The Inspire Iowa Cultural Tourism Grant program is a collaborative initiative of the Iowa Tourism Office and the Iowa Arts Council, administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). This program is designed to support a select number of large-scale, highly visible arts, culture, and heritage events that elevate Iowa’s status as a premier cultural tourism destination. It aims to attract new visitors, stimulate local economies, and promote the creative sector as a driver of tourism and economic development.

Funding is available for events, exhibitions, performances, or productions that are expected to bring substantial visibility and impact to Iowa communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofit arts, cultural, or humanities organizations and communities that operate a cultural facility in Iowa. To qualify, organizations must maintain a cash operating expense budget of at least $250,000 per year, excluding any other IEDA grant support. This criterion ensures that the supported projects have the organizational capacity to execute high-impact initiatives that align with the program's objectives.

Applicants may request between $25,000 and $50,000 in funding, with a maximum award of $100,000. All awards require a 1:1 cash match. The funds must be used during the grant period of July 1, 2024, through December 31, 2026. Applications must be submitted online by June 30, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Full program guidelines, including detailed eligibility criteria and evaluation criteria, are available on the IEDA website.

Successful applicants will be required to report specific performance metrics, including total attendance, non-local visitor attendance (based on zip codes showing a travel distance of 50+ miles), and return on investment (ROI), calculated as revenue generated divided by total state and local investment. This data helps the state measure the cultural and economic impact of funded projects.

For additional assistance or program-related questions, applicants are encouraged to contact David Schmitz, Director of the Iowa Arts Council, who is available to guide organizations through the application process and ensure alignment with program goals.