Best Grants for Preschools in Iowa

Promoting Appanoose & Centerville Together (PACT) Iowa

Every thriving community has a strong foundation, and for Centerville and Appanoose County, that foundation got a huge boost in January 2021 with the formation of PACT. We’re proud to be the result of a thoughtful merger between three cornerstones of our community: the Centerville Chamber of Commerce, the Appanoose Economic Development Corporation, and Main Street Centerville. This powerful combination means we now have a streamlined, focused approach to uplift our unique Southern Iowa community, nestled invitingly near the tranquil waters of Lake Rathbun. 

Our core purpose is clear: to be a proactive, volunteer-driven organization. We work tirelessly to help businesses stay, grow, and settle here, creating new jobs across Appanoose County and revitalizing downtown Centerville. We’re also committed to preserving our local treasures and fostering an environment where every business can flourish.

Meet in Appanoose Grant

The purpose of the Meet in Appanoose Grant is to encourage businesses & organizations to host group meetings, conferences, trade shows or exhibitions in Appanoose County. This grant is designed to introduce and incentive groups to discover everything Appanoose County has to offer by offering funding to offset eligible event costs. This is a competitive application and not all projects will be funded. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis beginning August 1, 2026 and once all funds are awarded, applications will no longer be accepted.

The RNomics Molecular Standards initiative, supported by the NIH Common Fund, aims to enhance research on RNA molecules by developing standardized references. This program will facilitate the creation, testing, and distribution of RNA molecular reference standards, which are crucial for ensuring consistency and reliability in RNA research. By providing guidance on best practices and planning for long-term availability, RNomics will help advance technologies that analyze RNA sequences and functions, ultimately improving health and disease understanding.

The NIH Common Fund is launching the RNomics program to advance RNA research through innovative technologies. This initiative focuses on developing tools for comprehensive analysis of RNA molecules, addressing current methodological limitations. Key priorities include sequencing RNA, detecting modifications, and studying RNA function across various biological contexts. The program encourages high-risk, early-stage projects that demonstrate potential for significant impact. Successful Phase 1 projects may transition to Phase 2, aimed at delivering validated resources for the research community.

Okoboji Foundation

The Okoboji Foundation was started in 1988, by a group of dedicated lovers of The Lakes Region who wished to improve the quality of life of those who call this area home.

Originally named the University of Okoboji Foundation, Berkley Bedell served as the first Board Chairman.  In 2006, the foundation changed its name to the Okoboji Foundation to establish the organization as a Community Foundation. Over $5.24 million has been granted to more than 80 different nonprofit agencies located around The Lakes since its inception and preserving the stories that make Iowa Great Lakes a place of local legends.

Today, the Okoboji Foundation is the center point of giving for vital capital projects. Current funding priorities focus on arts & culture, economic development, lake quality & environment, and outdoor experiences & recreation. It’s through the generosity of donors that the Okoboji Foundation continues to make a positive, lasting impact in the Lakes community.

Areas of Focus

We fund projects in the Iowa Great Lakes Region that align with one or more of the following:

• Arts & Culture – Enriching community life and sustaining nostalgia and legacy for residents and visitors.
• Outdoor Recreation – Expanding opportunities for active, healthy lifestyles.
• Lake Quality & Environment – Protecting and sustaining our lakes and natural resources

What We Fund

We fund VITAL CAPITAL PROJECTS, such as buildings, equipment, or physical property that will be available for many years of use in our Lakes communities. We want to help develop communities where people want to live, work, visit, and play

Projects should be visible, available to a large portion of the public, and have a long lasting impact in the Iowa Great Lakes region.

Professional signage must be included on structures or property funded by Foundation grants. The Okoboji Foundation will provide official logos and style guidelines for signage.

Funding Levels

There are two categories of funding: Leadership Grants and Community Needs Grants.

Leadership Grants

Grant requests of $25,000 or more will be reviewed by the Okoboji Foundation grants committee. The committee may request an in person follow-up presentation by the nonprofit. Projects should be completed and request reimbursement with receipts totaling amount of grant award within three years of the award notification.

Okoboji Foundation

The Okoboji Foundation was started in 1988, by a group of dedicated lovers of The Lakes Region who wished to improve the quality of life of those who call this area home.

Originally named the University of Okoboji Foundation, Berkley Bedell served as the first Board Chairman.  In 2006, the foundation changed its name to the Okoboji Foundation to establish the organization as a Community Foundation. Over $5.24 million has been granted to more than 80 different nonprofit agencies located around The Lakes since its inception and preserving the stories that make Iowa Great Lakes a place of local legends.

Today, the Okoboji Foundation is the center point of giving for vital capital projects. Current funding priorities focus on arts & culture, economic development, lake quality & environment, and outdoor experiences & recreation. It’s through the generosity of donors that the Okoboji Foundation continues to make a positive, lasting impact in the Lakes community.

Areas of Focus

We fund projects in the Iowa Great Lakes Region that align with one or more of the following:

• Arts & Culture – Enriching community life and sustaining nostalgia and legacy for residents and visitors.
• Outdoor Recreation – Expanding opportunities for active, healthy lifestyles.
• Lake Quality & Environment – Protecting and sustaining our lakes and natural resources

What We Fund

We fund VITAL CAPITAL PROJECTS, such as buildings, equipment, or physical property that will be available for many years of use in our Lakes communities. We want to help develop communities where people want to live, work, visit, and play

Projects should be visible, available to a large portion of the public, and have a long lasting impact in the Iowa Great Lakes region.

Professional signage must be included on structures or property funded by Foundation grants. The Okoboji Foundation will provide official logos and style guidelines for signage.

Funding Levels

There are two categories of funding: Leadership Grants and Community Needs Grants.

Community Needs Grants

Grant requests under $25,000 will be considered by the Youth In Philanthropy student led committee. Any unfunded grants in this category will then be reviewed by the Okoboji Foundation grant committee. Projects should be completed and request reimbursement with receipts totaling amount of grant award within one year of the award notification.

What is the Dickinson County Endowment Fund?

The Dickinson County Endowment Fund is a non-profit, tax exempt foundation established in 2005 to support community betterment projects in Dickinson County, Iowa. The Fund encourages philanthropic giving and provides financial support for projects and programs that improve the quality of life and help promote a healthy economy of our county.

Grant Info

Funds awarded by the DCEF must be used for civic, educational, public, charitable, patriotic or religious projects.

Applications must include information on community need/benefit, project budget, applicant group’s ability to complete the project and any sources identified for partnerships or matching funds.

Community Foundation of Osceola County

The Community Foundation of Osceola County is committed to improving the quality of life throughout Osceola County by investing in area nonprofits through our grant programs and by providing individuals, families and area businesses who love our communities with a way to give back.

The CFOC is affiliated with the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, a nonprofit, providing financial management, strategic development and educational services to communities, organizations and donors throughout Osceola County.

High Impact Grant

• Grants are available in the following areas: arts and culture, community and economic well-being, environment, health, human services, recreation, and technology.
• Only one high impact grant will be awarded annually to a project with a large positive community impact.
• Grantees have 2 years to complete the project. During this period the grantee is prohibited from applying for additional Community Foundation grant funding.
• Once the project has been completed the organization is eligible for further Community Foundation funding through community grants or high impact grants.
• Applicants are highly encouraged to meet with Osceola County Economic Development Director before applying to ensure applications are filled out correctly.
• The CFOC board looks for projects that address significant community issues; present innovative, creative, and practical proposals which build on community strengths; develop the leadership potential of the community; involve people served in the planning and implementation of the program; provide a plan for sustainability beyond the funding period; capital projects that impact a significant number of Osceola County residents

Howard Hughes Medical Institute

More than 70 years ago, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) was founded with a mission to advance basic biomedical research and science education. Today, we invest in exceptional scientists at all career stages, catalyzing breakthroughs, new technologies, and the next generation of transformative clinical therapies. Our pathbreaking science takes place at more than 60 host institutions across the US, and at our Janelia Research Campus.

Cech Fellows Program

The Cech Fellows Program is a paid, nine-week summer research experience for rising college juniors and seniors designed to empower the next generation of scientific leaders through mentorship, hands-on research, and community. 

The Cech Fellows Program gives undergraduate students in the life sciences the opportunity to conduct hands-on research with leading scientists at HHMI laboratories across the US, from universities and research institutions to HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus outside of Washington, DC. Students are matched with HHMI scientists conducting fundamental research that advances our understanding of biology and health. 

This immersive program gives students the chance to contribute to real scientific discovery, receive professional mentorship, explore potential careers in biological and biomedical research, and connect with a community of like-minded peers.  

Gain Hands-On Experience in Research & Lab Work

The HHMI Cech Fellows Program is a 9-week, full-time, immersive research experience running from June 14, 2027 to August 12, 2027. Fellows: 

• conduct cutting-edge basic research in an HHMI lab for their own educational benefit  
• participate in professional development workshops   
• engage with a vibrant scientific community  
• build essential skills for future success in a scientific career   

Funding & Logistics 

As a Cech Fellow, students:  

• receive a $15,000 stipend if placed in an HHMI lab at a host institution, intended to cover travel, housing, meals, and incidentals. (Students are responsible for arranging their own housing.) 
• receive a $12,000 stipend if placed at HHMI’s Janelia Research Campus. (Students placed at Janelia have access to free, on-campus housing.)
• participate in an end-of-summer symposium at the Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, VA, from August 10–12, 2027, at which they present their research and meet other Cech Fellows from across the country. Food, lodging, and travel to and from the symposium are provided by HHMI. 
• are matched with a local contact from their host lab who will provide suggestions for local housing options. Students are expected to travel to arrive at their host institutions by June 14, 2027.  

The Gilbert M and Martha H Hitchcock FoundationThe Gilbert M and Martha H Hitchcock Foundation is one of the oldest private, continuously run family foundations in Omaha, Nebraska, with more than 80 years serving the greater metro Omaha and Council Bluffs area with philanthropic support. From the start, the foundation matched the Hitchcocks' passions: supporting local journalism and the hard-working youth who delivered it, supporting religious institutions, promoting Omaha's growth, and providing care to the sick and elderly. In time, its focus has expanded to include private and higher education, the arts, conservation and animal welfare, preserving history, and social service organizations serving the greater Omaha and Council Bluffs area.

Puget Sound Energy (PSE)’s Solar Grants are funding to increase equitable access to the benefits of solar. In 2026, PSE is offering $1,000,000 in competitive funding awards to community-based organizations, government agencies and Tribal entities in PSE’s electric service area to install solar at their property.What makes a solar project eligible?

• Proposed projects must receive sufficient sunlight, as determined by a solar installer. The total solar resource fraction (TSRF) must be at least a 75% average of all points in the proposed solar array.
• Property that solar arrays are installed on may be owned or leased. If the property is leased, the applicant must demonstrate project support from the property owner and affirm that they will be in that space for at least five years.
• Projects must be less than or equal to 100 kW AC in size and will apply for interconnection and Net Metering.
• Grantees must maintain insurance coverage of the solar system for a minimum of five years, and PSE recommends maintaining insurance for the life of the system.
• Grantees must retain Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) for the life of the project or sell them to PSE. RECs are a market-based instrument that represent the non-power, “green” attributes of renewable electricity generation. Grantees comply simply by not selling these attributes to any entity other than PSE.
• Solar is a long term investment. The roof or structure this array is being placed on should be in good condition and should not need to be replaced for at least 20 years.

About Samba RecoverySamba Recovery is dedicated to empowering individuals recovering from alcoholism and drug addiction by restoring confidence and fostering resilience. Through a foundation of compassion, support, and holistic care, we guide individuals toward renewed health and wellness, meaningful relationships, and the discovery of their inner strengths—assisting them to achieve their fullest potential.Hope for Addiction ScholarshipSamba Recovery’s Hope for Addiction Scholarship is an annual $1,000 award dedicated to encouraging more young people to join the fight against addiction by pursuing degrees that directly support individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

We welcome applications from all eligible students, with special encouragement for those who are in recovery themselves or who have been impacted by addiction within their families.Application requirements:

• Proof of college enrollment or acceptance
• Pursuing a degree with the goal of working with individuals and/or families impacted by addiction
• Completed application form
• An original 500 to 1000 word essay on how you are planning to use your degree to help individuals and families struggling with addiction, and why helping those affected by substance use disorder is important to you

We are Revolutionaries

Who We Are

We are Revolutionaries -passionate in our singular pursuit of discovering, developing and delivering innovative targeted therapies for patients living with RAS-addicted cancer. At Revolution Medicines, we believe in challenging the status quo to find new therapeutic approaches to some of the toughest cancers. With our first wave of investigational RAS(ON) inhibitors, we are pioneering a new way of targeting the RAS cancer drivers of disease, and we have the potential to change the treatment paradigm in these cancers where there is a significant unmet medical need.

Our mission is to revolutionize treatment for patients with RAS-addicted cancers through the discovery, development and delivery of innovative, targeted medicines.

Research, Grants & Support

At Revolution Medicines, we understand the importance of extending our support of scientific advancement beyond the research we conduct and the medicines we provide.

We support activities that make meaningful information and resources available to the broader medical and scientific communities to help advance science, increase understanding of certain diseases, and enhance patient care.

Charitable Donations

Funding for programs that deliver disease awareness, treatment education, or other healthcare information intended to improve patient understanding and empowerment.

Joseph G Markoly Foundation Inc

When Joseph Markoly originally established the foundation more than thirty years ago, its focus was on Alzheimer’s and heart disease support, funded through a number of the larger national disease-related organizations. Over time the focus has shifted to helping small to mid-size organizations in our local communities which support children and seniors in a variety of effective ways. 

Markoly Foundation was established in honor of Joseph G. Markoly, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who wanted to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Joseph’s family was affected directly by both Alzheimer’s and heart disease having lost a family member to each condition. For that reason, the foundation dedicates a majority of their resources to providing grants to organizations that focus on the treatment of each of these diseases. In addition, Markoly Foundation supports a variety of programs dedicated to helping children and seniors by providing services, supplies, programs and research in areas impacting these demographics.

Joseph G. Markoly Foundation Grant Support for Elder Organizations

The Markoly Foundation takes pride in supporting local organizations that provide services for elders in our community. Seniors face a number of challenges that come with aging, especially when they don’t have loved ones who are able to assist them with their needs. We provide grants for a variety of senior-related programs from Caregiver Education and Support to Emergency Meal Delivery and Transportation Services.

We are dedicated to providing funding for local nonprofit programs that improve the quality of life for all, but particularly for the children and elders in our community.

Joseph G Markoly Foundation Inc

When Joseph Markoly originally established the foundation more than thirty years ago, its focus was on Alzheimer’s and heart disease support, funded through a number of the larger national disease-related organizations. Over time the focus has shifted to helping small to mid-size organizations in our local communities which support children and seniors in a variety of effective ways. 

Markoly Foundation was established in honor of Joseph G. Markoly, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who wanted to make a positive impact in people’s lives. Joseph’s family was affected directly by both Alzheimer’s and heart disease having lost a family member to each condition. For that reason, the foundation dedicates a majority of their resources to providing grants to organizations that focus on the treatment of each of these diseases. In addition, Markoly Foundation supports a variety of programs dedicated to helping children and seniors by providing services, supplies, programs and research in areas impacting these demographics.

Joseph G. Markoly Foundation Grant Support for Children’s Organizations

Children are the future of this world and the Markoly Foundation is proud to fund local programs dedicated to improving the lives of children and their families. From providing vision services for school kids to classes on parenting, we are proud to do our part to help fund critical community programs for families.

We are dedicated to providing funding for local nonprofit programs that improve the quality of life for all, but particularly for the children and elders in our community.

Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines

The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines improves quality of life for all by promoting charitable giving, connecting donors with causes they care about and providing leadership on important community issues…we’re simply better together. 

Madrid Community Endowment Fund

Mission of the Madrid Community Endowment Fund:

The Madrid Community Endowment Fund is a charitable foundation created by and for local citizens to improve the quality of life right here in our communities. We are here to help donors make a positive, local impact by offering a variety of giving tools to help people achieve their charitable giving goals and do good work in our community that lasts forever.

The Madrid Community Endowment Fund is committed to improving the quality of life throughout Madrid by investing in area nonprofits through our grant programs and by providing individuals, families and area businesses who love our community with a way to give back.

Madrid Community Endowment Fund Grants

Grants are available to 501(c)3 organizations and government entities serving the Madrid community. Grant selections are made in an effort to create a better quality of life for people in Madrid. The local governing committee reviews the applications from charitable organizations serving their community. 

The NSF State and Regional AI Infrastructure Hubs program seeks to enhance access to computational resources essential for AI-driven scientific exploration. By forming flexible consortia among government, academia, and industry, these hubs aim to foster innovation and workforce development in AI. The initiative aligns with national R&D priorities, emphasizing the critical role of AI in advancing scientific discovery and expanding infrastructure to support this mission across various disciplines.

The National Foundation for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers funding to support administrative expenses that bolster CDC's mission. This initiative enhances partnerships to address health threats both domestically and globally. Projects funded through this grant align with CDC's strategic goals, focusing on measurable outcomes such as program support and participation from various CDC Centers and Offices. Importantly, this grant only supports non-research activities.

The Domestic Violence Prevention grant aims to enhance access to forensic healthcare services for American Indian and Alaska Native victims of domestic violence and related issues. By fostering multidisciplinary partnerships, this initiative promotes trauma-informed care and improves victim support across IHS Areas. The focus is on developing comprehensive, culturally sensitive services that ensure timely interventions and coordinated responses to vulnerable populations, thereby enhancing overall victim well-being and safety.

The Dorothy Stewart Memorial Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to foster interest in public and environmental affairs. It provides financial support to graduates of Brown County High School or G.E.D. recipients who demonstrate exceptional citizenship and community involvement. Eligible candidates must pursue a degree in relevant fields, ensuring that the scholarship contributes to the development of future leaders in these critical areas.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

John & Jackie Watkins Scholarship

This scholarship recognizes the long history of Marion County as an agricultural area and the importance of farming in our community. John and Jackie Watkins both grew up in Delaware County and attended Radnor schools. They knew the value of education and its lifelong benefits.

Following Jackie’s passing in 1998, the family established the John & Jackie Watkins Scholarship Fund in her memory to assist the youth of Marion County to attend college—specifically to study agriculture. The Watkins Fund makes awards to graduating seniors from any high school in Marion County who are pursuing an education in agriculture, with special consideration given to those who have participated in FFA.

The Harry D. Poling Scholarship, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, supports current and former 4-H members pursuing higher education or vocational training. Established to assist students from Brown County, this scholarship prioritizes those seeking CDL or vocational training, emphasizing financial need. Since 1993, the Foundation has focused on educational initiatives, providing numerous scholarships to local graduates and working closely with The Lilly Endowment Inc. for enhanced educational opportunities.

The Faye Lynn Deckard Memorial Scholarship Fund, managed by the Brown County Community Foundation, aims to provide scholarships for students accepted into accredited two- or four-year institutions. This fund supports residents of Brown County pursuing degrees in early childhood education, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their educational aspirations. Since its inception, the foundation has been dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for local students, reinforcing its commitment to community development and academic achievement.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Marion Women’s Business Council Scholarship

The Marion Women’s Business Council created this scholarship fund in 2017 from member contributions to support future women in business. 

The Women’s Business Council Scholarship Fund annually awards a scholarship to a female student from a Marion County high school pursuing studies in business, finance, economics, marketing, management, advertising, accounting, human resources, or entrepreneurship.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Mary Ellen Withrow Scholarship

Marion’s “favorite daughter,” Mary Ellen Withrow, the 40th Treasurer of the United States, created a scholarship fund in 2016 for female students from any Marion County high school, with special consideration for those pursuing the fields of finance or political science. 

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship

The Nancy O. Whitaker Memorial Scholarship is available to students pursing an education in the field of speech and hearing, including research, treatment, education, and cures for people who suffer from speech and hearing impairments and diseases.

The Whitaker Scholarship is open to high school seniors who have lived in Marion for at least the last two years. 

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship

The Norman Withrow Golf Scholarship Fund supports students from any Marion County high school who participate in varsity golf to attend the college or university of their choice.

About Marion Community Foundation

Since 1998, area residents have been turning to Marion Community Foundation to make their philanthropic giving as effective as possible. We are a public charity serving thousands of people who share a common concern … improving the quality of life in Marion County.

Individuals, families, businesses and organizations create permanent charitable funds that help our community meet its needs and challenges. The Foundation invests and administers these funds.

Robert M. & Dorothy C. Wopat Scholarship

The largest scholarship fund at Marion Community Foundation, the Wopat Scholarship awards $100,000+ annually in support of local students.