Search Through Grants for Rural Development in Iowa in the U.S.

What does this program do?

This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings.

What is an eligible area?

Rural areas including cities, villages, townships and towns including Federally Recognized Tribal Lands with no more than 20,000 residents according to the latest U.S. Census Data are eligible for this program.

How may funds be used?

Funds can be used to purchase, construct, and / or improve essential community facilities, purchase equipment and pay related project expenses.

Examples of essential community facilities include:

• Health care facilities such as hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, nursing homes or assisted living facilities.
• Public facilities such as town halls, courthouses, airport hangars or street improvements.
• Community support services such as child care centers, community centers, fairgrounds or transitional housing.
• Public safety services such as fire departments, police stations, prisons, police vehicles, fire trucks, public works vehicles or equipment.
• Educational services such as museums, libraries or private schools.
• Utility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment.
• Local food systems such as community gardens, food pantries, community kitchens, food banks, food hubs or greenhouses.

Grant Approval

Applicant must be eligible for grant assistance, which is provided on a graduated scale with smaller communities with the lowest median household income being eligible for projects with a higher proportion of grant funds. Grant assistance is limited to the following percentages of eligible project costs:

Maximum of 75 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 5,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 60 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income.

Maximum of 55 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 12,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 70 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income.

Maximum of 35 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 20,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 80 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income.

Maximum of 15 percent when the proposed project is:

• Located in a rural community having a population of 20,000 or fewer; and
• The median household income of the proposed service area is below the higher of the poverty line or 90 percent of the State nonmetropolitan median household income. The proposed project must meet both percentage criteria. Grants are further limited.

What does this program do?

This program helps eligible communities prepare, or recover from, an emergency that threatens the availability of safe, reliable drinking water.

What kind of event can qualify as an emergency?

• Drought or flood
• Earthquake
• Tornado or hurricane
• Disease outbreak
• Chemical spill, leak or seepage
• Other disasters

How may the funds be used?

• Water transmission line grants up to $150,000 to construct waterline extensions, repair breaks or leaks in existing water distribution lines, and address related maintenance necessary to replenish the water supply
• Water source grants up to $1,000,000 are to construct a water source, intake or treatment facility

Why does USDA Rural Development do this?

This program helps prevent damage or restore households and business' access to clean, reliable drinking water in eligible rural areas and towns following natural disasters. Funding can improve the natural environment and encourage manufacturers and other businesses to locate or expand operations.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

What kind of funding is available? 

Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization. Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

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.

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. 

Franklin County Grants

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

What We Support

The Franklin County Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Franklin 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

In addition, the Franklin County Community prefers to fund projects that:

• Utilize local vendors and contractors when possible
• Are specific projects that enhance the work of nonprofit groups
• Can be completed within the grant period
• Demonstrate multiple sources of income for the project
• Are sustainable without ongoing support from the FCCF

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. 

Grundy County Grants

The Grundy County Community Foundation is an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, created by and for the people of Grundy County for the purpose of generating both endowed and unrestricted funds to support charitable capital projects, activities, services, programs, and organizations that will improve the quality of life for the residents of Grundy County, Iowa.

What We Support

The Grundy County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Grundy 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 extent to which the proposal addresses a community need, demonstrates broad-based community support, and provides benefits to the community-at-large.
• The level of support or leveraged funding from other sources.
• Maximization of community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and the elimination of redundant services, programs, or projects.
• The capacity of the applicant’s organization and staff to achieve the desired result and/or projects that focus on the growth of the organization.
• The sustainability of the proposed project.

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. 

Tama County Grants

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

What We Support

The Tama County Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Tama 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

• Requests that show multiple funding sources for project will be given higher priority by the Tama County Community Foundation.
• Requests that include salaries and/or labor will be given lower priority by the Tama County Community Foundation.

Background

The Destination Iowa Fund Grant Program is funded through a legislative appropriation of $6.5 million. Funds will be awarded to cities, counties, and non-profit organizations proposing to invest in vertical infrastructure to create or expand existing Primary Destinations to increase tourism to the state.

Projects will attract visitors and new residents to the state and bolster the quality of life in Iowa’s rural communities. The aim is to make strategic investments that yield lasting results and create a positive ripple effect throughout the community. These projects will not only address immediate needs but also contribute to long-term sustainability and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.

Eligible projects can receive grant funds up to 25% of eligible project costs related to the construction, development, or expansion of destination. Applicants must have 65% of financing/fundraising secured at time of the pre-application. Half of program funds are allocated to Rural Destinations. Rural is defined as a community that has a population of less than 20,000.

Eligible projects will have minimum total Project costs:

• Urban - $5 million or greater
• Rural - $1.5 million or greater

Primary Destination: means natural, man-made, cultural, recreational or educational attraction(s) that drive visitors to an area. It is the primary target for promoting tourism, attracting visitors, and stimulating economic development in that specific area.

Vertical Infrastructure: means land acquisition and construction, major renovation and major repair of buildings, all appurtenant structures, utilities, site development, recreational trails, and water trails. “Vertical infrastructure” does not include routine, recurring maintenance or operational expenses or leasing of a building, appurtenant structure, or utility without a lease-purchase agreement.

What does this program do?

This program is designed to provide technical assistance and training for small rural businesses. Small means that the business has fewer than 50 new workers and less than $1 million in gross revenue.

What is an eligible area?

Rural Business Development Grant money must be used for projects that benefit rural areas or towns outside the urbanized periphery of any city with a population of 50,000 or more. Check eligible areas. 

What kind of funding is available?

There is no maximum grant amount; however, smaller requests are given higher priority. There is no cost sharing requirement. There are two types of RBDG projects, Opportunity grants and Enterprise grants.

• Opportunity type grants are limited to up to 10 percent of the total Rural Business Development Grant annual funding.
• Enterprise type grants must be used on projects to benefit small and emerging businesses in rural areas as specified in the grant application.

How may Enterprise type funds be used?

Enterprise grants must be used on projects to benefit small and emerging businesses in rural areas as specified in the grant application. Uses may include:

• Training and technical assistance, such as project planning, business counseling and training, market research, feasibility studies, professional or/technical reports, or producer service improvements.
• Acquisition or development of land, easements, or rights of way; construction, conversion, renovation of buildings; plants, machinery, equipment, access for streets and roads; parking areas and utilities.
• Pollution control and abatement.
• The capitalization of revolving loan funds, including funds that will make loans for start-ups and working capital.
• Rural distance learning for job training and advancement for adult students.
• Rural transportation improvement.
• Community economic development.
• Technology-based economic development.
• Feasibility studies and business plans.
• Leadership and entrepreneur training.
• Rural business incubators.
• Long-term business strategic planning.

How may Opportunity type funds be used?

• Community economic development.
• Technology-based economic development.
• Feasibility studies and business plans.
• Leadership and entrepreneur training.
• Rural business incubators.
• Long-term business strategic planning.

Iowa Farm Bureau is proud to provide support for events and fundraisers through sponsorships and donations in the State of Iowa.

Our Giving Priorities

Agriculture – Iowa Farm Bureau Federation is committed to supporting the long-term viability of agriculture, entrepreneurs and rural communities across the state of Iowa. We support programs and organizations that understand and contribute to the value of Iowa agriculture and its future.

Farm Families and their Communities – As a grassroots organization, our sustainability is in our membership, and our goal is to develop and engage the best agricultural leaders across Iowa. We contribute to programs and initiatives that invest in and emphasize support for our member farmers and their families to lead a growing and prosperous Iowa.

Youth and Education – In an effort to create opportunities to develop individuals with great character, a strong work ethic and exceptional leadership skills, Iowa Farm Bureau embraces organizations that prepare the next generation of agricultural innovators.

Health and Wellness – Promoting quality health care and healthy lifestyles is a priority as we continue to protect the livelihood and futures in the communities we serve. Our goal is to give back to organizations that protect and prepare our communities for an enduring future.

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

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. 

Emmet County Grants

The Emmet County Community Foundation, an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is created by and for the people of Emmet County. The Foundation’s mission is to strengthen Emmet County communities by encouraging charitable giving to create legacies for the future. Our grants are designed to act as a catalyst for community transformation and growth, enriching the lives of area citizens.

What We Support

The Emmet County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Emmet 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

• High Priority is given to volunteer projects and/or those that have matching funds from other sources.
• Organization with offices outside of Emmet County should show how the project will benefit county residents.
• Maximize community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and work to eliminate redundant services, programs, or projects.

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

The Mission of Humanities Iowa

To promote understanding and appreciation of the people, communities, culture, and stories of importance to Iowa and the nation.

What We Do

Humanities Iowa (HI) is committed to bringing the humanities to the public through grant making, publications, interactive programming and events.

We provide grants and partnerships to other non-profit organizations that further the humanities in the state, and we conduct our own programs that support the humanities across Iowa. Each year we serve over 250,000 Iowans with programming and projects like our Speakers Bureau. We have a strong commitment to sharing and supporting the humanities with all Iowans, and to bringing the humanities to life.

Major Grants

A key component of a Humanities Iowa grant is the active participation of humanities scholars who encourage dialogue, critical thinking and analysis in a public setting. A humanities scholar has particular training or experience qualifying him or her as a professional in one or more of the disciplines of the humanities. One qualification is an advanced degree (M.A. or Ph.D.) in a humanities field of study. However, individuals without an advanced degree may qualify as humanities scholars because of their methods of research, inquiry and teaching. Humanities Iowa recognizes that scholarship and learning occur outside of traditional academic pursuits. Humanities Iowa also values and respects training and preparation found in diverse cultural traditions.

Projects that involve scholars in a public capacity include activities such as lectures, readings and discussion, films and discussion, public conferences and symposia, exhibitions, or theater or concert program notes and discussions. A Humanities Iowa grant also may be used to retain the services of a humanities scholar for a short period of time to improve the quality of an organization’s humanities offerings. Consultation projects include humanists-in-residence working with communities, teachers and students. They also include developing exhibitions, creating educational programs and interpreting collections. Humanities scholars should be included in the planning of the proposal as well as the execution of funded projects.

What We Fund

Humanities Iowa (HI) grants fund humanities programming that engages communities, non profit organizations, and humanities scholars in the crucial stories that have shaped and are shaping our state of Iowa and the nation.

These stories are to be shared in public settings and may include, but are not limited to,

• symposia,
• community storytelling events,
• a cultural discussion series,
• exhibitions,
• post-performance/film conversations, and,
• rural archives preservation for public access.

In our grant selection process, we are especially interested in funding projects that make new stories heard, that support rural communities, that bring out elements of Iowa that are distinctive to our state, and that engage new groups in receiving HI funding for the first time.

Our Mission...

The mission of The Needmor Fund for Social Justice is to work with others to bring about social justice. We support groups of people who come together to organize their community, build power, and challenge the social, economic, or political conditions that bar their access to participation in a democratic society.

Our Vision...

Our work is informed by a vision of democracy and justice:

• We strive to engage those whose participation in our democratic society has been systemically denied, because we believe our nation will operate most equitably when all of its people are actively involved in crafting the vision, values, and policies that affect their lives. This includes, but is not limited to, those who have traditionally been excluded — i.e., low- and moderate-income communities, BIPOC communities, the disabled, immigrants, and members of the LGBTQ community.
• We seek a just society in which all persons are treated with dignity and assured their fundamental rights, including equal access to the basic necessities of life: food, shelter, safety, healthcare, education, livable wages, and a clean environment.
• We work to build a nation in which all people are free to exercise their rights regardless of race, ethnic origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, economic status, or faith.
• We believe in the power of community and its ability to collectively determine the best strategies for improving the lives of its members.

Our Values...

Our work together is guided by the following beliefs:

• Every individual has inherent worth and has the right to have his or her voice heard.
• Community organizing is one of the most effective means to engage and lift the voices of those whose participation in our democratic society has been systematically denied.
• Equality, equity, and inclusion of the diverse voices of our society are central to responsible deliberation and decision-making, within both our institutions and society-at-large.

Core Grants

The Needmor Fund for Social Justice’s Core Grants Program provides general operating support to groups engaged in the work of community organizing. Grantees funded through this program are eligible to receive funding for up to three years, after which an organization may not apply for at least two years.

Needmor’s Core Grants Program will focus on supporting community organizing in the Midwest — specifically an eight state region that includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

Basic Criteria

While Needmor embraces the opportunity to fund emerging organizations, our commitment remains to funding strong, effective community organizing. We thus seek to support groups that:

• Organize primarily low- and moderate-income people, as evidenced by demographic/ statistical data indicating social and economic distress.
• Have a multi-issue agenda that reflects an intersectional approach to addressing issues associated with race, economic justice and equality.
• Demonstrate a commitment to long-term base building and effectively link issue work to building organizational power.
• Are democratically run and consist of a dues-paying membership base, with deep member engagement and a process for both developing and regenerating a strong cadre of leaders over time.
• Have developed a power analysis and a clearly defined plan for challenging/altering the dynamics of power within their communities.
• Engage in direct action and have demonstrated the ability to win concrete victories of increasingly larger scale.
• Have a vision to continually build and aggregate power, enabling them to take on bigger policy issues and expand its base of allies to increase its impact over time.
• Are well managed, engage in strategic planning, and have a sound budget and diversified fundraising plan.

Additional Screens

In addition to meeting the above basic criteria, Needmor is interested in funding groups that:

• Organize across lines of race, class, and gender; and, promote the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Are linked to and leverage the power of faith, labor, and community into powerful organizations.
• Demonstrate a willingness to work collaboratively for the purpose of building collective power to achieve systematic change at the regional, state, and national level. 
• Are connected to larger organizing networks that are working to implement new, broad, and creative public policies that address systemic issues facing low- and moderate-income communities.
• Integrate voter engagement strategies and the expansion of democracy into the building of powerful community organizations.
• Demonstrate the ability to develop an agenda that frames issues of relevance to both urban and rural constituencies.
• Recognize and address the impact of global corporatization as it relates to issues of economic and environmental justice.
• Have potential for attracting the interest and support of other funders.

Rural Child Care Planning Grant Program (IA)

The Rural Child Care Planning program seeks to support the use of data and analysis by rural communities to determine the specific needs and solutions for child care in their area.

Child care is a challenge across rural communities in Iowa and across the nation. However, the solutions are often more complicated than the construction of a new facility. Many factors need to be carefully analyzed to determine the feasibility for development of a child care center, expansion of an existing one or support for in-home providers. Through greater understanding of their geographic market, demographics, competition, financials, and other factors, communities can be armed with the information needed to take proactive steps towards addressing child care challenges. Funding from the program will empower communities to assess their current child care environment and develop strategies.

Funding

Grant Recipients will be awarded $20,000.

Applicants are required to demonstrate investment in the project process by providing a minimum of $10,000 cash match. The cash match must be secured, dedicated to eligible expenses, a legitimate part of the project and be expended within the eligible funding period. Cash match constitutes actual cash contributed to direct project expenses by the applicant or other funding sources. The minimum $10,000 match requirement may be raised through a combination of public and private sources but may not include in-kind donations of goods or services, unsecured funding or loans.

CHS Inc

CHS (fomerly is a leading global agribusiness owned by farmers, ranchers and cooperatives across the United States. Diversified in energy, agronomy, grains and foods, CHS is committed to creating connections to empower agriculture, helping its farmer-owners, customers and other stakeholders grow their businesses through its domestic and global operations. CHS supplies energy, crop nutrients, seed, crop protection products, grain marketing services, production and agricultural services, animal nutrition products, foods and food ingredients, and risk management services. The company operates petroleum refineries and pipelines and manufactures, markets and distributes Cenex® brand refined fuels, lubricants, propane and renewable energy products. 

CHS invests in programs that strengthen hometown communities and develop future generations of ag leaders through CHS community giving and the CHS Foundation. These initiatives support CHS sustainability efforts and long-term focus on people and rural communities

CHS community giving serves cooperative communities through support of cooperative matching grants, Twin Cities projects, volunteerism and industry support.

CHS Foundation

The CHS Foundation builds ag career pathways and educates rural youth through support of ag safety.

Teacher Grants

The CHS Foundation will award up to $50,000 to help teachers to implement a project at their school that will engage students in experiential agricultural education. We know teachers have big ideas we want to help bring those to life for students in rural communities.

Women's Development Grants Program

We are committed to investing in efforts that increase education and economic opportunities for citizens in our operating communities. In particular, we want to ensure that women have suitable, relevant, functional opportunities to be full participants in economic development and attain greater levels of prosperity. When women gain skills, they gain confidence, increase their productivity, mentor others, raise their income levels and reinvest in their children’s education, their family’s health, and economic activities at the community level.  

The Freeport-McMoRan Women’s Development Grants support organizations providing women and girls with opportunities to:

• Advance attainment, matriculation or graduation via college/career readiness and/or leadership/character development
• Create or expand businesses via small business development training and access to capital programs
• Increase financial capability and employment via education or workforce skills training

About the Benton County Community Foundation

The Benton 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 Benton County. The Foundation’s mission is to strengthen Benton County by encouraging charitable giving to create legacies for the future. We offer world-class donor services and wise investing. Our grants are designed to act as a catalyst for community transformation and growth, enriching the lives of area citizens.

What We Fund

The Benton County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Benton 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

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. 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. 

Kossuth County Grants

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

What We Support

The Kossuth County Community Foundation provides grants to improve life in Kossuth 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 extent to which the proposal addresses a community need, demonstrates broad-based community support, and provides benefits to the community-at-large.
• The level of support or leveraged funding from other sources.
• Maximization of community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and the elimination of redundant services, programs, or projects.
• The capacity of the applicant’s organization and staff to achieve the desired result and/or projects that focus on the growth of the organization.
• The sustainability of the proposed project.

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

Rural YMCA Grant Program (IA)

The Rural YMCA Grant Program provides a total of $250,000 in awards to support facility infrastructure improvements at YMCA locations in rural Iowa communities. Funding for the program is made possible by an annual appropriation from the Iowa Legislature to the Iowa Economic Development Authority.

Eligible Projects

Infrastructure projects must involve the renovation or maintenance of existing YMCA facilities — as defined by the Iowa Code 8.57 — that are located in the applicant city for the purpose of fulfilling a social need related to youth development, healthy living or social responsibility. All projects and incurred expenses must begin and end within the funding period.

Such activities could include:  

• Construction
• Land acquisition
• Major renovation or routine, recurring maintenance of building or appurtenant structure
• Site development 

Funding

Grant requests must be between $10,000 and $100,000, and applicants are required to provide a cash match that is a minimum of 50% of the total grant amount requested.

The cash match must be secured, dedicated to eligible facility infrastructure expenses, a legitimate part of the proposed facility infrastructure project and expended within the eligible funding period. The match requirement may be raised through a combination of public and private sources but may not include in-kind donations of goods or services, unsecured funding, loans or other state of Iowa funding.