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About Us

Our Mission

The mission of The Auto Club Group Foundation is to work on behalf of our members and the communities we serve to create lasting solutions, inspire learning and provide funding in the areas of traffic safety, driver education and financial literacy.

Our History

In 1902, nine motor clubs across the country joined together to form the American Automobile Association (AAA) to protect the rights and interests of automobile users and promote better highway and traffic safety. Today, The Auto Club Group Foundation continues to support those interests by investing in traffic safety, driver education and financial literacy initiatives. The Auto Club Group Foundation which is a private Foundation, represents 14 states and 2 U.S territories, and is an integral part of AAA's evolution and success.

How We Work

Our approach to grant funding comes from a very basic principle which is to have an understanding of the goals and objectives of local communities. Our relationships, which have developed from years of community service, allow us to offer support in a more impactful and meaningful way.

The Auto Club Group Foundation, which is a private foundation, is funded by our sponsoring organization, AAA – The Auto Club Group. We award grants to organizations and initiatives that enhance our mission in the areas of Traffic Safety, Driver Education and Financial Literacy throughout our 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories.

Priority Areas

Traffic Safety

The Auto Club Group Foundation is dedicated to supporting traffic safety programs and initiatives that make our roadways safer for all users. The ACG Foundation strives to be responsive to emerging traffic safety issues by considering grant applications that are forward thinking and address new technology.

Financial Literacy

The Auto Club Group Foundation supports financial literacy programming in grades K – 12, empowering students with the tools they need to make sound financial decisions.

Driver Education 

The Auto Club Group Foundation wants to ensure everyone has access to quality driver education by supporting scholarships and programming needs in underserved communities.

The Jeffris Family Foundation invites applications for grants from the Jeffris Heartland Fund, to support the development of important historic preservation projects in the states of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, and Wisconsin.The decision to pursue a grant from the Jeffris Heartland Fund must be made in consultation with a Director of the Foundation to discuss your project and request a Jeffris Heartland Fund application form.Directors can also assist grant-seekers with the application process, provide related technical assistance to guide wise and constructive use of the grant funding, and administer grants once awarded. Applications, once invited, are accepted at any time.  Award notices are issued within approximately 30 days of receipt of the application.Grants will be made in the range of $5,000 to $50,000 to cover 50% the cost of an Historic Structure Report, and must be matched dollar-for-dollar with cash from sources unrelated to the Jeffris Family.

Historic Significance of the Site

• Priority will be given to sites of documented national and then state historic significance. Sites with local significance only will not be eligible for funding.
• Priority will be given to sites associated with prominent figures of national, regional, or statewide importance, or with events of national, regional, or statewide significance.
• Priority will be given to sites with significant architectural merit, including association with designers of national, regional, or statewide importance.
• Priority will be given to sites with strong elements of the decorative arts.
• Priority will be given to projects involving historic resources that are extremely rare and/or unique.
• Priority will be given to projects with a high degree of historic integrity, and to work relating to the restoration of original elements. While work to accommodate contemporary usage is acceptable, all work on the property must conform to The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

Proposed Project and Plan

• Priority will be given to applicants that can best demonstrate that a Historic Structure Report or other detailed planning study for which funding is being requested is critical to the accurate and appropriate restoration of the property.
• Priority will be given to applicants that can best demonstrate their intended use will be financially viable and operationally sustainable over time.
• Priority will be given to applicants that can assure that the project will fully comply with The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties through review and oversight by a local historic preservation commission, state historic preservation office, or preservation consultants thoroughly familiar and experienced with those standards.

 Organizational Excellence

• Priority will be given to applicants who can demonstrate a pattern of programming and services connected to the site and their stated mission (e.g. educational programs, events, hospitality).
• Priority will be given to applicants who demonstrate a broad base of membership and community support.
• Priority will be given to applicants with demonstrated success in past capital fundraising efforts.

ABOUT PRAIRIE MEADOWS

Prairie Meadows has played an important role in central Iowa since we opened in 1989. That’s because we are a nonprofit, locally-managed business, one of only two nonprofit casinos in the nation. We began with the goal of lessening the burden of government by promoting economic development, jobs, agriculture, and tourism in the state of Iowa.

Our Story

Outstanding entertainment offerings have made Prairie Meadows the No. 1 entertainment destination in Iowa. Prairie Meadows offers nonstop casino action, live and simulcast horse racing, sports wagering, big-name entertainment, local and regional musical acts, and full-service dining amenities. Additionally, Prairie Meadows Hotel provides our guests with a convenient, comfortable place to stay. And our Events Center facilities are ideal for hosting large community gatherings, weddings, business meetings, trade shows, and celebrations with friends and family.

As a licensed 501(c)(4) nonprofit corporation, Prairie Meadows supports a broad range of nonprofit proposals and projects that support arts and culture, education, economic development, and human services. 

Sponsorship & Donations

Prairie Meadows provides support to non-profit organizations for event sponsorships and in-kind donations. Applications are accepted throughout the year.

Our Vision

Communities where families love to live and businesses thrive

Our MissionThe mission of the Iowa West Foundation is to improve lives and strengthen communities for current and future generations. We do this by:

• Catalyzing creativity and collaboration
• Empowering partners for community success
• Fostering leadership that reflects the community
• Supporting people-focused outcomes

The Iowa West Foundation is funded by investment income and through the Iowa West Racing Association (IWRA), which receives contracted fees paid by local casino operators — Ameristar and Harrah’s. The Foundation is an independent nonprofit recipient, as described in the 501(c)3 section of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation began its grant program in 1996, which awards funds for various community projects of governmental entities or nonprofit organizations. The Iowa West Foundation is headquartered in Council Bluffs, Iowa. Iowa West Foundation GrantsThe Iowa West Foundation strives for communities where families love to live, and businesses thrive. To accomplish this vision, the foundation uses a variety of tools, including an open grants program. The grants program supports priorities identified by our southwest Iowa residents. Through thousands of ideas shared in community Imagine Hour listening sessions, four core ideas defined a community vision of success. Together they form a picture of a vibrant, successful community. They are:

• Belonging – Everyone in the community experiences a deep sense of being included and appreciated. 
• Financial stability – The community is rooted in meeting all residents’ basic needs and beyond.
• Opportunity – High quality opportunities are available to pursue personal achievement.
• Well-being – Individuals have the opportunity to thrive, not just survive.

Types of Grants We Award 

• Program Grants:
  • Program Grants are a form of restricted support. They help a grantee implement a defined project or activity and are tied to specific, project-based outcomes. When considering a program grant application, Iowa West Foundation considers the likelihood that proposed activities will contribute to our four target outcomes. As our outcomes look to long-term community improvement, we tend not to fund projects/programs that are only focused on short-term impacts.
  • If your organization is requesting more than one year of funding, you should provide a clear case as to how the longer commitment supports a stronger impact than a single year commitment would.
  • Renewal of program grants requires your organization be in good standing.
  • As a general practice, grantees who receive more than one renewal should be able to begin to shift from annual reporting to evaluating their data from a longitudinal perspective
• Operating Grants:
  • Operating Grants are a form of unrestricted support. They fund a grantee’s overall activities, including administrative functions. Iowa West Foundation supports grantee operations when the overall work of the grantee during the period of support will demonstrate results in our target outcomes. 
  • This suggests a strong alignment between the work of the applicant and the goals of the foundation. Typically, it is demonstrated through a combination of a clearly aligned workplan and a track-record of clear results.
  • As a general practice, it is uncommon for Iowa West Foundation to award an operating grant to an organization without first developing a strong relationship through program grants.
  • Operating grants are only available to organizations that own or lease a commercial office space in Pottawattamie County.
  • As a general practice, we typically fund public/governmental entities through program or capital grants rather than general operating grants.
• Capital Grants:
  • Capital Grants are restricted grants that support the infrastructure needs of an organization. Typically, this is through the acquisition, construction, or installation of facilities or equipment. 
  • Applicants for capital grants should make the case as to why this project will help it fulfill its mission more effectively and align with the Foundation’s target outcomes.
  • Competition is important to ensuring strong value in capital projects. Applicants should seek two or more quotes from vendors or contractors.
  • For building improvements or construction, please note that it is a requirement that the applicant own the building or land being improved.
  • As a general practice, Iowa West Foundation does not support deferred or general maintenance. As such, when supporting a capital grant, we try to understand how our applicants have planned for the continued maintenance, operation, and eventual replacement for what will be purchased through the grant.
• Launch Grants:
  • Launch Grants are a type of grant that responds to a frequently heard need from our partner organizations. They are designed to support the creation of needed programs or organizations that are not provided by the existing system. Typically, these include organizations / programs that are in their formative phase. Because they are new, they often entail a higher amount of risk. Iowa West Foundation is only interested in supporting launch grants that are additive rather than duplicating existing services.
  • Recognizing that it is unlikely that newer endeavors will show outcomes during the grant period, applicants will be asked to identify important milestones or deliverables that show strong management or progress toward their goal(s).
  • Many of the requests we receive in this category are for a multi-year commitment to give time to establish the new organization / program. In these cases, renewal will be based on the organization being in good standing and showing the anticipated progress.
  • As a general practice, a strong plan and/or understanding of need should precede a grant request. If no plan is in place, Iowa West Foundation may offer support to create a plan before considering the full request.

Contingency Funding

In addition to the four grants described above, the Iowa West Foundation maintains a Contingency Fund to support existing grantees and partners. We know our partners are tackling some of our communities’ most significant challenges. As a result, the risk of disruption due to circumstances out of our partners’ control is always possible. We want to be active in anticipating and resolving these issues. To do so, we have special funding that is set aside for managing risk. There is no application for the contingency fund. Instead, Iowa West Foundation deploys these funds proactively when we identify an opportunity to help overcome a barrier to our partners’ success.

Typically, this is through:

• Capacity building:
  • When possible, we seek to resolve areas of risk before they become problems. One way to do this is to ensure our partners have the skills and advice they need to be successful. Typically, capacity building opportunities arise from our due diligence and reporting conversations.
• Grant contingency support:
  • When an unexpected obstacle arises, we can add additional funds to existing grants to help our partners overcome the challenge. These opportunities are most frequently identified through interim reports or when our partners proactively reach out to share their needs.
• Emergency funding:
  • In the lifecycle of a nonprofit there can be moments of vulnerability. During these times, Iowa West Foundation may choose to infuse an organization with emergency operational funding to help weather a period of difficulty.

The purpose of the Clay County Community Foundation is to connect donors who care with causes that matter, and to serve as a trusted resource for addressing issues that impact the quality of life in our county. 

The Clay County Community Foundation Board of Directors awards grants based on donor wishes, county needs, and a proposing organization's capacity to provide effective service to the people of Clay County. Grants support present and emerging needs in the areas of community betterment, education, health, arts and culture, and human services.

Community Betterment Grants

The Clay County Community Foundation anticipates having more than $85,000 to distribute to nonprofit organizations in Clay County by March of each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCCF Community Betterment Grants are currently being requested from nonprofit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Clay County.

Clay County Community Foundation funds can be used for broad, flexible purposes, including assisting arts and culture, economic development, education, environment, health and human services, recreation areas and supporting high-impact community opportunities. Funds are intended for new projects, or for the enhancement or expansion of existing services, programs, or facilities; on-going operational expenses of an organization are not eligible for grant funding. Grant requests may range from a $500 minimum to a $10,000 maximum. 

CCCF Prioritized Needs (in no particular order)

Economic Development/Quality Job Creation – Focus is on innovative non-traditional economic development activities, i.e. youth entrepreneurial development programs, artist entrepreneurship programs, microenterprise lending programs, etc. and creation of new jobs or expansion of existing jobs.

Activities (Cultural, Recreational, Social and Educational) – Special emphasis is placed on activities that bring people together throughout the county, and that bring people to the county. 

Parks and Outdoor Recreation Facilities – This includes trails, campgrounds and other recreational facilities. 

Utilize and Support Existing Organizations, Resources, Services and Facilities that Contribute to Quality of Life – Includes projects to more effectively market or make services and programs more fully available to people, whether through better marketing or through efforts to accommodate employed parents schedules, or the scheduling preferences or requirements of senior citizens, youth individuals with special needs, etc. 

Health and Human Services – This includes projects offering mental health, medical or dental services and those providing other assistance resources to the community or efforts to help residents find those resources.

Grant Guidelines & Instructions

The Cherokee County Legacy Foundation distributes funds to non-profit organizations in Cherokee County each year, thanks to support from the Iowa Legislature and local donors. As a result, applications for CCLF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Grants are accepted from non-profit organizations and local governmental entities for projects that positively impact quality of life in Cherokee County.

Gold Grant

These requests may range from $10,001 to $25,000. The application process for the Gold Grant begins with a Letter of Intent to Apply, submitted to the CCLF by November 15. Letter should be submitted electronically to the CCLF via its email address at cclf51012@gmail.com. In this letter, (a maximum of 2 pages) the following items should be included:

• Description of the organization applying
• Description of the project
• Overview of funding sources and the grant amount requested
• Impact the project will have on Cherokee County communities
• Contact information for person in charge of the project.

Applicant may be required to attend an interview with the CCLF Board of Directors during the review process. Notification of approval to move forward will be received in early December. If selected as a finalist for a Gold Grant, applicants must complete the Gold Grant Application Form.

CCLF Prioritized Needs

(in no particular order)

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Akron Community Foundation

Background

Florence Peterson had a vision to ensure that charitable programs in the community were supported now and in the future. In 2001, she planted the first seeds of giving through a gift from her estate to establish an endowment within the Siouxland Community Foundation for the exclusive benefit of the Akron, Iowa community. The Akron Community Foundation now serves as a vehicle to receive gifts from individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to establish endowment funds that will provide grant awards for years to come. All gifts received are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in Akron. A seven-member advisory board appointed by position is responsible for governing the Foundation.

Mission

The mission of the Akron Community Foundation is to identify and fulfill community needs, impact future growth and development of Akron, promote volunteerism, attract and distribute funds, and enhance the quality of life in Akron by providing leadership, creating opportunities, and challenging the community to share time, talent, and resources through personal involvement and commitment.

The purpose of the Akron Community Foundation is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in the Akron community.

Akron Community Foundation Grant

Purpose

The purpose of the Akron Community Foundation’s grant program is to respond to present and emerging charitable needs within Akron by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

LSB Foundation

Iowans have generous hearts. We're part of that tradition.

For more than 100 years, Lincoln Savings Bank has given back to local communities in many ways - and as often as possible. In 2008, in the wake of severe floods and a devastating tornado, we raised money for disaster relief and created a formal foundation. Our efforts have grown over the years, and these days the LSB Foundation donates thousands of dollars annually to charities, community groups and other 501c(3) organizations.

The LSB Foundation accepts grant applications year-round from 501(c)(3) organization in the communities we serve. 

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages fish and wildlife programs, ensures the health of Iowa’s forests and prairies, and provides recreational opportunities in Iowa’s state parks. Just as importantly, the DNR carries out state and federal laws that protect air, land and water through technical assistance, permitting and compliance programs. The DNR also encourages the enjoyment and stewardship of natural resources among Iowans through outreach and education.

The DNR's mission:

To conserve and enhance our natural resources in cooperation with individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life in Iowa and ensure a legacy for future generations.

Conservation Education Program (CEP)

The Conservation Education Program (CEP) is a key provision of the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Act of 1989. $350,000 is available for this program. The DNR administers the conservation education program.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Ida County Community Betterment Foundation

Background

The Ida County Community Betterment Foundation (ICCBF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The ICCBF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Ida County.

Mission

The mission of the ICCBF is to promote philanthropy, serve as a vehicle to carry out the charitable objective of donors, build endowments, identify needs and make grants for the benefit of the citizens and communities of Ida County.

The purpose of the ICCBF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Ida County.

Ida County Community Betterment Foundation Grant

Purpose

The purpose of the ICCBF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Ida County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.. 
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Monona County Community Partners Foundation

Background

The Monona County Community Partners Foundation (MCCPF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Monona County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the Monona County Community Partners Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for present and future generations in the communities it serves by linking philanthropic leadership and charitable resources with needs and opportunities in the county.

The purpose of the MCCPF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Monona County.

Monona County Community Partners Foundation Grant

The purpose of the MCCPF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Monona County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Monona County Community Partners Foundation (MCCPF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The MCCPF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Monona County.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

Sioux County Community Foundation

Background

The Sioux County Community Foundation (SCCF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Sioux County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the Sioux County Community Foundation is to encourage and provide opportunities for charitable giving, to manage and distribute funds in a responsible manner, and to enhance the quality of life for the people of Sioux County, Iowa.

The purpose of the SCCF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in Sioux County.

An Advisory Board representing each community and the varied interests of Sioux County is responsible for governing the Foundation.

Sioux County Community Foundation Grant

The purpose of the SCCF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within Sioux County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events. 
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The Sioux County Community Foundation (SCCF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The SCCF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in Sioux County.

Our History

People often ask me why I started Trees Forever back in 1989. I’m a very visual person by nature and have always loved driving through the Midwest countryside and enjoying the beautiful scenery. I was driving to a meeting once on a very windy winter day. The ditches were piled high with snow, and I began to notice all the black soil that had collected on top of snowbanks. As I drove along, the wind blew cornstalks and dried-out weeds across the road in front of me—along with our beautiful black topsoil!

As I continued to drive, I also noticed some of the magnificent windbreaks that were protecting many of the farmsteads—and the fields full of precious topsoil—from the blowing winds. Many landowners had obviously cared for and added to their windbreaks over the years, keeping them healthy and well maintained. Others had removed them completely or had let nature take its course, with only a few scraggly trees remaining. Along streams and rivers, trees and shrubby vegetation were often missing.

I wondered how our water quality would suffer, thinking of what could be done to help. I thought to myself, “Something needed to change… and soon!” As I talked with friends and colleagues later, we came to the conclusion that someone needed to replant all those trees, and work to keep others from being lost. And that someone had to start with us! That is, basically, how and why Trees Forever came to be—a grassroots group of citizen volunteers determined to make a difference in our neighborhoods, communities and state. And it’s why we continue to do the important work we do today; to make sure our world is a greener, healthier, more vibrant place for our children and grandchildren! 

For decades, Trees Forever has helped thousands of community volunteers, civic leaders, government officials and landowners just like you, each and every year. We’ve helped you and others plant and care for more trees, shrubs, and native grasses and plants. And we continually promote the value and importance of our natural areas, so that they are protected and can continue to grow and thrive for future generations to enjoy. Trees Forever wants to talk to you about how you can use native plants to feed and shelter pollinators.

Pollinator Habitat Conservation Grant

Each year, we recruit pollinator habitat demonstration sites in Iowa and Illinois to showcase proper site selection and preparation, appropriate plant species composition, and on-going maintenance requirements for the establishment of sustainable pollinator-friendly habitat.

Your yard, farm, a parcel you own, a local city lot, school or nature center could become a pollinator habitat demonstration site. We also are always happy to talk to your service club, city council, garden group, or class about why pollinators are important and how you can help them. This habitat improvement program is possible thanks to support from Trees Forever members, Syngenta, Operation Pollinator and Growmark.

Mission

The Scott County Regional Authority (SCRA) is a non-profit corporation which provides funding to educational institutions, government/civic and not-for profit organizations through a grant process. These funds are generated from gaming receipts received through the Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf. The Scott County Regional Authority mission is to serve the needs of the residents of Scott County, Iowa.

Total grants awarded since 1991 is $101,361,741. A variety of organizations have received awards providing services such as arts, city government, colleges/universities, conservation, county departments, disabilities, fire and rescue, historic preservation, housing, law enforcement, libraries, medical, museums, park and recreation, schools, seniors, social services, veterans, and youth services.

About Us

The Siouxland Community Foundation (SCF) provides services to donors to establish endowed funds without incurring the administrative and legal costs of an independent foundation. Individuals, families, corporations, nonprofits, private foundations and Siouxland communities can realize nearly any charitable intent. When creating a charitable fund within SCF you determine its purpose:

• Assist the elderly
• Enhance a neighborhood or community
• Address community health issues
• Feed the hungry
• Provide scholarships
• Provide a safe place for children to play

O’Brien County Community Foundation

Background

The O’Brien County Community Foundation (OBCCF) is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of O’Brien County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and governmental agencies. These gifts are carefully invested and the income from endowments is used to make grants to public charities that best meet the needs in the county.

Mission

The mission of the O’Brien County Community Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in O’Brien County communities by encouraging permanent charitable giving to meet the needs of present and future generations.

The purpose of the OBCCF is to connect donors who care with causes that matter and to enhance the quality of life in O’Brien County.

An Advisory Board representing each community and the varied interests of O’Brien County is responsible for governing the Foundation.

O’Brien County Community Foundation Grant

The purpose of the OBCCF grant program is to respond to present and emerging needs within O’Brien County by making grants in the following areas:

• Arts & Culture: Provide or increase access to theatre, music, arts, dance, museums, historical events.
• Civic: Community betterment/beautification, city government, emergency services, citizen participation, parks and recreation.
• Education: Early childhood development/daycare, primary, secondary, and continuing education; libraries.
• Environment: Pollution control, natural resource conservation, protecting wildlife, botanic/horticultural activities.
• Health: Promotion and maintenance of physical, dental and mental health; rehabilitative services, crisis intervention.
• Human Services: Housing/shelter, public safety, services for the elderly, youth, families, handicapped, economically disadvantaged, minorities or other special groups.

The O’Brien County Community Foundation (OBCCF) Advisory Board is charged with carefully reviewing grant proposals and recommending grants to be awarded. The OBCCF Advisory Board will make grant recommendations based on county and community needs, and the proposing organization’s capacity to effectively enhance the quality of life in O’Brien County.

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.

Community Pilot Grant

The GPCAH is dedicated to protecting the health and safety of farmers, ranchers, farm workers, their families, and agricultural community members in the Midwest and beyond. The GPCAH is funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which is a unit of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. We conduct basic and applied research, offer education, training and outreach, and translate research results into effective ways to prevent work-related injury and illness in agriculture. Our pilot grant program supports research projects that address hazards relevant to farmers and farm workers in our 9-state region (IA, IL, IN, KS, NE, MO, MN, OH, & WI). We especially encourage projects addressing work-related stress and mental health, the prevention of slips/trips/falls and other traumatic injuries, and chemical safety.

Community-track pilot project directors are typically staff members of organizations with established connections to agricultural workforces who propose to develop, implement, and/or evaluate evidence-based agricultural safety and health intervention or outreach/education programs. Recent community-track pilot grant topics include respiratory protection training to prevent COVID-19 among agricultural workers, suicide prevention training within Iowa’s agricultural community, and podcasts focusing on mental health and farm stress.

Funding

The Center funds pilot projects (up to $30,000 per project) intended to promote innovative outreach and research efforts to prevent agricultural injury and illness. The pilot program supports both community-based organizations and academic researchers, especially new investigators and trainees. Projects must target agricultural injury and illness prevention to help improve safety and health among agricultural communities in our Midwest region.

Our Mission

The DRA, through its gaming and entertainment facilities provides for social, economic and community betterment and lessens the burden of Dubuque city and area government, while contributing to the growth and viability of Dubuque area tourism.

Core Grant

• Focus on People Attraction: Population growth, retention, and tourism
• Coaching opportunities provided by the DRA and community partners throughout the grant cycle

Focus for Grant Applications

Applications should align with the mission of People Attraction: Population Growth, Retention and Tourism. This supports the DRA’s mission of fostering social, economic and community betterment while reducing the burden of the City of Dubuque and area government. It also reflects our vision of being a dynamic community resource, acting as a catalyst to enhance the quality of life and financial well-being of the tri-state community.

Capacity Building vs Material Purchases

Historically, the DRA primarily funded material items. However, in 2022, we shifted our approach to prioritize applications that include capacity building alongside material purchases.

What is Capacity Building?

Capacity building is the process of developing and strengthening the skills, processes, resources, and strategies that organizations and communities need to adapt, grow and thrive in a rapidly changing world. 

Examples of capacity building activities and potential projects:

• Planning Activities: Organizational assessments, strategic planning, and creating development plans/strategies.
• Donor Development: Marketing and communications, online donor portals, and enhancements to the donor experience.
• Strategic Relationships: Strengthening relationships with professional advisors and nonprofit partners.
• Internal Operations: Improvements to donor database, financial management systems, volunteer management, and organizational websites.
• Professional Development: Staff, contractor, or affiliate volunteer attendance at regional or national conferences, or participation in local or online training.
• Financial Audits: First-time audits that open additional funding opportunities for the organization.
• Organization Marketing: Website creation/design, marketing materials, and tools to help promote the organization externally.

About GIG Fund

The GIG Fund is a grant of $2,000-4,000 that supports creative projects and educational events in the Midwest. These funds help organizations present artists in their community by supporting programming and touring costs.

The GIG Fund provides flexible grants for nonprofit organizations to support programs and activities featuring professional artists. GIG Fund grants help cover fees for touring or local artists. Funds may also be used for project costs such as accessibility accommodations and marketing. We work with a panel to help us review applications and distribute grants annually.

GIG Fund

Flexible support to help arts and culture organizations grow their capacity, fund artist engagements, and build community.

What is the GIG Fund?

The GIG Fund is a grant of $2,000-4,000 that supports creative projects and educational events in the Midwest. These funds help organizations present artists in their community by supporting programming and touring costs. The GIG Fund is a grant that supports Midwestern organizations that want to contract with a professional artist to offer activities to their community. 

Matching requirement

Organizations will be required to demonstrate matching funds on a 1:1 basis for the grant amount.

To demonstrate the match, your expenses should each be at least double your GIG Fund grant. Potential sources for the match include salaries and wages, in-kind contributions, volunteer hours, earned and contributed revenue (donations, ticket sales, other non-Federal grants), or cash from the applicant or partner organizations.

About the First Citizens Charitable Foundation, Inc.

Over $7.5 million has been donated to North Iowa and Minnesota Communities

 The First Citizens Charitable Foundation, Inc. is a corporation established under the Iowa Non-Profit Corporation Act under Chapter 504(A) of the Code of Iowa (1995), and commenced existence on December 27, 1995. The Corporation is organized for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes, including, for such purposes, the making of distributions to organizations that qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954.

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. 

Waterville Grants

The Ackley Community Foundation is an affiliate of the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, created by and for the people of Ackley 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 Ackley, Iowa.

What We Support

The Ackley Community Foundation will provide grants to improve life in Ackley, Iowa. The Foundation wants to help develop a community where people want to live, work, play and stay. 

Areas of Foundation giving are:

• Arts & Culture
• Community Betterment 
• Education & Youth Development
• Environment & Animal Welfare
• Health
• Human Service

Funding Priorities

The ACF Committee places high priority on funding projects that:

• Address a community-based need, demonstrate broad community support, and benefits the community as a whole.
• Show the organization’s ability to leverage funding and support from other sources, with budgets clearly showing all matching funds for the project.
• Maximize community resources through cooperation and collaboration with other organizations in the community and avoid replication of services, programs, or projects.
• Reflect organization and staff’s capacity to achieve the desired results of the project.
• Show sustainability without additional long-term financial commitments from ACF.

Royalty Fields Program

The Kansas City Royals Foundation provides financial support to help improve baseball and/or softball facilities throughout the Midwest region through the Royalty Fields Program, presented by Price Chopper. The Kansas City Royals Foundation will provide matching grants to qualifying organizations.

Matching grants are available for major renovations of baseball and/or softball fields used primarily for youth. Major renovations will include the upgrading of essential baseball field components.

Items That Qualify

• New sod​
• Infield​
• Fencing​
• Dugouts​
• Other items necessary to provide safe conditions to play baseball and/or softball

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.

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.

We Fund the Future of the Shooting Sports

The NRA Foundation provides financial support to eligible projects, programs and organizations through its grant program. Each year, volunteer committees from across the country tirelessly raise charitable dollars and generous donors make gifts that are in turn awarded as grants in support of educational and public service programs relating to the shooting sports in our communities.

The General Focus of Foundation Grants is to:

• Promote, advance and encourage firearms, shooting sports and hunting safety
• Educate individuals with respect to firearms, firearms history, participation in the shooting sports, hunting safety, and marksmanship
• Conduct research in furtherance of improved firearms safety and marksmanship facilities and techniques