Best Grants for Museums in Iowa

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Mission

Strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses. IEDA works to achieve its mission and goals to benefit Iowans while maintaining a high level of transparency. 

Iowa Thriving Communities

The Iowa Thriving Communities initiative recognizes forward-thinking communities that are proactively addressing workforce housing needs. Designated communities complete a highly competitive application process, including a live pitch from teams of local partners to a panel from the Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) and Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA).

Selected communities demonstrate best practices in planning, financial support, targeted development, leadership and employer engagement. Communities previously recognized through the initiative are already seeing strong results, with increased developer interest and significant public and private investments in housing. In addition to valuable scoring advantages for the Federal Housing Tax Credit and Workforce Housing Tax Credits, HOME and Community Catalyst programs (effective through 2028), designated communities will gain statewide and national visibility as models for successful housing strategies.

Requirements

Awarded Iowa Thriving Communities must enter into written agreement with IFA | IEDA

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Mission

Strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses. IEDA works to achieve its mission and goals to benefit Iowans while maintaining a high level of transparency. 

CDBG Pocket Parks Program

Approximately $620,865 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available to cities and counties through the State of Iowa’s Pocket Parks Program. All incorporated cities and all counties in the State, except those designated as HUD entitlement areas, are eligible to apply for and receive funds under this program.

The Pocket Parks Program exists to assist communities in creating new recreational/green space in areas that do not have any via the construction of “pocket parks.” Described as “pocket” parks due to their small size, the proposed site may be located anywhere in the community, but the city-owned lot should be no bigger than a quarter acre. Note that upgrades or expansions to preexisting city/county parks are not allowed under this program.

Pocket parks must be designed by professional engineers and/or architects, and at least some component(s) of the park features must be ADA-accessible. All components of the pocket park must be permanently installed features.

A minimum of 25% matching funds is required.

In order to qualify, communities must delineate a residential “service area” that will benefit from the pocket park and must provide documentation that at least 51% of the households in the service area are considered low-to-moderate income (LMI). For purposes of CDBG programs, “low and moderate income” is defined as persons with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Current income levels can be found on the IEDA website: https://www.iowaeda.com/cdbg/program-guidance/

CFR 200 Audit Requirements

CDBG contracts may be subject to audit. Federal Code (2 CFR 200) requires that recipients that expend $750,000 or more in federal funds within a fiscal year must have a single or program specific audit. When budgeting for CDBG funds, applicants should be aware of these audit requirements:

• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from more than one source of federal funding, an organization-wide audit must be conducted in accordance with federal requirements outlined in 2 CFR 200.514
• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from a single source, a project audit, targeting only transactions dealing specifically with the project, may be performed in lieu of an organization-wide audit.

Communities should consult with their accountants regarding the applicability of an audit and audit requirements.

Audit costs are a CDBG-eligible expense. Organization-wide audits can be paid with CDBG funds proportional to the amount of all other funds included in the audit. The total cost of a project audit can be paid with CDBG funds.

Davis Bacon and Related Acts

Projects that include construction may be subject to the requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act and related laws and regulations. The Davis-Bacon Act applies to all contracts for construction, alteration and/or repairs in excess of $2,000 that involve CDBG funds. Cost estimates for the proposed project should reflect compliance with these requirements.

Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act

For projects that include acquisition and relocation, all recipients given the authority to acquire property are required to follow the guidelines in HUD Handbook 1378 – Tenant Assistance, Relocation and Real Property Acquisition. Cost estimates for the proposed project should reflect compliance with these requirements.

Historic Preservation Review Requirements

Federally funded activities are subject to the review requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The goal of the review process is to identify historic properties, both above and below the ground potentially affected by the undertaking, assess the effects of the undertaking and seek ways to avoid, minimize or mitigate any adverse effects on historic properties.

The review process involves review by IEDA and possible consultation with various agencies, groups and individuals, including the State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO), located in the Department of Cultural Affairs. Although consultation is not required prior to a CDBG award, if the project includes a property that may have historical significance, it is a good idea to contact IEDA early in the project development.

Environmental Review and project initiation

No HUD Funds or non-HUD funds may be committed to the project until the applicant has secured environmental approval from the State, as provided in HUD regulation 24 CFR Part 58. In addition, pending environmental approval and pursuant to 24 CFR Part 58.22(a), no grant recipient or participant in the development process, including contractors or sub-contractors, may undertake an activity that may limit the choice of reasonable alternatives. Such choice limiting actions include real property acquisition, conducting a competitive sealed bid process for the project, leasing, rehabilitation, repair, demolition, conversion, and new construction.

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Mission

Strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses. IEDA works to achieve its mission and goals to benefit Iowans while maintaining a high level of transparency. 

CDBG Planning Grants

Approximately $60,522 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available to cities and counties through the state of Iowa’s Planning Grants Program. All incorporated cities and all counties in the State, except those designated as HUD entitlement areas, are eligible to apply for and receive funds under this program.

The Planning Grants Program allows communities to seek funding for three types of planning tools: Capital Improvement Plans, Asset Management Plans, and Historic District Surveys. Each plan can help communities understand their needs and create long-term strategies for protecting public health, strengthening economies, and sustaining critical infrastructure. These plans allow communities to best steward public, cultural, and historical resources and become more resilient and fiscally stable for generations to come.

Applicants must demonstrate at the time of application that they have, at minimum, a dollar-for-dollar match to the requested award amount.

The Planning Grant Program will not have a HUD National Objective; however, plans developed with CDBG funds must state how they will develop future CDBG projects.  

CFR 200 Audit Requirements

CDBG contracts may be subject to audit. Federal Code (2 CFR 200) requires that recipients that expend $750,000 or more in federal funds within a fiscal year must have a single or program specific audit. When budgeting for CDBG funds, applicants should be aware of these audit requirements:

• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from more than one source of federal funding, an organization-wide audit must be conducted in accordance with federal requirements outlined in 2 CFR 200.514
• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from a single source, a project audit, targeting only transactions dealing specifically with the project, may be performed in lieu of an organization-wide audit.

Communities should consult with their accountants regarding the applicability of an audit and audit requirements.

Audit costs are a CDBG-eligible expense. Organization-wide audits can be paid with CDBG funds proportional to the amount of all other funds included in the audit. The total cost of a project audit can be paid with CDBG funds.

Iowa Economic Development Authority

Mission

Strengthen economic and community vitality by building partnerships and leveraging resources to make Iowa the choice for people and business. Through two main divisions – business development and community development – IEDA administers several state and federal programs to meet its goals of assisting individuals, communities and businesses. IEDA works to achieve its mission and goals to benefit Iowans while maintaining a high level of transparency. 

CDBG Housing - Roofing

Approximately $905,037 in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available to cities and counties through the state of Iowa’s Housing Rehabilitation - Roofing Program. All incorporated cities and all counties in the State, except those designated as HUD entitlement areas, are eligible to apply for and receive funds under this program.

The Housing Rehabilitation - Roofing Program supports low- and moderate-income single-family owner-occupied households in Iowa needing to replace roofs on their homes. Specifically, this program targets roofs that are either failing or pose a threat to the stability of the home structure. This can be determined by doing a visual assessment of the roof to determine if more than 60% of the roof’s life span has passed. This initiative ensures that lower income Iowans will receive the necessary assistance in making repairs they may not have had the resources to do on their own, as well as stabilizing the community's affordable housing stock.

Communities may apply for a maximum of $30,000 per unit, up to 6 units ($180,000 maximum). Match is not required for this program if CDBG funds requested are sufficient to complete the proposed project. However, if requested CDBG funds are not sufficient to complete the project, Applicants must demonstrate that the remaining non-CDBG funding is committed at the time of application.

Eligible projects must demonstrate that the housing units assisted serve only low-to-moderate income (LMI) single-family owner-occupied households and contribute to the long-term sustainability of the community’s affordable housing stock. For purposes of CDBG programs, “low and moderate income” is defined as persons with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income as defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Current income levels can be found on the IEDA website: https://www.iowaeda.com/cdbg/program-guidance/

CFR 200 Audit Requirements

CDBG contracts may be subject to audit. Federal Code (2 CFR 200) requires that recipients that expend $750,000 or more in federal funds within a fiscal year must have a single or program specific audit. When budgeting for CDBG funds, applicants should be aware of these audit requirements:

• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from more than one source of federal funding, an organization-wide audit must be conducted in accordance with federal requirements outlined in 2 CFR 200.514
• For recipients of $750,000 or more in federal funds received from a single source, a project audit, targeting only transactions dealing specifically with the project, may be performed in lieu of an organization-wide audit.

Communities should consult with their accountants regarding the applicability of an audit and audit requirements.

Audit costs are a CDBG-eligible expense. Organization-wide audits can be paid with CDBG funds proportional to the amount of all other funds included in the audit. The total cost of a project audit can be paid with CDBG funds.

Davis Bacon and Related Acts

Projects that include construction may be subject to the requirements of the Davis-Bacon Act and related laws and regulations. The Davis-Bacon Act applies to all contracts for construction, alteration and/or repairs in excess of $2,000 that involve CDBG funds. Cost estimates for the proposed project should reflect compliance with these requirements.

Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act

For projects that include acquisition and relocation, all recipients given the authority to acquire property are required to follow the guidelines in HUD Handbook 1378 – Tenant Assistance, Relocation and Real Property Acquisition. Cost estimates for the proposed project should reflect compliance with these requirements.

Historic Preservation Review Requirements

Federally funded activities are subject to the review requirements of Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. The goal of the review process is to identify historic properties, both above and below the ground potentially affected by the undertaking, assess the effects of the undertaking and seek ways to avoid, minimize or mitigate any adverse effects on historic properties.

The review process involves review by IEDA and possible consultation with various agencies, groups and individuals, including the State Historical Preservation Office (SHPO), located in the Department of Cultural Affairs. Although consultation is not required prior to a CDBG award, if the project includes a property that may have historical significance, it is a good idea to contact IEDA early in the project development.

Environmental Review and project initiation

No HUD Funds or non-HUD funds may be committed to the project until the applicant has secured environmental approval from the State, as provided in HUD regulation 24 CFR Part 58. In addition, pending environmental approval and pursuant to 24 CFR Part 58.22(a), no grant recipient or participant in the development process, including contractors or sub-contractors, may undertake an activity that may limit the choice of reasonable alternatives. Such choice limiting actions include real property acquisition, conducting a competitive sealed bid process for the project, leasing, rehabilitation, repair, demolition, conversion, and new construction.

The Outcomes Innovative Pharmacy Grant Program - Entrepreneur Track supports innovative pharmacy initiatives in Iowa, providing up to $50,000 for eligible applicants. To qualify, applicants must be licensed pharmacists or researchers in Iowa, members of the Iowa Pharmacy Association, and submit a letter of interest along with a 10/20/30 pitch deck. The funds can only be used for direct project costs, excluding overhead and salaries for patient care services.

The Veridian Credit Union’s Nonprofit Partnership Grants, in collaboration with the Community Foundation of Northeast Iowa, offer up to $5,000 to support nonprofit organizations enhancing financial stability through education in financial literacy and employment readiness. This funding prioritizes IRS classified 501(c)(3) public charities serving Iowa and specific Nebraska counties, focusing on organizations with a proven track record in improving financial literacy and demonstrating commitment to diversity and collaboration.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.

The PMRTC Community Betterment Grant Program by Prairie Meadows supports small to medium projects aimed at enhancing community well-being. Grants range from $100 to $99,999 and target various sectors including arts, education, health, and economic development. This initiative aims to uplift Iowans by funding essential services, creating educational opportunities, and improving access to arts for underserved populations. The program reflects Prairie Meadows' commitment to fostering positive change in Central Iowa communities.

The Prairie Meadows Legacy Grant Program offers substantial funding ranging from $100,000 to $1 million for impactful projects in central Iowa. This initiative supports various categories including arts, economic development, education, and health services. By funding iconic projects like the Principal Riverwalk and Pappajohn Sculpture Garden, the program plays a vital role in revitalizing the Greater Des Moines area, enhancing community resources and fostering cultural growth.

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 Norfolk Southern In-Kind Donation Grant supports organizations seeking physical donations of materials that align with their focus areas, including safety, sustainability, workforce development, and thriving communities. This grant is available year-round, with no application deadline. Recipients must be located within Norfolk Southern territory and are encouraged to apply for resources that will enhance their community projects and initiatives, fostering growth and resilience.

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 Country School Grant Program, part of Iowa's Historical Resource Development Program, offers funding for preserving one-room and two-room school buildings. Grants up to $5,000 are available to various eligible entities, including nonprofits and governmental units. The program emphasizes the importance of Iowa's historical resources, encouraging projects that enhance public education and cultural heritage. With an annual budget of $25,000, it aims to support community development through historical preservation.

The Rupert Dunklau Foundation Grant supports organizations with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on Lutheran Higher Education, Health and Human Care, and Faith Strengthening. Since its establishment in 1968, the foundation has aimed to provide financial resources to ministries within the Lutheran tradition, particularly in Nebraska and surrounding states. Eligible projects must align with the foundation's mission to promote the welfare of mankind through educational and health initiatives.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) administers the ATV Trail Grant Program to enhance recreational opportunities in Iowa. Funded by vehicle registration fees, this program supports the acquisition, development, and maintenance of trails for all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off-road utility vehicles (ORVs). By improving riding areas and designated parks, the DNR promotes stewardship of Iowa's natural resources and ensures enjoyable outdoor experiences for residents and visitors alike.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers the Snowmobile Trail Grant Program, providing financial support for the development and maintenance of snowmobile trails using registration fees. Managed by the Iowa State Snowmobile Association, the program ensures public access to trails and supports equipment purchases for trail grooming, fostering outdoor recreation and conservation efforts in Iowa.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers the Conservation Education Program (CEP) to enhance environmental awareness and stewardship among Iowa citizens. With $350,000 available, eligible applicants include educational institutions and organizations. The program aims to support effective curricula and educator stipends, promoting sustainable practices. Grant recipients must maintain detailed records and submit progress reports. Preference will be given to projects that emphasize conservation stewardship and incorporate educational materials across multiple disciplines.

The Alan Peterson Agricultural Scholarship, offered by CommunityGiving, aims to support Minnesota residents pursuing agricultural studies at accredited universities. This scholarship respects natural resources, promotes innovation in agriculture, and encourages research while advocating for the agricultural sector at all levels. Eligible applicants must be entering their junior or senior year in a four-year college, with no GPA requirement. The program seeks to empower future leaders in agriculture and foster community engagement.

The Illinois American Water Environmental Grant Program, established in 2005, supports innovative community-based environmental projects aimed at improving local watersheds and water supplies. Open to organizations within American Water service areas, it funds activities like watershed cleanup and biodiversity projects. Selection criteria emphasize project clarity, design innovation, community collaboration, sustainability, and engagement. This program reflects Illinois American Water's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support, ensuring clean and reliable water resources for all.

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.

FY27 RFP COAEREF27001 for Refugee Mentoring

Purpose

The purpose of this RFP #COAEREF27001 is to select qualified applicants to provide Youth Mentoring (YM) services to Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) eligible youth ages 15–24 in Iowa, consistent with ORR guidance. Program goals are to promote positive civic/social engagement and support educational/vocational advancement. Services include matching youth with mentors (one-on-one or group) and providing case management to support educational and career development, within five years of the youth’s date of eligibility.  The Agency anticipates awarding multiple contracts from this procurement. 

The W R Berkley Corporation Charitable Grant Program supports local 501(c)(3) organizations in Central Iowa, SW Minnesota, and Eastern Nebraska. With a focus on health, community betterment, youth development, education, and food insecurity, grants are awarded twice a year. There are no limitations on request sizes, but only one grant per organization is accepted annually. Funding decisions prioritize organizations with a proven track record of efficiency and success in serving their communities.

2025-2026 WBL-LIFT (Work-Based Learning Leadership & Investment for Field Training)

Strengthening the Work-Based Learning Educator Pipeline Through Targeted Professional Preparation

Iowa school districts will have the opportunity to strengthen the educator pipeline for Work-Based Learning (WBL) through the WBL-Leadership & Investment for the Field (LIFT) Grant Opportunity. WBL-LIFT, or Work-Based Learning Leadership and Investment for Field Training, is designed to support the recruitment, preparation, and retention of career and technical education (CTE) educators by expanding access to WBL-focused professional development and credentialing pathways.

This competitive opportunity will support efforts to increase the number of educators qualified to lead, supervise, and sustain high-quality Work-Based Learning programs in Iowa. Through this initiative, school districts may support professional learning and credentialing connected to the Multioccupations (MOC) Endorsement, the Work Experience Coordinator (WEC) Endorsement, and the Work-Based Learning Supervisor Authorization.

High-quality Work-Based Learning depends on educators who are prepared to coordinate student experiences, build employer partnerships, manage program quality, and support safe and effective learning in workplace-connected settings. WBL-LIFT is intended to strengthen statewide capacity by supporting both early-career and transitioning teachers, while also helping school districts build stronger local systems for WBL delivery.

This opportunity is intended to help school districts:

• Increase the number of educators holding WBL-related endorsements or authorizations
• Support early-career and transitioning teachers entering Work-Based Learning roles
• Strengthen educator preparation tied to high-quality WBL program design and coordination
• Improve local and statewide capacity to deliver sustainable, high-quality Work-Based Learning experiences
• Build stronger systems for educator support, credential attainment, and program implementation

By investing in educator preparation and credentialing, WBL-LIFT will help strengthen Iowa’s capacity to deliver authentic, high-quality Work-Based Learning experiences for students across the state. Expanding the number of WBL-qualified educators will support stronger school-employer partnerships, more effective coordination of student experiences, and increased access to career-connected learning opportunities.

Funding for this opportunity is provided through Iowa’s Work-Based Learning Clearinghouse State Appropriation.

On a competitive grant basis, this opportunity will allow school districts to expand educator access to Work-Based Learning-focused preparation, endorsements, and authorizations that support local program development and long-term sustainability.

Elementary Computer Science Integration Professional Learning

Purpose

This grant is only for those teachers and districts that have confirmed registrations in the Summer 2026 Elementary Computer Science Professional Development. This grant is the manner through which districts will be reimbursed or the purchase of the required materials for this professional development opportunity.

The Black Hills Energy Power of Trees Grant Program, offered in partnership with Trees Forever, supports Iowa communities in tree planting initiatives that promote energy efficiency and environmental beautification. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for projects on public and private properties. This program aims to foster community engagement while enhancing local landscapes and energy conservation efforts.