gauff Tennis Scholarship will provide a need-based scholarship of up to $8,500 to eligible HBCU student-athletes competing on their intercollegiate tennis teams. Awards will be issued in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Education - Higher Education Sports & Athletics Tennis

Jack and Jill - Jacqueline Moore Bowles Scholarship

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $2,500

Jack and Jill - Jacqueline Moore Bowles Scholarship

The Jack and Jill of America Foundation is committed to the positive development of youth and future leaders. Through providing programs focused on financial literacy, education, mentoring, health and wellness, and early childhood development, the Foundation promotes the preparation of succeeding generations of leaders.

In partnership with UNCF, the Jack and Jill of America Foundation - Jacqueline Moore Bowles Scholarship was developed to provide a one-time need-based scholarship of up to $2,500 to service-oriented undergraduate students majoring in Communications. 

Applicants must have completed a minimum of 60 hours of volunteer and community service within 12 months preceding the application deadline. Awards will be issued in the 2025-2026 spring term.

Education - Higher Education News Media & Communications

Dr. Eric J. Maybach Memorial Scholarship

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation

The Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF) began in December 2000 when nine concerned citizens from Virginia’s Piedmont region were searching for solutions to the charitable needs in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties. With modest beginnings, our funds have grown to over $39 million in support of local charities, scholarships and community need in our northern Piedmont region.

Scholarships

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation manages the scholarship application process for dozens of scholarships for students in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties (as well as a handful serving students from surrounding counties too). 

Dr. Eric J. Maybach Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of a local family practitioner, Dr. Eric J. Maybach. Dr. Maybach treated countless residents of Fauquier County, and in his honor, a scholarship was created. Qualifying applicants must be a resident of Fauquier County and pursuing a degree in medicine – medical school, nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant. Award amount varies.

Education - Higher Education Medical Education & Professional Training

Fauquier County Chamber Of Commerce Max Tufts, Sr. Memorial

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation

The Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF) began in December 2000 when nine concerned citizens from Virginia’s Piedmont region were searching for solutions to the charitable needs in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties. With modest beginnings, our funds have grown to over $39 million in support of local charities, scholarships and community need in our northern Piedmont region.

Scholarships

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation manages the scholarship application process for dozens of scholarships for students in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties (as well as a handful serving students from surrounding counties too). 

Fauquier County Chamber Of Commerce Max Tufts, Sr. Memorial

This scholarship was created in memory of Maximilian A. Tufts Sr. who was an energetic community volunteer. He was committed to many organizations including the Fauquier County Chamber of Commerce, Highland School, Fauquier Community Action Committee, Fauquier Human Relation Committee, Warrenton Rescue Squad, the Meadows Outdoors Foundation and the Airlie Foundation. Eligible students should be college or university bound graduating seniors from any Fauquier County public or private high school. Scholarship recipients should demonstrate involvement in both school and community. 

Education - Higher Education

Fauquier NAACP – Dr. Ellsworth Weaver Education Scholarship

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,000

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation

The Northern Piedmont Community Foundation (NPCF) began in December 2000 when nine concerned citizens from Virginia’s Piedmont region were searching for solutions to the charitable needs in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties. With modest beginnings, our funds have grown to over $39 million in support of local charities, scholarships and community need in our northern Piedmont region.

Scholarships

Northern Piedmont Community Foundation manages the scholarship application process for dozens of scholarships for students in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, and Rappahannock counties (as well as a handful serving students from surrounding counties too). 

Fauquier NAACP – Dr. Ellsworth Weaver Education Scholarship

The Dr. Ellsworth Weaver Education Scholarship celebrates the legacy of Dr. Ellsworth Weaver, a former president of the Fauquier County NAACP Branch 7059 and a dedicated advocate for education and equality. Each year, a $1,000 scholarship is awarded to one graduating senior from each of Fauquier County’s three public high schools. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA and plan to attend an accredited trade, technical, or vocational school, community college, or four-year university. Selection is based on academic achievement, leadership, service, citizenship, and extracurricular involvement.

Minority students, those facing financial or personal hardships, and individuals committed to improving their communities are strongly encouraged to apply. As part of the required essay, applicants should describe a significant challenge or barrier they encountered during their educational journey and explain how they overcame that difficulty.

Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education

Gantt-McColl Scholarship Fund

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $30,000

Gantt-McColl Scholarship Fund

In honor of Harvey Gantt and Hugh McColl, UNCF established the Gantt-McColl Scholarship Fund to provide financial assistance in an annually renewable, need-based scholarship to students who are permanent residents of North Carolina to get to and through college.

Individual Award

  • Up to $30,000 over 4-Years ($7,500) per school year
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation

Early Talent Opportunity Program

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Early Talent Opportunity Program

The UNCF Early Talent Opportunity Program (ETOP) is a summer experience comprised of workshops and individual sessions designed to offer customized support for undergraduate college students who are interested in securing a valuable internship experience.

The UNCF Early Talent Opportunity Program (ETOP) is a FREE summer experience comprised of a series of workshops and individual career coaching designed to offer personalized support for rising college sophomores and juniors who are interested in securing an internship for the following summer. Over 5 weeks, students participate in 1 hour 15-minute virtual workshops designed to take a deeper dive into specific topics for career development and student success. 

All fields of work Education - Higher Education

Early Career Talent Development General Application

United Negro College Fund Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Early Career Talent Development General Application

The UNCF Student Professional Development Programs (SPDP) Department works closely with some of the nation’s leading corporations and foundations to shape and execute internship programs, including both stand-alone internship programs and internship-and-scholarship programs

The UNCF Student Professional Development Programs (SPDP) Department works closely with some of the nation’s leading corporations and foundations to shape and execute internship programs, including both stand-alone internship programs and internship-and-scholarship programs with two goals – 

  • To help companies build a more diverse workforce; 
  • To provide diverse students with the preparation they need to succeed in college, familiarize themselves with professional career paths, and prepare to be competitive candidates for internships and future employers after graduation.

UNCF’s SPDP partners include The Walt Disney Company, Toyota, Papa Johns, United Health Foundation, Wells Fargo, and the Walton Family Foundation. We currently serve over 1500 students annually through internship, leadership, and professional development services.

The UNCF Student Professional Development Programs (SPDP) offer career readiness, success coaching, and paid summer and semester internships to college students. Students participating in SPDP will be exposed to career pathways and opportunities and have access to leadership and personal development training. 

SPDP students will:

  • Prepare to navigate from college to early-stage careers
  • Enhance professional experiences through meaningful internships
  • Develop stronger project management skills
  • Improve networking and communication skills
  • Strengthen interviewing techniques 

Currently, the SPDP is sourcing candidates to fill for summer 2026 internships!! The Early Career Talent Development General Application is used to establish an applicant pool of potentially eligible students for these ongoing internship/student professional development opportunities that are published/unpublished. Internship or professional development opportunities using the Early Career Talent Development General Application, are restricted to students who are enrolled full time at an accredited institution within the U.S. during the 2025-2026 academic year. 

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Apprenticeship & Internship Programs

Des Moines County Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

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Read more about each grant below or start your 14-day free trial to see all Des Moines County grants recommended for your specific programs.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Grant Funding Trends in Iowa

Average Grant Size

What's the typical amount funded for Iowa?

Grants are most commonly $82,635.

$82,635

Total Number of Grants

What's the total number of grants in Des Moines County Grants for Nonprofits year over year?

In 2024, funders in Iowa awarded a total of 28,032 grants.

2022 25,336

2023 26,582

2024 28,032

Top Grant Focus Areas

Among all the Des Moines County Grants for Nonprofits given out in Iowa, the most popular focus areas that receive funding are Education, Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations, and Human Services.

1. Education

2. Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations

3. Human Services

Funding Over Time

How is funding for Des Moines County Grants for Nonprofits changing over time?

Funding has increased by 9.41%.

2022 $2,079,026,768

2023 $2,108,613,200
1.42%

2024 $2,307,128,111
9.41%

Iowa Counties That Receive the Most Funding

How does grant funding vary by county?

Polk County, Story County, and Johnson County receive the most funding.

County Total Grant Funding in 2024
Polk County $545,560,005
Story County $266,280,101
Johnson County $184,865,698
Linn County $166,016,288
Boone County $155,314,892

Related Grants in Iowa

Browse Grants by Cities within Iowa

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