Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in Iowa

The Ottumwa Regional Legacy Foundation offers Direct Response Good Practice Grants up to $5,000 for nonprofits to enhance their management and organizational capacity. These grants support various activities including strategic planning, financial management, communications, and board development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and serve Wapello County, demonstrating full board support for participation. Grants exclude for-profit entities, individuals, and those seeking funding for political purposes or debt reduction.

Rick Robinson Hotstart Scholarship

Applicants must be children or grandchildren of full-time Hotstart employees who have a minimum of two years employment with Hotstart as of the application deadline date. 

Previous recipients are eligible to re-apply, but an individual may receive an award no more than four times. 

The QCCF Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants aim to enhance nonprofit organizations by strengthening their infrastructure and operational capabilities. These grants support specific capacity-building projects, which may include areas such as collaboration, financial management, and governance. By investing in these projects, the Quad Cities Community Foundation seeks to empower nonprofits to deliver their missions effectively and sustainably, ensuring their success both now and in the future.

The Doyle Foundation, Inc. offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S., supporting a variety of causes. Founded by Frank and Gertrude R. Doyle, the foundation initially focused on scholarships for local students but has since expanded its reach to nonprofit grants. With no minimum GPA or income cap for applicants, the foundation aims to empower diverse communities by funding educational pursuits and enhancing quality of life. Its mission reflects the Doyles' legacy of opportunity and community service.

The Roothbert Fund Scholarship, established by Albert and Toni Roothbert, provides financial assistance to individuals pursuing education in the U.S., emphasizing candidates motivated by spiritual values. Since its inception in 1958, the fund has supported over 1,350 fellows, fostering a community with annual retreats and online connections. Open to all regardless of background, the scholarship prioritizes graduate students and those with a year of college completed, ensuring a lasting impact on the lives of young idealists.

The AAUW International Fellowships support women pursuing graduate or postdoctoral studies in the U.S. who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Since 1917, these fellowships have provided financial assistance, with awards of $20,000 for Master’s, $25,000 for Doctoral, and $50,000 for Postdoctoral studies. Eligible applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to women's advancement. The program emphasizes full-time study and requires proficiency in English, ensuring a diverse and dedicated cohort of scholars.

Wynn Resorts offers a structured donation and in-kind request process for non-profit organizations. Applications must be submitted at least 12 weeks ahead of the event, with specific documentation required for organizations in Nevada and Massachusetts. While requests from outside these areas may be considered, priority is given to local community events. Notably, certain types of requests, including those for advertising and religious purposes, are ineligible. This ensures that contributions align with the company's community initiatives.

The Strategic Planning Grant Program by Attainable Edge LLC aims to provide accessible and affordable strategic planning resources to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations. Awardees will receive a one-year subscription to innovative software and consulting services, enabling them to align their teams and enhance their strategic goals. This initiative focuses on empowering organizations to effectively engage with their communities and achieve significant positive change through structured planning and collaboration.

The Founders’ Award by SAX LLP honors nonprofit organizations demonstrating perseverance in their mission. With a rich history since 1956, SAX aims to empower nonprofits through a $20,000 unrestricted gift for the first place, alongside additional support for second and third places. Eligible applicants must hold a 501(c)(3) tax exemption and attend the awards ceremony if selected among the Top 75. This initiative reflects SAX's commitment to advancing impactful nonprofits in their communities.

The Roger Cox Scholarship, funded by the Foundation for Rural Service, offers a $1,000 scholarship to a high school senior residing in the Atlantic Telephone Membership Company service area in North Carolina, along with two $500 scholarships for rural residents of North and South Carolina. The scholarship aims to support students' educational journeys while encouraging them to return to rural communities post-graduation. Recipients are selected through a thorough review process.

The TMS Scholarship, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, awards $1,500 annually to two deserving students from Ardmore Telephone or West Kentucky and Tennessee Telecommunications Cooperative. To qualify, applicants must be graduating high school seniors, U.S. citizens, sponsored by a member of the NTCA, and show interest in returning to rural communities post-graduation. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and support the development of rural America.

The AmericanTrucks’ Positive Payload Grant Program provides a $250 donation to non-profit charities that utilize Ford, Chevy, GMC, or Dodge trucks in their operations. This initiative aims to support organizations that rely on pickup trucks to enhance their community services. Eligible charities can apply for a grant on an ongoing basis, making it a great opportunity for those making a significant impact with their vehicles. Apply now to help your charity receive vital funding!

The Schwarzman Scholars program offers a fully-funded, one-year master's degree at Tsinghua University in Beijing, fostering global leadership through academic excellence and cultural exchange. It seeks diverse candidates with strong leadership skills, integrity, and intellectual ability. Scholars receive comprehensive support, including tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses. This initiative aims to cultivate future leaders who can bridge cultural divides and understand the complexities of global affairs, enriching their fields and communities.

The Dyersville Area Community Foundation provides grants to nonprofits in Dyersville and nearby communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and municipalities. Grant funds must be utilized within 12 months and may cover monetary or in-kind donations, including volunteer labor. Recipients are required to submit a video report or an outcomes report detailing their projects and the impact on the community. The foundation does not fund office supplies or projects started prior to approval.

The Herbert and Isabel Bitz Memorial Scholarship, established by Mr. Don Bitz, offers a $5,000 award annually to a graduating high school senior dedicated to rural America. Sponsored by a member of NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, applicants must be U.S. citizens with intentions of returning to a rural community after graduation. This scholarship aims to support students who aspire to contribute to the quality of life in rural areas.

The Sarah Tyree Good Neighbor Scholarship, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, honors the legacy of Sarah Tyree, a champion for rural broadband. This scholarship is awarded to high school seniors who exemplify humanitarianism and community spirit. Eligible students must be U.S. citizens with a commitment to returning to rural areas post-graduation. The award supports educational endeavors, ensuring that future leaders have the resources they need to thrive.

The Everett Kneece Scholarship, offered by the Foundation for Rural Service, provides a $7,000 award annually to a graduating high school senior who shows commitment to returning to a rural community. To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens sponsored by an NTCA member and express interest in rural community service. This scholarship honors Everett Kneece's legacy of philanthropy and dedication to enhancing rural life through education.

Story County Community Foundation

The Story County Community Foundation does more than simply distributing grants that advance charitable activities. It also identifies current and emerging issues, stimulates resources to address those needs and helps Story County prepare for the future.

The Story County Community Foundation has two primary functions:

• To receive, manage and distribute funds made available by the Iowa County Endowment Fund legislation for the benefit of Story County communities and organizations.
• To provide a means for donors to make gifts that address the challenges and issues confronting Story County communities and organizations now and in the future.

Currently, the foundation holds more than 180 different funds established by individuals, families, and nonprofit agencies to benefit Story County, Iowa. Since its founding in 2005, the foundation has served the needs of this area and the wishes of our donors through personalized service, financial stewardship, local expertise, and community leadership.

McCallsburg, Iowa Legacy Grant

The City of McCallsburg will be the Fiscal Sponsor for this grant. Funds will be directed to the City of McCallsburg and the City will distribute the funds to the grant recipient.

Grant Information

• Grants funding may be awarded up to, but not exceed, the McCallsburg Legacy Fund spendable balance. Please contact the Story County Community Foundation for up-to-date funding available.
• The McCallsburg City Council will consider all applications during next regular City Council meeting.
• Grant funding must be used within a year of the award.
• A Final Report is required upon completion of the project.

The FRS Scholarships, provided by the Foundation for Rural Service, support high school seniors from rural areas in their pursuit of higher education. Sponsored by NTCA members, these one-time scholarships aim to enhance educational opportunities and encourage graduates to return to their communities. With a mission to improve rural life through educational initiatives, this program plays a vital role in fostering the next generation of leaders in rural America.

The Thomas J. Henry Sponsorship Requests program emphasizes community support and global outreach. With a commitment to enhancing lives, Mr. Henry has been a pivotal figure in South Texas, ensuring that his legal success translates into meaningful contributions. The program invites various organizations to apply for sponsorship, aligning with Mr. Henry’s vision of fostering closer connections through philanthropic efforts. This initiative aims to empower communities and promote collaborative growth on both local and international levels.

The Competitive Donor-Advised Funds grant, offered by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in Linn County, Iowa. This grant supports nonprofit organizations with diverse funding needs, including programmatic support and capital campaigns. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and governmental entities. Grants can be awarded for up to $5,000 for projects within Cedar Rapids, with a standard duration of 12 months.

The American Australian Association's Graduate Education Fund provides vital financial support for American and Australian students pursuing advanced degrees in each other's countries. With scholarships up to $40,000 available for Masters, Ph.D., and Postdoctoral research in various fields, including STEM and Indigenous studies, this initiative promotes educational exchange and global collaboration. It is open to eligible Native Americans and Indigenous Australians, fostering opportunities for transformative learning and cultural connections.

The Competitive Donor-Advised Funds from GreatAmerica Financial Services Corp. aim to support local nonprofit organizations through the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and those with fiscal sponsors. Grants can cover programmatic support, capital projects, and event sponsorships, with specific restrictions on ineligible expenses such as travel and religious purposes. This initiative fosters community engagement and growth by empowering local entities.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts offers a Scholarship Program aimed at assisting students in Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties with their college education expenses. Annually, they provide over 1,000 scholarships, totaling approximately $1.4 million. Eligible applicants include undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in accredited institutions across the U.S. Scholarships can help cover tuition, fees, and living costs, with awards up to $3,000 available for one academic year.

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation offers Rapid Response Grants to support local nonprofit organizations in Linn County, Iowa. These grants, up to $2,500 for a maximum duration of 12 months, are designed for emergency expenses and emerging opportunities that arise unexpectedly. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsorship agreement. The fund prioritizes projects addressing urgent needs or time-sensitive community issues.

The GCRCF: Linn County Grants aim to improve community development and quality of life in non-metro areas of Linn County, Iowa. Priority is given to well-designed programs that demonstrate innovative solutions to local issues. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental organizations, particularly those serving non-metro communities. Capital projects are encouraged, while fundraising events and scholarships for education are ineligible. This initiative seeks to foster community-driven initiatives that effectively utilize local resources.