The University of Iowa

Community Improvement

Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, The

The foundation improves the quality of life for all by promoting charitable giving, connecting donors with causes they care about and providing leadership on important community issues. The organization initiates programs, coordinates resources, and supports organizations that enhance education...

Application Deadline 

The Community Foundation has two competitive grant programs made possible by contributions to the Better Together Fund. Information for grant seekers is at Grants for Nonprofit Organizations.

Cedar Falls Community Foundation

The Cedar Falls Community Foundation inspires and connects individuals, families, and organizations to enhance our community, support nonprofits, elevate educational opportunities, and build legacies through philanthropy.

Application Deadline 

For information on scholarship eligibility, applications, and other details, see the scholarships section of the website. Applications are accepted in April-May each year.

Three competitive grants are also offered each year. The application period is April 15-June 30. For details, see the Competitive Grant Funds web page.

Tye (Martha-Ellen) Foundation

The mission of the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation is to perpetuate the generosity and giving philosophy of Martha-Ellen Tye by providing support for and working with programs, projects, and organizations that are striving to make a better life for the people of Marshalltown, Iowa, and San Antonio,...

Application Deadline 

Email for information or apply online at Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation Grants.

Deb Borton, Program Manager: info@marthaellentyefoundation.org

Deadlines for receiving proposals are March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1.

Moore Family Foundation, Inc.

The board has designated Central College, a 501(c)3 organization in Pella, Iowa, as its only donee. Central College makes application to the foundation for specific programs. Currently the focus is on faculty grants to improve a professor's specific programs.

Application Deadline 

Lisle Foundation

The foundation supports organizations involved with arts education, performing arts, higher education, cancer, and community development.

Application Deadline 

Applications should be addressed to: Mary Landhuis, 807 E Main St., PO Box 89, Clarinda, IA 51632

Applications should include a written request

Submission deadline: None

Giacoletto Foundation (John P & Lawrence J)

The Foundation carries on the Giacoletto brothers’ devotion to education, as well as their interest in the technical and cultural aspects of life.

The foundation believes that a better-educated public will honor the lives and memories of both John and Lawrence Giacoletto.

Application Deadline 

Application address: Barbara Allen, 1195 East Post Rd Suite 2, Marion, IA 52302

Phone: (319) 365-1910

Email: Info@glacoletto.org

Submission deadline: March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31

South Central Iowa Community Foundation

Our mission is to contribute to a better life for people of South Central Iowa by helping donors to carry out their charitable intent and by providing responsible stewardship of gifts for community purposes.

Application Deadline 

See website for application forms and additional information for individual counties. 

Iowa Arts Council

Iowa Arts & Culture Resilience Grants provide flexible support to Iowa’s arts, humanities and cultural nonprofit organizations to undertake activities that expand organizational capacity, increase financial stability, promote equity and inclusion, and enhance programmatic offerings.

Application Deadline 
Monday, May 3, 2021