Search Through Grants for Nonprofit Human Services in Iowa in the U.S.

About The Foundation

The Change Happens Foundation is dedicated to allocating our resources to charitable activities and programs that are aligned with our pillars and fall within our budgetary constraints. Organizations whose projects do not satisfy our eligibility standards or match to our focus areas are encouraged not to proceed with an LOI. For those seeking foundations with interests aligned to their work, the Foundation Center offers a valuable resource—a searchable database designed to assist nonprofits in identifying potential funding opportunities.

The Change Happens Foundation is dedicated to supporting charitable activities that align with our pillars areas, strictly adhering to the guidelines of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code and Treasury Regulations. We are committed to the effective use of our grants, which are monitored through comprehensive financial and performance reporting by our grantees.

Our Pillars

Environmental Science

Systemic Change

Fostering a future where innovation intersects with environmental stewardship, we are committed to strategically investing in forward-thinking programs that catalyze systemic and sustainable solutions. Our dedication lies in addressing and overcoming the critical environmental challenges that confront our planet. Through these targeted investments, we aim not just to contribute, but to set in motion a ripple effect of change, driving progress towards a healthier, more resilient, and greener world for generations to come.

Education

Creating Opportunities

At the heart of our mission is a steadfast commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a strong focus on early education and STEM learning. We are dedicated to empowering women and underrepresented communities, breaking down barriers to education and access in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics from the earliest stages of learning. By fostering opportunities that ignite curiosity, fuel aspirations, and open doors, we are laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and innovation. Our investment in these communities is an investment in a future where transformative change is not only envisioned but realized, shaping a society that celebrates diversity, practices equity, and embraces inclusion at every level.

Human Services

Nutrition & Support

Our approach to combatting food insecurity and bolstering community health is rooted in thoughtful and strategic funding initiatives that delve deep into the underlying causes of these pervasive issues. We are unwavering in our commitment to support and scale up programs that do more than just provide – they empower. By ensuring access to wholesome, nutritious food and comprehensive healthcare services, we are actively bridging gaps for those in dire need. Our mission transcends mere assistance; it's about nurturing a robust infrastructure that fosters long-term resilience and well-being, affirming our belief that everyone deserves the fundamental right to health and nutrition.

The Leighty Foundation (TLF) is a small family foundation incorporated under Iowa law.  Directors and advisors live in Colorado, Alaska, and California.

Mission

To carry on the Leighty family legacy of service and stewardship by leveraging our time and talents, as well as our financial resources, primarily in the areas of Earth Protection, Education, Philanthropy, and Strategic Volunteer Engagement.Focus Areas Earth Protection “Environmental” has become trite, and does not convey the profound, urgent, and necessary changes in the way our species perceives and relates to our fellow species on Earth, and to its wonderful physical systems. The Leighty Foundation is especially interested in accelerating humanity’s transition to a sustainable, equitable, benign, affordable global energy system based entirely upon renewable energy sources — driven by radiant energy from our local star, the Sun, and by geothermal. Our earliest, most rewarding investments will be energy conservation and efficiency, while we invent and invest to “run the world on renewables.” We assist science education, so that we will better understand who and what and where we humans are, and to better understand Earth and our options for cooperation within its context and limits. Thus, we intend to invest wisely in Earth Protection, with both Foundation funds and with our personal involvement. An urgent Grand Challenge is transforming the world’s largest industry from about 80% fossil to nearly 100% renewable, CO2-emission-free energy sources, as quickly as we prudently and profitably can. Prudently: with acceptable social and economic disruption. Profitably: the huge amount of capital needed will flow only to attractive opportunities for returns. Electricity systems may be inadequate or technically and economically suboptimal for this transformation. Therefore, we now need to think beyond electricity, to comprehensively consider alternatives. Hydrogen (H2) and Anhydrous Ammonia (NH3) are attractive, energy carriers, storage media, and fuels – as complete renewable energy systems. The Leighty Foundation Earth Protection program focuses on the Big Three challenges of time-variable renewable generation:

• Gathering and transmission;
• Low-cost, annual-scale, firming storage;
• Distribution, integration, and end-use of energy services.

Strategic Volunteer Engagement Our nation finds itself faced with a perfect storm with shrinking resources and escalating needs. Meeting these needs will require a dramatic increase in the number of people willing to give their time and skills as well as their financial resources. However, the challenge may be less about increasing the number of people who volunteer, and more about building infrastructures which connect people with worthy opportunities, and empower them to make a meaningful difference.There is a growing awareness that even if Americans respond to the myriad of calls for service, many charities are not prepared to effectively engage them. A recent survey found that more than 30% of charities do not currently have the infrastructure to effectively deploy volunteers. Now is the time for us as funders to seize this unique opportunity to financially support nonprofits in building their capacity.

ABOUT PRAIRIE MEADOWS

Prairie Meadows has played an important role in central Iowa since we opened in 1989. That’s because we are a nonprofit, locally-managed business, one of only two nonprofit casinos in the nation. We began with the goal of lessening the burden of government by promoting economic development, jobs, agriculture, and tourism in the state of Iowa.

Our Story

Outstanding entertainment offerings have made Prairie Meadows the No. 1 entertainment destination in Iowa. Prairie Meadows offers nonstop casino action, live and simulcast horse racing, sports wagering, big-name entertainment, local and regional musical acts, and full-service dining amenities. Additionally, Prairie Meadows Hotel provides our guests with a convenient, comfortable place to stay. And our Events Center facilities are ideal for hosting large community gatherings, weddings, business meetings, trade shows, and celebrations with friends and family.

As a licensed 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation, Prairie Meadows supports a broad range of nonprofit proposals and projects that support arts and culture, education, economic development, and human services. 

Sponsorship & Donations

Prairie Meadows provides support to non-profit organizations for event sponsorships and in-kind donations. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

The West Bancorporation Foundation, Inc. (the "Foundation") is the charitable foundation affiliate of West Bancorporation, Inc. West Bancorporation is the parent of West Bank which is actively involved in the greater Des Moines, Iowa City/Coralville and Minnesota areas where we do business and where our employees are leaders in helping our communities and citizens grow and prosper.

Listed below are the charitable contribution guidelines for the Foundation in Central Iowa, Eastern Iowa and Minnesota. Our giving priority is to support programs whose primary purpose is to benefit low- and moderate- income individuals.

The Foundation focuses contributions to: 

• Human Service 
• Education
• Arts & Culture

Black Hawk County Grants

Community Impact Grants are awarded throughout Black Hawk County from the unrestricted funds designated to improving the county. The CFNEIA distribution committee awards grants to create impact that addresses community and county needs.

Areas of Focus

The Community Foundation provides eligible agencies one-year discretionary grants on a competitive basis to improve life for residents of Black Hawk County, Iowa. Requests can be for operations, programming, materials, equipment, and capital projects. Areas of support are in the following program areas:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Education & Youth Development
• Health
• Human service

Grant Amounts

The majority of our competitive grants range from $5,000 to $25,000. Applicants interested in applying for more than the range are encouraged to contact Program Director prior to applying.

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people. 

Chickasaw County Grants

The Chickasaw County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Chickasaw County. Our mission is to respond to the current and future charitable needs of Chickasaw County by securing endowment funds, creating mechanisms to meet community needs, serving as a convener to examine and determine community needs, and facilitating the development of solutions to community problems.

What We Support

The Chickasaw County Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Chickasaw County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county.  

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

Highest priority for funding is given to projects that:

• Provide a detailed budget and show other funding sources for the project.
• Show substantial long-term community impact through number of individuals served.
• Show the ability to be sustained once the grant funds are expended.

The project or program described in your application may be funded in full, partially funded or not at all. The more information you can provide in your application the better.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Akron Community Foundation

Background

Florence Peterson had a vision to ensure that charitable programs in the community were supported now and in the future. In 2001, she planted the first seeds of giving through a gift from her estate to establish an endowment within the Siouxland Community Foundation for the exclusive benefit of the Akron, Iowa community. The Akron Community Foundation now serves as a vehicle to receive gifts from individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to establish endowment funds that will provide grant awards for years to come. All gifts received are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in Akron. A seven-member advisory board appointed by position is responsible for governing the Foundation.

Mission

The mission of the Akron Community Foundation is to identify and fulfill community needs, impact future growth and development of Akron, promote volunteerism, attract and distribute funds, and enhance the quality of life in Akron by providing leadership, creating opportunities, and challenging the community to share time, talent, and resources through personal involvement and commitment.

The purpose of the Akron Community Foundation is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in the Akron community.

Akron Community Foundation Grant

Purpose

The purpose of the Akron Community Foundation’s grant program is to respond to present and emerging charitable needs within Akron by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

Grantmaking

The great majority of grants are given to organizations located in, and for projects to be conducted within, the state of Iowa and portions of Illinois, as well as to other organizations in which Mr. Carver had an interest during his lifetime. Generally speaking, the Carver Trust supports biomedical and scientific research, scholarships, and programs addressing the educational and recreational needs of youth. 

Program Areas

Elementary and Secondary Education

Supporting educational opportunities for youth, beginning with kindergarten and continuing through high school graduation, is a cornerstone of Carver Trust giving. Grant-making activities in this area may be divided into three, broad categories, each with the goal of enhancing access to resources and the application of innovative approaches to teaching and learning. Read more about this program area.

Higher Education

The Trust’s interests in the area of higher education extend to those projects that strengthen institutions and offer innovative learning opportunities to students enrolled in baccalaureate and graduate programs throughout the grant-making region of Iowa and parts of Illinois. Typically, funding is awarded to capital or programmatic initiatives that seek to substantively improve instruction or increase access to educational resources, with the goal of better preparing students for future academic and professional challenges. Projects incorporating interdisciplinary approaches and demonstrating the potential for lasting impact among a diverse range of students are especially encouraged. Read more about this program area.

Medical and Scientific Research

The goal of the Trust’s program in medical and scientific research is to provide support for innovative investigation that may hold great promise for advancing scientific knowledge and, in many cases, improving human health. To this end, the Trust has supported a variety of university-based scientific endeavors, most notably in the basic medical sciences, the chemical and biological sciences, and engineering. Although a majority of funding is awarded for the purpose of addressing institutional capital needs, a parallel focus of this program area is the research efforts of particular laboratories, often emphasizing multidisciplinary approaches and encouraging the development of untried, and inherently risky, specific aims. Read more about this program area.

Youth Services and Recreation

Projects receiving Trust funding under the youth program designation are typically designed to complement curriculum-based education and encourage individual development and physical well-being. Of the grants awarded within this category, a significant portion has been directed toward the efforts of organizations advocating for disadvantaged and disabled youth and their families. As an example, improving the conditions at adolescent residential facilities in Iowa, including those that offer opportunities for special-needs populations, has represented an important area of Trust charitable giving around the state.

In addition, grants to help communities establish safe and affordable recreation opportunities are also part of the youth-directed programming. The Trust offers strategic funding for the development of public recreation facilities and related activities for children, with priority given to projects in the Iowa counties of Muscatine, Cedar, Louisa and Scott, as well as Rock Island and Mercer Counties in Illinois. More information on the youth recreation program area may be found under Trust Initiated Programming & Guidelines.

Miscellaneous

Grants listed under this designation are those that, for various reasons, do not fall within the Trust’s primary program classifications. Many grants classified as miscellaneous are for projects receiving special consideration for their direct impact on the local Muscatine region.

Awards in this category of Trust giving may, for example, provide support to organizations mobilizing to help area residents following a natural disaster or emergency, such as flooding or storm damage. Other assistance of this type has been directed to local first-responder and law enforcement agencies, which have received occasional support for specialized medical, firefighting and policing equipment, as well as situations whereby certain area nonprofits are seeking one-time support for urgent capital or programming needs.

Still other miscellaneous grants celebrate special events and aspects of Muscatine and its history, as well as organizations and projects that share a unique connection to the life and interests of Roy Carver. Additionally, occasional grants in this program area may serve to emphasize important natural resources throughout the local area and the upper Mississippi River region, with a focus on projects that help to guide children and youth toward a deeper understanding of, and respect for, the ecosystem and surrounding environment.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Ida County Community Betterment Foundation

Background

The Ida County Community Betterment Foundation (ICCBF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The ICCBF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Ida County.

Mission

The mission of the ICCBF is to promote philanthropy, serve as a vehicle to carry out the charitable objective of donors, build endowments, identify needs and make grants for the benefit of the citizens and communities of Ida County.

The purpose of the ICCBF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Ida County.

Ida County Community Betterment Foundation Grant

Purpose

The purpose of the ICCBF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Ida County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.. 
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Monona County Community Partners Foundation

Background

The Monona County Community Partners Foundation (MCCPF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Monona County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the Monona County Community Partners Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations in the communities it serves by linking philanthropic leadership and charitable resources with needs and opportunities in the county.

The purpose of the MCCPF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Monona County.

Monona County Community Partners Foundation Grant

The purpose of the MCCPF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Monona County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Monona County Community Partners Foundation (MCCPF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The MCCPF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Monona County.

Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation improves the quality of life in Linn County, Iowa by promoting charitable giving; connecting donors to the causes they care about; strengthening nonprofits through grants and support; and providing leadership on community issues that involve charitable giving. The Community Foundation is a public, nonprofit organization with over $194 million in assets and over 1,000 different charitable funds.

Mission

To help donors give in meaningful ways, to strengthen nonprofits, and to provide leadership that supports a vibrant community.

Priorities

The Community Foundation’s grantmaking program invests in innovation, sustainability and capacity building across the spectrum of the entire nonprofit sector including education, health and human services, arts and culture, environment and public benefit.

PROGRAM SUPPORT GRANTS

Program Support Grants support new, innovative programs and sustain current and/or ongoing programs that demonstrate impact on the quality of life in Linn County, Iowa.

This fund is intended to target the programmatic work of an organization and is not intended to assist with capital infrastructure projects (bricks and mortar) projects.

New initiatives are always limited to a maximum of $15,000. Ongoing programs are up to $30,000 depending on organizational budget. Duration of Grants is 12 months.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Sioux County Community Foundation

Background

The Sioux County Community Foundation (SCCF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Sioux County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the Sioux County Community Foundation is to encourage and provide opportunities for charitable giving, to manage and distribute funds in a responsible manner, and to enhance the quality of life for the people of Sioux County, Iowa.

The purpose of the SCCF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Sioux County.

An Advisory Board representing each community and the varied interests of Sioux County is responsible for governing the Foundation.

Sioux County Community Foundation Grant

The purpose of the SCCF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Sioux County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events. 
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Sioux County Community Foundation (SCCF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The SCCF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Sioux County.

Bremer County Community Foundation

The Bremer County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Bremer County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Bremer County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Bremer County. The Readlyn Community Fund is a component fund within the Bremer County Community Foundation. The fund has been set up to support projects in Readlyn.

What We Fund

The Bremer County Community Foundation (BCCF) and the Readlyn Community Fund (RCF) committees provide grants to improve life throughout Bremer County, Iowa, as well as in Readlyn specifically. We want to help develop all our communities into places where people want to live, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

Funding Priorities

Our top priority is to fund nonprofits most affected by and/or dealing with the Coronavirus outbreak. Applicants are encouraged to apply for general operating support instead of project-based proposals. 

Beyond that, highest priority for funding is given to projects that:

• Address a community need, demonstrate broad-based community support, and provide benefits that are community/county wide. 
• Show a high level of support or leveraged (match) funding from other sources.
• Maximize community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and work to eliminate redundant services, programs, or projects. 
• Show long-term sustainability of the project without annual grant support from the BCCF.

The Buchanan County Community Foundation

The Buchanan County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Buchanan County. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for the people of Buchanan County by helping donors carry out their charitable intent and by providing responsible stewardship of gifts for community purposes.

What We Support

The Buchanan County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Buchanan County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

About the Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation

The Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Cerro Gordo County. The vision of the Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation is to be a premier philanthropic program enhancing and impacting the lives of the residents of Cerro Gordo County through donor opportunities, endowment growth and management, and responsible and local grant distribution.

What We Fund

The Cerro Gordo County Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Cerro Gordo County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

The Iowa County Community Foundation

The Iowa County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Iowa County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Iowa County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options.

What We Fund

The Iowa County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Iowa County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

The Winnebago County Community Foundation

The Winnebago County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, was formed with the intent to encourage endowment building for the long-term benefit of Winnebago County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Winnebago County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Winnebago County.

What We Fund

The Winnebago County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Winnebago County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Art & culture
• Community betterment
• Education
• Environment
• Health
• Historic preservation
• Human service

About Us

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is an independent, 501(c)3 public charity that enables people with philanthropic interests to support causes they care about in Fort Dodge, Webster County, and North Central Iowa. The Fort Dodge Community Foundation creates long-term assets and makes grants to better our community and improve its quality of life.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation develops lasting legacies for community-minded citizens through funds that are designed to support the charitable goals of donors. From these funds, grants are made in support of a wide range of charitable causes and non-profit organizations that address a broad scope of current and long-term community needs and community betterment opportunities.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is a unique philanthropic organization. In July 2007, the United Way of Greater Fort Dodge and the Community Foundation of Fort Dodge and North Central Iowa merged into one philanthropic organization. Merging the two organizations provided the opportunity to leverage administrative 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 Fort Dodge Community Foundation makes a constant effort to stay ahead of emerging issues in our community and county. We work in partnership with civic, business, nonprofit and government leaders to identify and address important community needs and opportunities that will enhance the quality of life in our community and region.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation meets the National Standards established by the Council on Foundations for U.S. Community Foundations, which are philanthropy’s most rigorous standards. Community foundations that meet these standards have demonstrated that they abide by the highest legal, ethical and effective operating practices, financial oversight, transparency and accountability.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation works hard to earn the trust and respect of our community so it can effectively serve as the entity in Fort Dodge/Webster County for community-based philanthropic giving. We encourage citizens to invest in their community through the annual United Way community campaign and by establishing endowment and donor advised funds for the purpose of investing in the future vitality, growth and development of our community.

County Endowment Funding Grant

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation is an independent 501(c) (3) public charity that enables people with philanthropic interests to develop lasting legacies through funds that support causes, programs and organizations in their community that they care about, easily and effectively. Serving Fort Dodge, Webster County and Northwest-Central Iowa, the Fort Dodge Community Foundation makes grants from these funds to a wide-range of charitable causes and non-profit organizations to address a wide-range of current and future community needs.

As an advocate and catalyst for charitable giving, the Fort Dodge Community Foundation develops charitable resources to support important community programs, services, projects and nonprofit organizations to advance the public good, foster economic prosperity and improve the quality of life of all citizens, families and youth.

The Fort Dodge Community Foundation serves as an asset development organization that provides positive and proactive leadership and significant resources to help the Fort Dodge community and region become a place where people will want to live, work, recreate, and raise their families.

These grants are provided to charitable organizations to support projects that are considered charitable and are focused on improving quality of life in Iowa communities.

The County Endowment Fund is a state-funded program that provides financial assistance to a large number of Community Foundations or Community Affiliate Organizations around the state to support projects that are considered charitable and are focused on improving quality of life in Iowa communities. The dollars distributed in this program come from state's gaming tax revenues and are available on a yearly basis. Qualified community foundations that meet national standards for community foundations or a community affiliate organization that has affiliated with such a foundation administer these funds for their counties.

As a vehicle for community-based philanthropy, the Foundation is dedicated to using its chartable resources in the most efficient and effective ways by making grants back to our community and county that address four key principles:

• Enriching the quality of life of all citizens, family and youth;
• Supporting the common good;
• Enhancing economic vitality;
• Advancing community betterment.

Fund For Siouxland Grant

The Fund For Siouxland, an unrestricted endowment fund, provides the Community Foundation with the greatest flexibility to respond to the ever-changing needs in Siouxland communities. Contributors (individuals, families, corporations and other foundations) have made an investment in the future of Siouxland by helping to build our community’s charitable endowment. The fund is invested in accordance with the Community Foundation’s investment policy. Only the income that is generated is used to make the grants year after year.

Focus Areas

Donors to this fund, from all walks of life, recognize its importance and impact on the quality of life in Siouxland by allowing the Community Foundation to address a variety of needs in the following five focus areas: 

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to cultural and educational resources for theatre, music, arts, dance, museums.
• Civic Affairs: Community betterment, citizen participation, parks & recreation. 
• Education: Early childhood development and parental involvement, improve educational outcomes especially for those at risk, promote higher educational opportunities. 
• Health: Assist communities in the promotion and maintenance of physical and mental health. 
• Human Services: Address and serve the needs of the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Siouxland Community Foundation does not duplicate United Way funding. However, program additions or expansions will be considered.

Funding

Foundation grants generally do not exceed $5,000.

Each year the Foundation receives many more requests than it can support, compelling the Board to make funding decisions based on the number of proposals received, worthiness of the project, relative need, and potential impact – resulting in the greatest good for the greatest number of people.

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation improves the quality of life in Linn County, Iowa by partnering with donors, funders, and other community collaborators to achieve high impact philanthropy; supporting nonprofit organizations that address our community’s needs and opportunities; and convening people to learn, share ideas, and develop solutions for the future. The Community Foundation is a public, nonprofit organization with over $223 million in assets and over 1,000 different charitable funds.

Competitive Donor-Advised Funds

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation accepts grant applications for a number of local corporations and family foundations. Funding priorities are determined by each donor advisor and may include programmatic or operating support, capital campaigns, event sponsorships, and religious activities.

Altorfer Inc.

Eligible Categories: Program or Capital

Fund Priorities:

• Health and human services
• Educational programming
• Community development

Duration of Grant is 12 months. Average Award is $2,400.

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation improves the quality of life in Linn County, Iowa by partnering with donors, funders, and other community collaborators to achieve high impact philanthropy; supporting nonprofit organizations that address our community’s needs and opportunities; and convening people to learn, share ideas, and develop solutions for the future. The Community Foundation is a public, nonprofit organization with over $223 million in assets and over 1,000 different charitable funds.

Competitive Donor-Advised Funds

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation accepts grant applications for a number of local corporations and family foundations. Funding priorities are determined by each donor advisor and may include programmatic or operating support, capital campaigns, event sponsorships, and religious activities.

World Class Industries

Eligible Categories: Program

Priorities:

• Basic health and human services
• Classroom education for Iowa Core Standards
• Capital improvements to support priority program areas. Please submit a program application for these improvements to provide context.

Duration of Grant is 12 months. Award Range is $500 to $10,000.

Purpose

The purpose of the Operations and Program Grant program (formerly known as the Coordinated Field of Interest Grant program) is to provide general operating support or program support for successful ongoing efforts. General operating support is crucial to the long-term success of nonprofit organizations. This grant program aligns with the Community Foundation’s strategic effort to use effective grantmaking practices including:

Flexible Funding: requests for general operating support are eligible for funding, and are given preference.

Reliable Funding: One-year or Two-year requests will be considered.

Nonprofit organizations may apply for a grant from several different Community Foundation funds through the Operations and Program Grant program. To save time and effort, applicants submit one application and are considered for multiple funding sources.

The Operations and Program Grant program continues to follow the original purposes of each fund and the intent set up by its donors. All specific fund purposes fall into one or more fields of interest: Animals & Environment; Arts & Culture; Community Development; Education; Health; and Youth Development.

Fund Focus Areas:

• Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund - General Operating and Program requests only.
• Basic Human Needs—Iowa
• Chip Sunderbruch Memorial Risk Management Fund: Focuses on risk management and safety
• Children at Risk Fund: Focuses on youth programs.
• Health & Wellness Fund: Focuses on health and wellness.
• John J. Quail Fund: Focuses on arts and culture.
• Judith Berger Endowment: Focuses on education, poverty & children in need.
• Nell C. Brennan Fund: Focuses on educational opportunities for underserved children.
• Roy E. Murray Fund: Focuses on youth.
• Sekharan Family Fund: Focuses on hospice and homelessness.

Eichacker + Lofton Grant Fund

The Keokuk Area Community Foundation invests in local nonprofit organizations that contribute to improving the quality of life in ourcommunity.

One of George Eichacker’s and Richard Lofton’s proudest achievements was being the founding fathers of the Keokuk Area Community Foundation. George and Richard established the Keokuk Area Community Foundation Grant Fund to support Keokuk Area organizations in arts and culture, community betterment, education, health, and human services.

To honor George and Richard's legacies, the Keokuk Area Community Foundation Board of Directors renamed the Keokuk Area Community Foundation Grant Fund to the Eichacker/Lofton Grant Fund in 2024. 

Focus of Support

The Keokuk Area Community Foundation primary geographic focus for support encompasses Hancock County - Illinois, Clark County - Missouri, and Lee County - Iowa. Successful grant applications typically address problems to be solved or opportunities to be seized in Tri-State Area. Grant application requests are considered in the fields of arts and culture, community betterment, education, health, and human services.

Priority Funding

• Seed Grants to initiate promising new projects and programs so that those projects and programs are able to demonstrate their usefulness to the community.
• Projects that will enable non-profit and charitable agencies to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and move toward self-sufficiency.
• Projects that address and help resolve important existing or emerging community issues and needs.
• Projects that facilitate cooperation and collaboration among organizations and communities in our area.
• Projects that identify, enhance, and expand leadership in the community through the support of charitable activities that empower individuals.
• Capital expenditures, such as construction, remodeling additions to existing buildings, and equipment purchases.
• Projects for which other grants have been approved but require matching funds for completion.

Funding

Up to US $5,000

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. We connect inspired people to causes they care about most, make grants to strengthen effective nonprofits, and provide leadership on key community issues to make Iowa communities better places. Since 1956, we have been “here for good,” working side-by-side people and organizations as a catalyst for positive community change. Today, CFNEIA works in 20 Iowa counties to meet local needs and fulfill a vision of creating a vibrant region of thriving people. 

Butler County Grants

Grants selections are made in an effort to create a better quality of life for people in Butler County. A local governing committee reviews the applications from charitable organizations serving their community.

What We Support

The Butler County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Butler County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county.

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

The Butler County Community Foundation gives priority to projects that:

• Address vital services/needs within the county.
• Encourage additional funding through matching income from other grants, private donors, and in-kind donations.
• Show substantial number of people served.
• Provide detailed budget specific to project and include quotes/bids for expenses.

About the Fayette County Community Foundation

The Fayette County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Fayette County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Fayette County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Fayette County

What We Support

Grants are made to programs that contribute, in a significant way, to the overall welfare of the people of Fayette County. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. Areas of Foundation giving are: 

• Art and culture
• Community betterment
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Services

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa is a place of connection where generosity and community action meet to create powerful impacts improving the quality of life for all people. 

 Since 1956, we have been a catalyst for transformational change by investing in nonprofit organizations and helping donors meet the needs of their communities. We are a trusted partner and leader when help is needed in developing key community solutions. Today, CFNEIA carries out its mission in 20 Iowa counties to create equitable places where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

The Floyd County Community Foundation

The Floyd County Community Foundation (FCCF), an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization created by and for the people of Floyd County. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for the people of Floyd County by helping donors carry out their charitable intent and by providing responsible stewardship of gifts for community purposes. 

What We Support

The Floyd County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Floyd County, Iowa. We want to help develop communities that people want to live in, as well as to benefit rural areas of the county. 

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

About the Howard County Community Foundation

The Howard County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, was formed by and for the people of Howard County with the intent to encourage endowment building for the long-term benefit of the County. The Community Foundation’s main goals are to support Howard County and to attract additional funds to assist donors in creating lasting legacies through a variety of giving options within Howard County.

What We Fund

The Howard County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Howard County, Iowa. The Foundation wants to develop communities where people want to live, work, play and stay. Areas of Foundation giving are: 

• Art and Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education and Youth Development
• Environmental and Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Services

Applications will be reviewed and scored on the following elements:

• Organization – The overall health of the organization and how the application reflects the organization’s capability for fulfilling the request.
• Feasibility – The probability the request will be successful, including the organization’s level of staff/ volunteers and collaboration with community partners, without long-term financial support from the HCCF.
• Community Need and Outcomes – The need for the request and how the proposed outcomes impact the community/county.
• Request Budget – The details of the budget and the ability to secure and/or leverage other funding sources, including in-kind services.

Funding Priorities

Highest priority for funding is given to requests that:

• Address a community need, demonstrates broad-based community support, and provides benefits that are community/county wide.
• Show support through in-kind services/volunteer labor or leveraged funding from other sources.
• Maximize community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and work to eliminate redundant services, programs, or projects.
• Show long-term sustainability.

Amount

Minimum grant request is $1,000. Grant awards will be between $1,000 - $15,000.