Best Grants for Community Service Projects in Iowa

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Menasha Corporation Foundation, established in 1953, supports nonprofit organizations across North America, focusing on community betterment, education, environmental sustainability, and health initiatives. Grants are awarded to projects that enhance the lives of individuals and strengthen communities, particularly in areas where Menasha Corporation operates. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and prioritize non-public funding. The foundation also encourages involvement from Menasha Corporation employees in supported projects.

The Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People Grant Program supports projects led by economically disadvantaged communities to combat poverty and injustice. By promoting justice, building stronger communities, and advocating for economic equity, this program empowers individuals and groups to address the root causes of their struggles. The initiative seeks sustainable solutions that respect the environment and reject violence, fostering long-term positive change in society.

The Fayette County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is dedicated to enhancing the welfare of Fayette County residents. It supports diverse initiatives including arts, education, health, and community betterment. Grants prioritize projects that address critical needs, foster collaboration, and promise sustainable benefits. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities, with a focus on charitable projects that uplift the community. Funding is not available for operational costs or religious activities.

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development's Community Development Grant Program provides funding between $25,000 and $75,000 to support community-led initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty. Established by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, the program emphasizes the dignity of human life and encourages low-income individuals to take an active role in addressing systemic issues. Grants are awarded to organizations that align with Catholic values and demonstrate effective participation of impoverished communities in decision-making processes.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The James C. Stewart Charitable Foundation Grant supports various charitable causes primarily in Tucson, Arizona, and Southern California. Founded by James Stewart, who was dedicated to uplifting the community and promoting the arts, the foundation provides an average grant of $10,000, awarding around five grants annually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. The foundation emphasizes arts, education, environment, health, human services, and public benefit, continuing Stewart's legacy of generosity.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The LSB Foundation Grant, established by Lincoln Savings Bank, supports 501(c)(3) organizations serving Iowa communities. With a history of philanthropy spanning over a century, the foundation focuses on disaster relief and community enhancement. Organizations eligible for funding must operate in designated areas and be recognized as nonprofit entities. This grant aims to foster community growth and resilience through financial support, reflecting LSB's commitment to giving back.

The Dennis Schuman Charitable Foundation Grant supports qualified Jewish organizations and charities in the United States, focusing on arts, education, health, human services, public benefit, and religion. Established by Dennis Schuman, the foundation continues his philanthropic legacy, providing funding exclusively for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. Organizations must be exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code to qualify for funding.

Teen Trust Grants empowers high school students in Black Hawk County to engage in philanthropy by awarding grants to local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Under the guidance of a mentor, students review applications, conduct site visits, and decide on funding allocations. Eligible projects must serve the community, with requests ranging from $1,000 to $3,000. This initiative fosters leadership and social responsibility among youth while supporting vital local services.

The Black Hawk County Grants aim to enhance community welfare through funding initiatives that address local needs. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000 and support various sectors including arts, education, and health. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities. The foundation prioritizes projects that tackle racial equity, expand child care, and strengthen workforce readiness. Applications are encouraged from groups significantly impacted by recent challenges, ensuring diverse community representation and collaboration.

The Benton County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Benton County, Iowa. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, it supports a range of initiatives including arts, education, health, and community betterment. By fostering charitable giving, the Foundation aims to create lasting legacies and drive positive change, ensuring vibrant and thriving communities for current and future generations.

The Bremer County Community Foundation, part of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, aims to enhance life in Bremer County and Readlyn through grants that support community betterment, education, health, and more. Prioritizing nonprofits affected by COVID-19, the foundation encourages sustainable projects that address community needs and show broad support. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities, with a focus on creating lasting community legacies.

The Buchanan County Community Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in Buchanan County, Iowa, by providing funding for various projects that benefit the community. This includes support for arts, education, health, and community betterment initiatives. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000. The foundation prioritizes projects that involve community engagement and demonstrate sustainability without ongoing financial dependence.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Max and Helen Guernsey Charitable Foundation supports non-profit organizations in eight Iowa counties, focusing on education, family life, health, and social issues. Its mission is to enhance community vitality through partnerships that address current and future needs. The foundation prioritizes funding for programs over capital projects, aiming to benefit a broad spectrum of community needs while excluding certain organizations, such as those that are not 501(c)(3) nonprofits.

The Alliant Energy Foundation offers community grants to support local organizations within its service areas. With a focus on strategic areas such as hunger, housing, workforce readiness, environmental stewardship, and community safety, the foundation has invested over $76 million since 1998. Applications are accepted year-round, and funding is available for specific programs aimed at enhancing community well-being and innovation. Organizations may receive one grant per year, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to diverse community support.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

The Caesars Foundation supports community-focused organizations through monetary and in-kind donations, prioritizing strategic areas like social equity, climate action, and mental health. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and educational institutions operating within the U.S. Requests must align with these focus areas to enhance community impact. Organizations that discriminate or operate outside the U.S. are ineligible. By fostering collaboration, the foundation aims to uplift vulnerable populations and promote sustainable practices.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The ONEOK Foundation Community Investments Grants support organizations that enhance community well-being through arts, education, health, and environmental initiatives. With a focus on partnerships in the regions where ONEOK operates, the foundation encourages proposals that address specific community needs, particularly those promoting self-sufficiency. Grants up to $5,000 can be submitted any time, while larger requests are reviewed quarterly. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that directly benefit their local communities.

The Polaris Foundation Grant focuses on long-term community investment, emphasizing areas such as environment, community development, youth safety, and education in STEM and trades. The foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific communities where Polaris operates. Organizations are encouraged to promote responsible land use and create vibrant environments for residents, while adhering to eligibility requirements and avoiding politically affiliated or discriminatory programs.

The Allamakee County Community Foundation Grants support community-driven projects within Allamakee County, Iowa. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and municipalities, with grants available up to $20,000. The foundation prioritizes funding for community development, education, and promotions. However, grants are not available for projects outside Allamakee County, operating support, or for individuals. Projects must align with the foundation's mission to enhance the community's well-being.

The ACCF 'Emerging Needs' Mini-Grant Fund provides up to $1,000 for various community development initiatives in Allamakee County, Iowa. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations, schools, and municipalities. This funding aims to support projects related to community promotion, education, and other emerging needs. Interested parties must submit a letter of interest by the specified deadlines and are encouraged to contact the foundation to ensure their application is properly received.

Purpose:

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation accepts grant applications for a number of local corporations and family funds. Funding priorities are determined by each donor-advisor and may include program or project support, capital campaigns, and/or event sponsorships.

Competitive Donor-Advised Funds are not related to the Program Support or Organization Support grant programs. Therefore, applications to Competitive Donor-Advised Funds are not subject to the application limits for those two grant programs.  

Altorfer Inc. Grant

Priorities

• Historic preservation,
• community development