Best Grants for Preschools in Iowa

The Therapeutic Classroom Grant, funded by the Iowa Department of Education, supports public school districts in creating therapeutic classrooms for students aged 3 to 21. These classrooms cater to learners whose emotional, social, or behavioral challenges hinder their educational success. Competitive grants prioritize districts that have previously applied without success, those collaborating with mental health service providers, and those located in behavioral health service regions. Grants facilitate essential support for students to thrive in their educational environments.

The NCR-SARE Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative agricultural projects that are environmentally sound and socially responsible. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $250,000 are available for projects lasting up to 36 months, promoting collaboration among researchers, educators, and producers. This program emphasizes outreach, farmer involvement, and research on topics such as sustainable pest management, local food systems, and crop diversification, addressing the economic and environmental aspects of agriculture.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The SHSI Country School Grant Program provides funding for the preservation and enhancement of Iowa's historical one-room and two-room school buildings. With a maximum award of $5,000 and a total annual allocation of $25,000, the program aims to support projects that contribute to the cultural and economic health of communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, governmental units, and individuals, ensuring a broad outreach for preserving Iowa's educational heritage.

The Iowa STEM Teacher Externship program connects secondary STEM educators with local workplaces to enhance their teaching practices. Externs work 200-240 hours over 5-6 weeks during the summer, earning up to $5,000 and three graduate credits from the University of Northern Iowa. This initiative aims to align education with the evolving needs of Iowa's STEM industries, providing valuable real-world experience for teachers and fostering stronger community ties.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Midwest Nursing Research Society (MNRS)

The MNRS originally began to provide a place for nurses to collaborate, and collaborate they did! Over time, the founding members began to realize the benefits of having an organization dedicated specifically to nursing research. With some careful attention and a lot of hard work, we have grown into the organization it is today. We're a society where scientists, innovators, and drivers of clinical practice across the career trajectory, come together to share ideas and grow our field through innovative research.

The mission of the MNRS is to generate knowledge, translate evidence into practice, and enhance careers through collaborative engagement, implementation, and dissemination among diverse scholars. Our Vision to be the premier society that advances science, fosters leadership, and drives dissemination to improve health equity for all people.

It is an honor to recognize the important contributions of our nursing colleagues. MNRS accepts nominations for our five very prestigious awards to selected members of the Society who have made significant and notable contributions to the field of nursing through research. 

Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award

The purpose of the Harriet H. Werley New Investigator Award is to recognize the scientific contribution of a new investigator who has conducted nursing research that has the potential to enhance the science and practice of nursing.

The Strengthening Families and Communities Grant by Telligen Community Initiative focuses on enhancing the resilience of youth and families through community-based funding. This initiative is transitioning to two-year funding periods, with applications due in March and October for different states. The grant aims to address social determinants of health, providing targeted support based on extensive applicant feedback. The program emphasizes a narrowed applicant pool to ensure more consistent funding for impactful projects.

The Iowa Humanities Mini Grants provide funding up to $3,000 for organizations aiming to promote cultural understanding and community engagement. Applications are accepted year-round, with a preference for submissions at least four weeks before project start dates. Humanities scholars play a vital role in these projects, encouraging public dialogue and critical thinking. However, due to funding constraints, the availability of these grants is currently uncertain as federal funding has been terminated until further notice.

The Open Spaces Protection program, part of Iowa's Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP), allocates funds for state acquisition and development of lands and waters. With 28% of REAP funds, it supports both land acquisition and facility development, fostering private conservation efforts through cost-sharing arrangements. Additionally, a portion is dedicated to maintaining the scenic quality of designated rivers. This initiative enhances outdoor recreation opportunities and protects critical habitats across Iowa.

The Bill and Hilda Macomber and Alta Kahl Scholarship, administered by the Quad Cities Community Foundation, provides need-based financial assistance of up to $1,000 to high school seniors residing in Buffalo, Blue Grass, or Walcott, Iowa. Applicants must enroll full-time in an Iowa college or technical school, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA. This scholarship aims to support local students' pursuit of higher education.

Preschool-serving 501(c)(3) public charities in Iowa offering dental health services can seek funding for oral health capital projects, personnel, or program support. Grants from Patterson Dental Foundation help Iowa early childhood programs expand access to hygiene education, restorative or emergency dental care, and improve patient experience for underserved children, with awards up to US $35,000.

The GIG Fund: Arts and Wellness offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $15,000 to support projects that blend arts and wellness. Open to non-profit organizations, hospitals, and clinics across the Midwest, this fund aims to enhance community well-being through artistic initiatives. Eligible applicants must engage professional artists and provide activities that promote health and creativity. This funding round supports activities occurring between December 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026, emphasizing the importance of arts in fostering wellness.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

Bob's Discount Furniture Charitable Foundation supports non-profit organizations with resources rather than individual sponsorships. They require requests to be submitted on the letterhead of a qualified 501(c)(3) organization. This ensures that assistance reaches those in need through established channels. Interested parties should provide specific details regarding their requests to facilitate the application process. With a commitment to fairness, Bob's Cares aims to effectively support community initiatives across the country.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers the Habitat Management Grants Program to support projects enhancing wildlife diversity in Iowa. Grants, up to $7,500, are available for eligible organizations focused on wildlife management. Projects may include habitat reconstruction, restoration, and equipment purchases, with no match required. These grants encourage sustainable practices and stewardship among Iowans, ensuring the conservation of natural resources for future generations.

The Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) provides crucial federal funding for outdoor recreation projects in Iowa, supporting 50% cost share for development and land acquisition. It has facilitated popular projects such as skate parks, playgrounds, and multipurpose trails since its establishment in 1964. Applicants should anticipate a timeline of 12-24 months from application to the start of construction, ensuring thorough planning and execution of their recreational initiatives.

The Iowa Barn Foundation's Matching Grant - IBF Restoration Grant aims to preserve Iowa's iconic barns, which are vital to the state's heritage. With over $1 million awarded in matching grants, the foundation supports barn owners in restoring structures that are at least 50 years old or hold historical significance. Projects that enhance the rural landscape receive priority, ensuring these agricultural symbols are maintained for future generations.

The Iowa History Field Trip Grant Program, offered by the Iowa History Center at Simpson College, provides funding for K-12 students to explore Iowa's rich history through educational field trips. Grants cover student tuition and may include transportation costs, with a maximum of $500 per trip. Local schools can apply, ensuring that students in grades 3-10 gain hands-on experience at museums and historic sites. This initiative promotes awareness and appreciation of Iowa's heritage.

The XENO PRIZE for Performance Arts, awarded by Franklin Furnace, supports early-career LGBTQ+-identifying performance artists creating new work in 26 states with restrictive gender-affirming laws. This annual prize, established in 2023, offers $5000 to a selected recipient from proposals submitted for the Franklin Furnace FUND for Performance Art. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2025, encouraging innovative voices in the contemporary performance art landscape.

The Dr. William M. Walker Memorial Medical Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards a $9,000 grant to a postgraduate student entering their final year of medical school in Missouri or Iowa. Preference is given to veteran applicants. Eligible candidates must provide a letter of good standing, a personal essay, and a letter of recommendation. This scholarship aims to support future medical professionals in achieving their educational goals.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.