Strengthening Communities Grant
Strengthening Communities Grants support rural nonprofit organizations that are committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Eligible projects involve the renovation or maintenance of existing facilities, as defined by Iowa Code 8.57.
Funding for the program is made possible by an annual appropriation from the Iowa Legislature to the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority, through the Rebuild Iowa Infrastructure Fund. Applicants must adhere to the funding policies of the Iowa Arts Council.
- Who: Federally tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations incorporated and physically located in an Iowa city with a population of less than 28,000 as determined by the 2020 federal decennial census and committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
- What: $10,000 - $100,000 with a required 1:1/2 match
- When: November 1, 2023 at 11:59 PM for the funding period of January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2026
How to Apply
Grant Writing Resources
Schedule a Meeting
Potential applicants are welcome to schedule a brief meeting with Program Manager Jon Berg in advance of the application deadline if the applicant has additional questions. Potential applicants are encouraged to review all written guidelines and informational resources prior to scheduling a meeting with a program manager. Meetings can be scheduled directly using the program manager’s scheduling page via Microsoft Bookings.
Grant Terms and Definitions
Check out the glossary for definitions of grant terms used in the guidelines.
Example Applications
Examples of previously funded applications are available upon request.
Manage Your Grant
See your award notification email to learn how to manage your grant, including contract compliance and publicity.
Fiscal Year 2023 Guidelines
Grantees that were awarded Strengthening Communities Grants in fiscal year 2023 may use the Fiscal Year 2023 Strengthening Communities Grant Program Guidelines for reference throughout the funding period of January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2025.
Final Report
As a grant recipient, you must complete a final report form at the end of the process and share the impact of the project on the arts and culture in Iowa.