Current Available Grant List

SIMPCO would like to remind members that they may utilize grant writing services as part of their membership dues. SIMPCO will provide up to 20 hours of staff time per grant application, at no charge. If the grant application requires more than 20 hours to prepare, additional charges may apply. Additional costs for grant writing will be waived for grants that allow SIMPCO to receive an administrative fee if awarded.

Please check back often as grants will be updated as information is available. Grants with an upcoming deadline are listed first. Grants with an open deadline are listed at the end of the page.

Grants due in October:

Iowa CDBG Water and Sewer Funds (IA) – Funds awarded through this annual competitive program assist cities and counties with projects such as sanitary sewer system improvements, water system improvements, water, and wastewater treatment facility projects, storm sewer projects related to sanitary sewer system improvements and rural water connections. For more information, click here. Applications are due by October 1, 2023.
Iowa’s Statewide Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) – Eligible project activities for Iowa’s TAP funding continue to include a variety of smaller-scale transportation projects such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities, recreational trails, safe routes to school projects, and community improvements such as historic preservation, vegetation management, and some environmental mitigation related to stormwater and habitat connectivity. Detailed information about Iowa’s TAP program may be found in the program guidance. For more information, click here. IDOT is not accepting applications at this time.
Brownfield Assessment Grant – Assessment Grants provide funding for a grant recipient to inventory, characterize, assess, conduct a range of planning activities, develop site-specific cleanup plans, and conduct community involvement related to brownfield sites. The performance period for these grants is three years. For more information, click here. Applications are due by October 1, 2023.
South Dakota Industrial Park Road Grants (SD) – This program is a means to assist cities and towns that have a new industry coming to their community and need new or expanded access to the industry. For more information, click here. Applications are due by October 15, 2023.
Agri-Business Access Grant (SD) – This program is a means for local governments to address road needs associated with new agri-business, such as ethanol plants, large-scale elevators, etc. In many cases, these new agri-businesses create additional truck traffic that an existing road may not be built to take. For more information, click here. Applications are due by October 15, 2023.
Iowa Energy Infrastructure Revolving Loan Program – The EIRLP provides low-interest loans for energy infrastructure projects that facilitate electricity or gas generation, transmission, storage, or distribution. For more information, click here. Applications are due by October 19, 2023.

Grants due in November:

Grants due in December:

U.S. DOT Thriving Communities Program – Thriving Communities is a $30 million collaboration between the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help communities access once-in-a-generation levels of federal infrastructure funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and deliver transformative projects. The program will pair a cohort of applicants with organizations that will provide technical assistance, planning, and capacity-building support to grow community capacity to take projects from conception through to delivery. The program is focused on supporting under-resourced and disadvantaged urban, rural, and Tribal communities. For more information, click here. Letter of intent due by December 8, 2022.
County Bridge Match Program – The current condition of Nebraska’s rural bridges impedes personal and commercial travel which is critical to the safety and prosperity of our citizens. The Transportation Infrastructure Bank Fund creates the County Bridge Match Program which will devote additional funding to pilot innovative solutions to help repair or replace critical bridges on county road systems. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 9, 2022.
Iowa for Sustainable Communities (IISC) Community Partnership Program – Applicants may consist of a municipality, a county government, councils of governments, or a collection of communities with similar characteristics, such as economic or cultural districts, or a transportation corridor. Previous community partners of IISC may apply. For more information, click here. Letter of interest by December 15.
All American City Awards – AAC brings together communities from across the country and provides an opportunity for innovative leaders and passionate citizens to connect with and learn from their peers. The Award shines a light on communities that are working to tackle tough issues and lifts these places up for national recognition. For more information, click here. Letter of intent is due by December 15, 2022, with application due by February 15, 2023.
Vacant Buildings Demolition Fund – A grant program established to fund the demolition of vacant buildings owned by the state or formerly owned by the federal government and now under county ownership that are no longer used for state purposes. $1,000,000 dollars is allocated for the 2022 – 2023 fiscal year. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 22, 2022.
T-Mobile Hometown Grants – Program will help fund projects to build, rebuild, or refresh community spaces that help foster local connections in your town. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 31, 2022.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program – The state is accepting Notices of Interest (NOIs) for projects that will reduce or eliminate losses from future natural disasters. These include but are not limited to: Property acquisition/elevation, electric utility hardening, detention basis, warning sirens, elevate/protect wastewater lift stations, backup generators, tornado safe rooms, and small flood barriers. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 23, 2022.
Flood Mitigation Assistance – Program to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings and structures insured under the National Flood Insurance Program. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 27, 2022.
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities – Funding for pre-disaster mitigation activities. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 27, 2022.
Economically Significant Development Fund – Funding designed to provide grant assistance for projects that are primarily “verticle infrastructure” with the purpose of increasing tourism opportunities in Iowa. Vertical infrastructure means land acquisition and construction, major renovation and major repair of buildings, all appurtenant structures, utilities, site development, and recreational trails. There is no minimum or maximum total project cost. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 31, 2022.
Outdoor Recreation Fund – Funding designed to encourage development and enhancements to outdoor reaction opportunities in Iowa, such as regional trail connectors and major outdoor attractions. There is no minimum or maximum total project cost. Proposals must articulate how the funding will be used to enhance tourism to the region and/or state. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 31, 2022.
Tourism Attraction Fund – Funding designed to provide grant assistance for projects that create additional tourism opportunities, but that do not qualify for either the Economically Significant Development Fund or the Outdoor Recreation Fund. This program will provide grant funds as reimbursement for specific eligible expenses. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 31, 2022.
IEDA Destination Iowa Program – Destination Iowa is an ARPA $100 million pool of funds that consists of four funding programs. These are: The Economically Significant Development Fund, Outdoor Recreation Fund, Tourism Fund, and Creative Placemaking Fund. The first three funds are more traditional in nature and include capital projects that address these three areas. The creative placemaking pool funds a small number of very large placemaking projects on a long-term basis. For more information, click here. Applications are due by December 31, 2022.

Grants due in January:

Iowa CDBG Community Facilities and Services Fund – This annual competitive program assists projects such as daycare facilities, senior centers, vocational workshops, and other community services such as stormwater projects. The goal of this program is to provide economic opportunities for people, especially those of low-and-moderate income. For more information, click here. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis as funds are available.
Iowa CDBG Water and Sewer Fund – Funds awarded through this annual competitive program assist cities and counties with projects such as sanitary sewer system improvements, water system improvements, water, and wastewater treatment facility projects, storm sewer projects related to sanitary sewer system improvements and rural water connections. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 1, 2023.
IDNR Solid Waste Alternatives Program (SWAP) – Program to encourage landfill alternatives – recycling, diversion, new technologies, new manufacturing processes, etc. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 2, 2023.
Historic Preservation Tax Credit (Large Projects) – The Historic Preservation Tax Credit program provides State tax credits to developers who sensitively rehabilitate historic buildings to offer them new life. Iowa offers this tax credit program to ensure character-defining features and spaces of buildings are retained to help create distinct and vibrant communities. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 9, 2023.
Business Leadership Network Community Grant Program – The University of Iowa College of Public Health and the Business Leadership Network are excited to release the Community Grant Program Request for Proposals (RFP) for 2023. The College has an ongoing interest in collaborating with Iowa communities to meet the increasing needs for public health-related initiatives and projects. Topic areas include but are not limited to healthy lifestyles, population health, addressing health disparities, workplace safety/wellness, community needs assessment, children and youth issues, healthy aging, arts and health collaborations, and sustainability of multi-generational livable communities. Additional preference will be given to projects that are focused on rural areas or address nutrition or food insecurity. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 11, 2023.
Iowa West Foundation (IA) – Community development, economic development, education, and human needs projects. For more information, click here. Applications are due January 15, 2023.
(NE) Civic and Community Center Financing Fund – The CCCFF program provides grants and state aid for the development of civic, community, and recreation centers. The CCCFF program supports enhances and grows the Good Life throughout Nebraska. For more information, click here. Letters of intent are due by January 15, 2023.
Junior League of Sioux City Mildred Anderson Grant – Mildred Anderson community grants up to $1,000 are awarded to community need projects within the Siouxland tri-state area(30-mile radius). The projects must address a community need. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 15, 2023.
IEDA Enhance Iowa Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Grant – Funds for capital projects, such as trails, libraries, community centers, pavilions, entertainment venues, museums, recreational facilities, and more. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 15, 2023.
Community Catalyst Building Remediation – Grants to communities for the redevelopment, rehabilitation or deconstruction of buildings to stimulate economic growth or reinvestment in the community. Strong applications will show the potential of catalytic economic growth in the community; improve appearances & safety; make use of underutilized property, exhibit appropriate design standards; and be well-funded. Economic growth may include the creation of additional jobs, growth of new or existing businesses, development of new housing units, increase property values, or potential population growth. For more information, click here. Letter of intent is due by January 27, 2023. Final application is due April 14, 2023.
REAP Energy Audit and Renewable Energy Development Assistance Program – Program to help strengthen American energy independence by helping rural businesses gain access to more sources of renewable energy and establish energy-efficiency solutions. For more information, click here. Applications are due by January 31, 2023.

Grants due in February:

IDOT Rise Grant – Projects funded by the RISE program promote economic development in Iowa through the establishment, construction, and improvement of roads and streets. The RISE program is targeted toward value-adding activities that feed new dollars into the economy and provide maximum economic impact to the state on primary or secondary roads, and city streets open for public use. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 1, 2023.
CDBG Water and Sewer Program – Water and wastewater capital improvements: plants, mains, lagoons, pumps, towers, etc. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 1, 2023.
Iowa Historic Preservation Tax Credit – The Historic Preservation Tax Credit program provides State tax credits to developers who sensitively rehabilitate historic buildings to offer them new life. Iowa offers this tax credit program to ensure character-defining features and spaces of buildings are retained to help create distinct and vibrant communities. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 1, 2023.
Paint Iowa Beautiful – Funding provided to Iowa groups to purchase Diamond Vogel Paint for painting the exterior of community buildings. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 10, 2023.
Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Program – STBG provides flexible funding that may be used by states and localities for transportation projects. The intent of these projects is to preserve and improve the conditions and performance on any Federal-aid highway, bridge, public road, pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure, and transit capital projects. Each year, approximately $3 million is available in STBG funds for communities within the Sioux City metro area including Sioux City, Sergeant Bluff, South Sioux City, Dakota City, North Sioux City, Dakota Dunes, Jefferson, and Union County. Applications available on the SIMPCO website are due by February 10, 2023.
All American City Awards – AAC brings together communities from across the country and provides an opportunity for innovative leaders and passionate citizens to connect with and learn from their peers. The Award shines a light on communities that are working to tackle tough issues and lifts these places up for national recognition. For more information, click here. Letter of intent is due by December 15, 2022, with application due by February 15, 2023.
Enhance Iowa Sports Tourism Grant – Projects that market or promote sporting events in Iowa. Eligible sporting events include professional, collegiate, and amateur-level sporting events that occur in Iowa. Promotion/marketing activity can occur for up to two years. The grant funds various size projects that are targeted to major events that will attract people to the region and state. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 15, 2023.
Siouxland Regional Transportation Planning Association (SRTPA) Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) Program – STBG provides flexible funding that may be used by states and localities for transportation projects. The intent of these projects is to preserve and improve the conditions and performance on any Federal-aid highway, bridge, public road, pedestrian/bicycle infrastructure, and transit capital projects. Each year, approximately $2.3 million is available in STBG funds for rural areas and communities located in Woodbury, Plymouth, Cherokee, Ida, and Monona Counties. Applications available on the SIMPCO website are due by February 17, 2023.
SD FTA Section 5310 Funds – The Section 5310 program is intended to enhance the mobility of seniors and individuals with disabilities. The Section 5310 program funds programs to serve the special needs of transit-dependent populations beyond traditional public transportation services and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) complementary paratransit services. For more information, click here. applications are due by February 17, 2023.
Iowa Great Places – This is to designate new Iowa Great Places. IGP are designated cities or counties that have a nexus or concentration of unique amenities that have the potential for development into greater tourist and cultural attractions. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 17, 2023, for re-designation.
Iowa DNR Derelict Building Grant Program – Funding to assist small communities and rural counties in addressing derelict buildings through deconstruction, renovation/mothballing, and/or conducting environmental studies. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 24, 2023.
Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant Program – This program helps communities around the country carry out projects with significant local or regional impact. RAISE discretionary grants to help project sponsors at the State and local levels, including municipalities, Tribal governments, counties, and others complete critical freight and passenger transportation infrastructure projects. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 28, 2023.
Iowa Cultural and Entertainment Districts – A designation program designed to showcase and market creative spaces, cultural amenities, and entertainment options in a relatively compact area. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 28, 2023.
Rural Business Development Grant (RBDG) – The RBDG program supports targeted technical assistance and training to develop or expand small and emerging private businesses in rural communities or areas. Grant funds may be used for such activities as project planning, business counseling/training, technical assistance, market research, feasibility studies, professional and technical reports or product/service improvements. For more information, click here. Applications are due by February 28, 2023.

Grants due in March:

National Park Services-Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program – Supports community-led natural resource conservation and outdoor recreation projects across the nation. This program assists local communities in realizing their conservation and outdoor recreation vision and goals by providing a broad range of services and skills. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 1, 2023.
Ida County Community Betterment Foundation (ICCBF) – The ICCBG is a charitable foundation created by and for the people of Ida County to receive gifts from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations and governmental agencies. Grants requests range in size from $250 to $10,000. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 1, 2023.
Monona County Community Partners Foundation – 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 count. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 1, 2023.
Trees for Kids – The program serves to educate K-12 and college students in Iowa about the importance of trees through tree planting events at schools and on public land. Grantees can be awarded up to $2,500 to cover the cost of trees and mulch. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 4, 2023.
Iowa Great Places – This is to designate new Iowa Great Places. IGP are designated cities or counties that have a nexus or concentration of unique amenities that have the potential for development into greater tourist and cultural attractions. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 10, 2023, for new designation.
Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant – Created to provide funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, “front line” firefighters available in their communities. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 17, 2023.
Iowa Energy Center Competitive Grant Program – Designed to facilitate energy-related economic development in Iowa. The program supports projects that provide a benefit to Iowa’s residential and commercial customers. Projects must also aid in the implementation of at least one of the seven key focus areas of the Iowa Energy Plan. For more information, click here. Pre-applications are due by March 23, 2023.

The Community Forestry Grant Program – provides reimbursable grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 to be used for the purchase and planting of trees suitable to Iowa on publicly owned lands. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 30, 2023.
IDNR Solid Waste Alternatives Program – Program to encourage landfill alternatives – recycling, diversion, new technologies, new manufacturing processes, etc. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 31, 2023.
Empower Rural Iowa Broadband Grant Program – The State of Iowa announced this month that communities may apply for consideration as a targeted community for future broadband investments. Successful applicants will be designated as Broadband Intervention Zones. Since 2018, the Empower Rural Iowa Broadband Grant Program has awarded more than $350 million to provide service to unserved and underserved locations in the state, but the geographic locations of new facilities were requested by broadband service providers, not by communities. For more information, click here. Applications are due by March 31, 2023.

Grants due in April:

Iowa CDBG Water and Sewer Fund – Funds awarded through this annual competitive program assist cities and counties with projects such as sanitary sewer system improvements, water system improvements, water and wastewater treatment facility projects, storm sewer projects related to sanitary sewer system improvements and rural water connections. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 1, 2023.
Community Catalyst Building Remediation – Through the Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program, the Iowa Economic Development Authority will provide grants to communities for the redevelopment, rehabilitation or deconstruction of buildings to stimulate economic growth or reinvestment in the community. Strong applications will show the potential of catalytic economic growth in the community; improve appearances & safety; make use of underutilized property, exhibit appropriate design standards; and be well-funded. Economic growth may include the creation of additional jobs, growth of new or existing businesses, development of new housing units, increase in property values, or potential population growth. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 15, 2023, with a letter of intent due by January 27, 2023.
South Dakota Community Access Road Grants (SD) – This program is a means for small towns to pave or reconstruct important local roads such as their Main Street. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 15, 2023.
South Dakota Industrial Park Road Grants – This program is a means to assist cities and towns that have a new industry coming to their community and need new or expanded access to the industry. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 15, 2023.
Iowa Women’s Foundation Core Grants – Provides $25,000 grants to shatter one of the six barriers – employment, child care, housing, education/training, transportation and mentoring – to women’s economic self-sufficiency. One grant will be awarded in each category. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 28, 2023.
CDBG Downtown Revitalization -provides grants to communities for activities contributing to comprehensive revitalization in historic city centers or core downtown areas. The program is primarily focused on building façade improvements to privately owned buildings in downtowns. Buildings with first-floor residential use are prohibited from program participation. Work on roofs, for up to 40% of that building’s total costs, is also eligible. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 30, 2023.
CDBG Housing Upper Story Conversion – This program funds activities limited to existing buildings to either rehabilitate un-occupiable units or convert existing spaces into new units. All spaces must be vacant and un-occupiable at the time of application and for a period of at least five (5) years. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 30, 2023.
Nebraska DOT Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) – The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) is seeking projects to be funded using Statewide Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) funds. Eligible projects must meet one or more of these eligibilities and must relate to surface transportation: 1) Construction, planning, and design of on-road and off-road trail facilities for pedestrians, bicyclists, and other nonmotorized forms of transportation, including sidewalks, bicycle infrastructure, pedestrian and bicycle signals, traffic calming techniques, lighting and other safety-related infrastructure, and transportation projects to achieve compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq). 2) Construction, planning, and design of infrastructure-related projects and systems that will provide safe routes for non-drivers, including children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities to access daily needs. 3) Conversion and use of abandoned railroad corridors for trails for pedestrians, bicyclists, or other nonmotorized transportation users. 4)Construction of turnouts, overlooks, and viewing areas. 5) Historic preservation and rehabilitation of historic transportation facilities. 6) Construction of Complete Street/Safe Streets For All improvements. For more information, click here. Applications are due by April 30, 2023.

Grants due in May:

Iowa West Foundation – Community development, economic development, education, and human needs projects. For more information, click here. Applications are due May 15, 2023.
Fund for Siouxland – Funding for arts & culture, civic affairs, education, health, and human services. Grants are available to nonprofit organizations and qualified units of government within a 50-mile radius of Sioux City. Grants generally do not exceed $5,000. For more information, click here. Applications are due by May 15, 2023.
Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Conservation Education Program – The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) aims to inspire people to connect with their natural resources. The Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Conservation Education Program is the funding mechanism for the IDNR to support educational programs. For more information, click here. Applications are due by May 15, 2023.
Iowa DNR Conservation Education Program – The Conservation Education Program (CEP) is a key provision of the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Act of 1989. A five-member board implements the CEP and annually they allocate approximately $350,000 in grants for conservation education in Iowa. For more information, click here. Applications are due by May 15, 2023.
Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant – The Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Discretionary Grant Program (CFI Program) is a new competitive grant program created by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to strategically deploy publicly accessible electric vehicle charging and alternative fueling infrastructure in the places people live and work – urban and rural areas alike – in addition to along designated Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs). For more information, click here. Applications are due by May 30, 2023.
Union Pacific Community Ties Giving Program (IA, NE, SD): As part of the Community Ties Giving Program, local grants help Union Pacific achieve their mission by providing small and medium-sized grants within the priority cause area to local organizations spread widely across Union Pacific’s footprint. For more information, click here. Applications are due May 31, 2023.

Grants due in June:

Iowa Living Roadway Trust Fund (IA) – Working through many partners in Iowa, the Living Roadway Trust Fund (LRTP) supports integrated roadside vegetation management (IRVM) programs; and educates the public on the benefits, use, and care of roadside vegetation, including native plants. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 1, 2023.
Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines Affordable Housing Program (IA) – Housing grants for homeownership, down payment assistance, rental housing, development projects, and rehabilitation/renovation. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 2, 2023.
Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) – Funding for a wide variety of projects that lower energy costs, reduce carbon emissions, improve energy efficiency, and reduce overall energy use. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 5, 2023.
Iowa Workforce Housing Tax Incentive – Housing Projects that meet one of four criteria: Housing development located on a grayfield or brownfield site; repair or rehab of dilapidated housing stocks; Upper story housing development; New construction in a greenfield. These grants are competitive in part because the program is more flexible than most in terms of income limits and incentive amounts. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 9, 2023.
Nebraska CDBG Tourism Development (NE) – The purpose of the Tourism Development (TD) Category is to provide investments in effective and affordable tourist attraction facilities to quality communities that are investing in long-term development. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 30, 2023.
Nebraska CDBG Economic Development (NE) – The objective of the Economic Development (ED) category is to assist businesses that expand the state’s economic base and which create quality jobs principally benefiting employees in the low- and moderate-income levels. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 30, 2023.
Nebraska CDBG Youth Job Training (NE) – The Nebraska JAG program is designed for “at-risk” youth from households to help young people stay in school through graduation, pursue post-secondary education, and secure quality entry-level jobs leading to career opportunities. The Nebraska JAG program partners with local school districts, and through that partnership, an educator is hired to implement the Nebraska JAG program to eligible students. Eligible young people for the Nebraska JAG program must have barriers, as defined by the JAG program that makes them more at risk in graduating from high school, pursuing postsecondary education, and successful addition to the labor force. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 30, 2023.
Creative Places Project Grant – Provides $500-$2,500 to develop arts and culture projects that advance creative placemaking as a community workforce or tourism strategy. Creative Places Project Grants provide support for small projects that engage artists, creative workers, and cultural organizations to enhance Iowa communities. For more information, click here. Applications are due by June 30, 2023.

Grants due in July:

IDOT Recreational Trails Program – The Iowa Transportation Commission approved a one-time, $5 million allocation of funding to partially offset COVID-19-related reductions in the SRT program. The activities eligible for funding under this program can go towards the acquisition, construction of new trails, maintenance, resurfacing, and restoration of existing recreational trails; development and rehabilitation of trailside and trailhead facilities and trail linkages. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 1, 2023.
Iowa CDBG Water and Sewer Fund (IA) – Funds awarded through this annual competitive program assist cities and counties with projects such as sanitary sewer system improvements, water system improvements, water and wastewater treatment facility projects, storm sewer projects related to sanitary sewer system improvements and rural water connections. For more information, click here. Applications are due July 1, 2023.
Iowa Solid Waste Alternatives Program (IA) – Programs to encourage landfill alternatives – recycling, diversion, new technologies, new manufacturing processes, etc. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 1, 2023.
Rural Housing Preservation Grant – grant program which provides qualified public agencies, and private nonprofit organizations, which may include but not be limited to, Faith-Based and Community Organizations, and other eligible entities grant funds to assist very low- and low-income homeowners in repairing and rehabilitating their homes in rural areas. In addition, the HPG program assists rental property owners and cooperative housing complexes in repairing and rehabilitating their units if they agree to make such units available to low- and very-low-income persons. For more information, click here. Pre-applications are due by July 5, 2023.
Safe Streets and Roads for All – Funds to be awarded on a competitive basis to support planning, infrastructure, behavioral, and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists; public transportation, personal conveyance, and micro-mobility users; motorists; and commercial vehicle operators. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 10, 2023.
South Dakota Community Access Road Grants (SD) – This program is a means for small towns to pave or reconstruct important local roads such as their Main Street. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 15, 2023.
South Dakota Agri-Business Access Grant (SD) – This program is a means for local governments to address road needs associated with new agri-business, such as ethanol plants, large-scale elevators, etc. In many cases, these new agri-businesses create additional truck traffic that an existing road may not be built to take. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 15, 2023.
South Dakota Industrial Park Road Grants (SD) – This program is a means to assist cities and towns that have a new industry coming to their community and need new or expanded access to the industry. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 15, 2023.
Iowa Thriving Communities Initiative – The initiative will provide communities that are leveraging innovative methods to attract housing opportunities for their workforce with a chance to be recognized for their efforts. A limited number of communities will be awarded the designation, which comes with highly sought-after and lucrative scoring points for the Federal Housing Tax Credit and/or Workforce Housing Tax Credit programs. The scoring points will be available through the end of the calendar year following the community’s designation as an Iowa Thriving Community. For more information, click here. Applications are due by July 17, 2023.
MRHD Impact Match Grant – The Impact Match Grants Program provides awards ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 for one year to support larger-scale projects or programs. MRHD awards grants in this program to projects that create a significant impact in addressing the needs of the community and the organization’s work. This grant is not renewable and requires cost-sharing or a match. For more information, click here. Pre-application is due by July 31, 2023. Applications are due by August 31, 2023.

Grants due in August:

Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program – Helps to carry out projects by certain Federal, Tribal, State, and local governments, including municipalities, counties, and others that reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions and improve habitat connectivity for terrestrial and aquatic species. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 1, 2023.
Iowa Traffic Safety Improvement Program (IA) – Funds to cities and counties for roadway safety improvements, research, studies, or public information initiatives. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 15, 2023.
Iowa REAP Parks and Open Spaces Grant (IA) – Recreational grants for the acquisition and development of open space and park areas. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 15, 2023.
National Infrastructure Project Assistance (MEGA) Program – The Mega program supports large, complex projects that are difficult to fund by other means and are likely to generate national or regional economic, mobility, or safety benefits. Eligible projects could include highway, bridge, freight, port, passenger rail, and public transportation projects of national or regional significance. Per the law, 50 percent of funds are available for projects above $500 million in total cost, and 50 percent are available for projects between $100 million and $500 million in total cost. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 21, 2023.
Infrastructure for Rebuilding American (INFRA) Program – The INFRA program awards competitive grants to multimodal freight and highway projects of national or regional significance to improve the safety, accessibility, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of freight and people in and across rural and urban areas. Eligible projects will improve safety, generate economic benefits, reduce congestion, enhance resiliency, and hold the greatest promise to eliminate supply chain bottlenecks and improve critical freight movements. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 21, 2023.
Rural Surface Transporation Grant (RURAL) Program – The Rural program supports projects that improve and expand our nation’s surface transportation infrastructure in rural areas in order to increase connectivity, improve the safety and reliability of the movement of people and freight, and generate regional economic growth and improve quality of life. Eligible projects for Rural grants include highway, bridge, and tunnel projects that help improve freight and safety, and provide or increase access to agricultural, commercial, energy, or transportation facilities that support the economy of a rural area. 90% of rural funding must be awarded in $25 million or greater amounts. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 21, 2023.
Rural Enrichment Grant Program (IA) – The Rural Enrichment Grant program aims to support small quality-of-life projects that will create meaningful results in rural communities. Developing quality spaces for people to want to live, work, play, and engage will support the vibrancy of Iowa’s rural places. Eligible projects must be open to the public and contribute to the vitality and engagement of the community. This grant program is a result of the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa Initiative’s 2018 Recommendations. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
Rural Housing Assessment Grant (IA) – The Rural Housing Assessment Grants program seeks to support the use of publicly available online information through the “Profile of Iowa” tool and rural community efforts to interpret this hard data with supplemental information as well as to implement through changes to development codes, local ordinances, and housing incentives specific to their community needs. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
Rural Innovation Grant (IA) – The Rural Innovation Grant program aims to support creative ideas that address current issues and challenges faced by rural communities associated with the themes of community investment, growth, and connection. This program is a result of the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa Initiative’s 2018 Recommendations. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
Rural Child Care Market Study Grant (IA) – The Rural Child Care Market Study Grant program seeks to support the use of data and analysis by rural communities to determine the specific needs and solutions for their area. Through a greater understanding of their geographic market, demographics, competition, and other factors, communities can be armed with the information they need to make proactive steps toward addressing their childcare challenges. Funding from the program will empower communities to partner with a third party to assess their current childcare market environment and develop strategies. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
Rural Leadership Bootcamp Grant (IA) – The Rural Leadership program provides training, mentorship, and funding to rural communities and regions initiating leadership programs. Grantees will participate in a two-day boot camp resulting in a work plan and a one-year mentorship. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
Rural Scale-Up Grant (IA) – The Rural Scale-Up Grant program aims to support the replication and spread of creative solutions that are addressing current issues and challenges faced by rural communities. This program is a result of the Governor’s Empower Rural Iowa Initiative. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
Rural BOOST Program (IA) – Aims to provide teams of experts to assist passionate community and business leaders in developing intentional plans for next-step growth. This pilot program is designed for rural communities, nonprofits, or employers to receive personalized technical assistance for identifying and implementing action steps to launch into the next stage of success. Rural BOOST has two tracts that target either communities or businesses. The Rural BOOST Program is designed to assist businesses or communities which have plateaued or hit an unexpected challenge to gain momentum for new growth. Warning: Rural BOOST is not for the faint of heart. Applicants must be committed to leading a transformation in rural Iowa if only in their own community, organization, or business. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
Rural Return Program (IA) – Program-supported creative programming that attracts new residents to move and/or work in rural communities. Grant funding supported the development and implementation of incentive programs. Across the state, there are small towns losing population or witnessing an aging population. This funding opportunity aimed at addressing that challenge by empowering communities to develop a program to attract new residents to locate within their community to live and/or work. Incentive programs could be targeting a specific profession, such as teachers or dentists; support a specific demographic, such as veterans; or celebrate local assets, such as providing recreation packages or business gifts. For more information, click here. Applications are due by August 30, 2023.
MRHD Impact Match Grant – The Impact Match Grants Program provides awards ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 for one year to support larger-scale projects or programs. MRHD awards grants in this program to projects that create a significant impact in addressing the needs of the community and the organization’s work. This grant is not renewable and requires cost-sharing or a match. For more information, click here. Pre-application is due by July 31, 2023. Applications are due by August 31, 2023.

Grants Due in September:

Iowa’s Living Roadways Community Visioning Program – Communities in need of transportation enhancement planning assistance and populations of fewer than 10,000 residents are eligible to participate in the Community Visioning Program. Thriving communities have volunteers, government representatives, and interest groups that collaborate to complete the visioning process. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 1, 2023.
IDOT Rise Grant – Projects funded by the RISE program promote economic development in Iowa through the establishment, construction, and improvement of roads and streets. The RISE program is targeted toward value-adding activities that feed new dollars into the economy and provide maximum economic impact to the state on primary or secondary roads, and city streets open for public use. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 1, 2023.
Iowa Brownfield/Grayfield Redevelopment Tax Credit Program (IA) – This program assists with redevelopment aimed at improving Iowa’s economy while reducing environmental hazards. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 1, 2023.
Iowa Clean Water Loan Program (IA)– Created to give loans to water and wastewater projects. For more information, click here. Applications are due September 1, 2023.
Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant (IA) – The Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant is a grant program provided by Main Street Iowa (MSI) and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) for brick-and-mortar building projects in designated Main Street districts. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 8, 2023.
Iowa West Foundation (IA) – Community development, economic development, education, and human needs projects. For more information, click here. Applications are due September 15, 2023.
Iowa State Revolving Fund (SRF) / Clean Water Loan Program (IA) – Funding through the Iowa SRF program for watershed and stormwater control projects. Eligible applicants would include local governments that have a State Clean Water Revolving Fund loan. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 1, 2023.
Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau non-LE Highway Safety Special Project Grant (IA) – The mission is to identify traffic safety issues and, through partnerships with city, county, state and local organizations, develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa’s roadways using federally-funded grants to improve traffic safety. GTSB’s vision for the office is a place where motorists, pedestrians and cyclists share the safest roads in the nation. Projects must address the safety of vulnerable road users, i.e. pedestrians, bicyclists, and other users, such as horse and buggy (if applicable in your area), e-scooters (if applicable in your area), etc., and be based on problems identified in communities and supported with data. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 15, 2023.
Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods (RCN) Program – Opportunity for communities that are seeking funding for projects that address harm from past infrastructure planning decisions, accelerate equitable community revitalization and improve access to everyday destinations. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 28, 2023.
Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Program – The RCP Program aims to advance and support the reconnection of communities divided by transportation infrastructure – with a priority on helping disadvantaged communities improve access to daily needs (jobs, schools, healthcare, grocery stores, and recreation). Funds for the fiscal year (FY) 2023 RCP grant program are to be awarded on a competitive basis to support planning and capital construction activities that aim to restore community connectivity through the removal, retrofit, mitigation or replacement of highways, roadways, or other infrastructure facilities that create barriers to mobility, access or economic development. For more information, click here. Applications are due by September 28, 2023.

Open Deadline Grants:

Community Facilities Program Disaster Repair Grants – This program provides grants to repair essential community facilities in rural areas that were damaged by Presidentially Declared Disasters in Calendar Year 2022. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area, and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings. For more information, click here.
Public Works and Economic Adjustment Assistance (PWEAA) – EDA supports bottom-up strategies that build on regional assets to spur economic growth and resiliency. EDA encourages its grantees throughout the country to develop initiatives that present new ideas and creative approaches to advance economic prosperity in distressed communities. Through this NOFO EDA intends to advance general economic development in accordance with EDA’s investment priorities, but also to pursue projects that, where practicable, incorporate specific priorities related to equity, workforce development, and climate change resiliency so that investments can benefit everyone for decades to come. For more information, click here.
Community Catalyst Building Remediation – Grant funding for redevelopment, rehabilitation, or deconstruction of buildings to stimulate economic growth or reinvestment in the community. For more information, click here. Applications are by invitation only, after approved pre-application.
Municipal Inland Port Authority Act – Nebraska is ideally situated as an industrial and logistical hub for multiple industries across the United States. The Municipal Inland Port Authority Act (“Act”) is intended to stimulate the Nebraska economy by incentivizing the development of new industrial hubs and providing the economic development tools necessary to acquire and develop large shovel-ready sites. The creation of one or more inland port authorities in Nebraska will serve as a mechanism to develop both commercial and industrial sites. In addition to the development of commercial and industrial sites, Nebraska’s inland port authorities will serve as regional merging points for multi-modal transportation and the distribution of goods. For more information, click here.
Traffic Engineering Assistance Program (TEAP) – Provides 100 hours of engineering assistance for operations and traffic safety issues. For more information, click here.
USDA Rural Development Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Funds – This program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and stormwater drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas. For more information, click here.
Travel, Tourism, & Outdoor Recreation – Through the Travel, Tourism & Outdoor Recreation program, EDA is focused on accelerating the recovery of communities that rely on the travel, tourism and outdoor recreation sectors. $750 million of EDA’s American Rescue Plan funds are allocated to support the following efforts:
- State Tourism Grants: $510 million in non-competitive awards to help states quickly invest in marketing, infrastructure, workforce, and other projects to rejuvenate safe leisure, business and international travel.
- Competitive Grants: $240 million to help communities that have been hardest hit by challenges facing the travel, tourism, and outdoor recreation sectors to invest in infrastructure, workforce or other projects to support the recovery of the industry and economic resilience of the community in the future. For more information, click here. State Tourism applications are due 60 days after receiving an invitation. Competitive Tourism applications are due within 60 days of invitation.
Economic Adjustment Assistance – The Economic Adjustment Assistance program is EDA’s most flexible program, and grants made under this program will help hundreds of communities across the nation plan, build, innovate, and put people back to work through construction or non-construction projects designed to meet local needs. For more information, click here. Rolling due date for applications.
T-Mobile Hometown Grants Program – In partnership with Main Street America and Smart Growth America, T-Mobile is committing $25 million toward small-town grants over the next five years through its Hometown Grants program. The program will award up to 100 towns per year with project funding grants of up to $50,000 each. The program will focus on revitalizing community spaces in towns with 50,000 people or less. Main Street programs are encouraged to apply. For more information, click here.
Power of Connection Community Grant Program (IA) – This innovative economic development program is designed to pair rural communities seeking assistance with IRDC resource teams. Those teams drive both community conversations and solution development for problems or projects. Ultimately, grants of up to $5,000 – funded by ITC Midwest and the IRDC – may be awarded to rural communities for capacity building, strategic planning, studies or assessment. For more information, click here.
Community Heart & Soul Offering $10,000 in Seed Grant (IA NE & SD) – A funding opportunity for small cities and towns nationwide. The Community Heart & Soul Seed Grant Program provides startup funding of $10,000 for resident-driven groups in communities with populations of 2,500 to 30,000 to implement the Community Heart & Soul model. The Community Heart & Soul model engages the entire population of a town in identifying what they love most about their community, what future they want for it, and how to achieve it. For more information, click here.
Iowa CDBG Community Facilities (IA)– The program assists projects such as daycare facilities, senior centers, vocational workshops, and other community services such as stormwater projects. For more information, click here. Applications are due September 2023.
Iowa CDBG Career Link Employee Training (IA) – The Career Link program provides funding to help develop training programs for primarily low to moderate income individuals in an effort to increase employee skills and develop a skilled workforce for employers to draw from. For more information, click here.
USDA Community Facilities Direct Loan and Grant Program (IA) – This program provides affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas. An essential community facility is defined as a facility that provides an essential service to the local community for the orderly development of the community in a primarily rural area and does not include private, commercial or business undertakings. For more information, click here.
AED Grant Program (IA NE SD) – This program is designed to help institutions and individuals everywhere, place these amazing life-saving devices at an affordable price. For more information, click here.
Economic Development Set-Aside (EDSA) (IA) – The EDSA program provides financial assistance to businesses and industries requiring assistance to create or retain job opportunities in Iowa. Priority is given to projects that create manufacturing jobs, add value to Iowa resources and/or increase exports. For more information, click here.
Iowa DOT/DNR Fund (IA)– Funding provided for the roadside beautification of primary system corridors with plant materials. Maximum of $100,000 per application per year. For more information, click here.
Good Sports Equipment Grants (IA NE & SD) – Good Sports gives all kids the lifelong benefits of sport and physical activity by providing new equipment, apparel, and footwear to those most in need. The award amount if 10% of the total retail value of the items. For more information, click here.
Stormwater Best Management Practices Loan (IA)– This program facilitates low-interest loans to private and public entities for implementing environmentally responsible strategies for stormwater management. For more information, click here.
Single Family Housing Repair Loans & Grants (IA) – Also known as the Section 504 Home Repair program, this provides loans to very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes or grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards. For more information, click here.
Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program (IA) – Provides loans and grants to help microenterprise startup and grow through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund and to provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro-entrepreneurs. For more information, click here.
Pedestrian Curb Ramp Construction (IA) – Assist cities in complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on primary roads in Iowa cities. Improvements must involve a municipal extension of a primary road. Curb ramps must meet ADA standards. For more information, click here.
Economic Development Set-Aside (EDSA) (IA) – The EDSA program provides financial assistance to businesses and industries requiring assistance to create or retain job opportunities in Iowa. EDSA develops viable communities that provide economic opportunities for people, especially those with low and moderate incomes. For more information, click here.
BNSF Foundation (IA NE & SD) – The foundation is dedicated to supporting the communities we serve and in which our employees live, work, and volunteer. Your organization, or program, should exist in or serve a community near one of the BNSF’s rail lines to be eligible to apply for grants. For more information, click here.
Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) (IA NE & SD) – Provides grants for low-cost, systemic safety improvements in the $10,000/mile range, focusing on lane departure crashes. For more information, click here.
Small Town Sign Replacement Program (IA) – This program will provide up to $5,000 of signs and signposts per applying community on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, click here.
Traffic Engineering Assistance Program (TEAP) (IA) – Provides 100 hours of engineering assistance for operations and traffic safety issues. For more information, click here.
Railroad Revolving Loan and Grant Program (IA) – The RRLG Program is administered by the Office of Rail Transportation at the Iowa Department of Transportation. The program provides financial assistance to improve rail facilities that will create jobs, spur economic activity and improve the rail transportation system in Iowa in three separate categories. When sufficient funds are available, a notice of funding availability is issued that includes an application due date and the approximate amount of funding available. For more information, click here.
United Way of Siouxland Small Grants (IA) – The intent of the Small Grants Program is to provide support for community projects, programs, or initiatives in need of a small, one-time grant between $1,000 and $5,000, but may not be eligible for funding through other grant opportunities. For more information, click here.
KaBoom! Community Construction Grant (IA NE & SD) – Dr. Pepper Snapple and KaBoom have teamed up to offer $15,00 grants to be used toward the purchase of playground equipment. For more information, click here.
Railroad Revolving Loan and Grant Program (IA) – This program provides financial assistance to improve rail facilities that will create jobs, spur economic activity and improve the rail transportation system in Iowa. Anticipating approximately $3.1 million available for eligible projects. For more information, click here.
Rural Local Initiatives Support Corporation Community Facilities Fund (IA NE & SD) – Rural Local Initiatives Support Corporation’s Community Facilities Fund is a loan that provides capital to help develop and improve essential community facilities in rural areas, including health care centers, hospitals, educational facilities, and other facilities in rural communities with populations under 20,000. For more information, click here.
Trees Forever (IA) – Grants available across Iowa to help diverse community forests and areas that welcome the public. Projects may include planting seedling trees and woody shrubs in public spaces including but not limited to county and community parks, trail ways, roadsides, stream corridors, schools and civic buildings, cemeteries, and more. For more information, click here.
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant – Hazard mitigation plans and projects, including tornado safe rooms, building and utility retrofits, minor flood control projects, elevations and relocations of buildings in flood hazard areas and stormwater management projects (Eligible: local governments and some nonprofits). For more information, click here.
State Revolving Fund Wastewater and Drinking Water Treatment Financial Assistance Program (WTFAP) – Grants for water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure projects and funded with a portion of the taxes paid on metered water. For more information, click here.

Grants due in November:

2017 Community Change Micro Grants – This program awards up to $1,500 to fund or help to catalyze smaller-scale, low-cost projects and programs that increase the prevalence of walking, expand the diversity of people and organizations working to advance walkability, and help to make walking safer, easier, and more fun for all community members. For more information, click here. Applications due by November 10.
Iowa West Foundation – Tourism, recreation, and entertainment capital projects. For more information, click here. Applications due by November 15.