The Community Foundation of Cedar County offers grant opportunities to support nonprofit organizations in enhancing the quality of life in Cedar County. Established in 2005, the foundation has awarded over $1 million to local organizations, using funds from its endowment earnings to support charitable projects. The foundation seeks to encourage permanent charitable giving that addresses the needs of both present and future generations. Grants are awarded in various sectors, with a broad and flexible approach to funding.

The Spring Grant cycle for 2025 opens on January 1, 2025, and closes on February 28, 2025. Award notifications will be issued by May 2, 2025. The maximum award amount for this cycle is $7,500. Organizations that receive funding must submit a final report by July 1 of the following year. In addition to the spring grant cycle, the foundation also administers a Fall Matching Grant cycle. To qualify for fall funding, organizations must provide a dollar-for-dollar match from fundraising or private solicitation efforts, with proof of matching funds required by December 31 of the application year.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, preferably those with 501(c)(3) status, and qualified governmental agencies. Organizations must comply with the Quad Cities Community Foundation’s Diversity and Non-Discrimination Policy. Funding cannot be used for annual fundraising, endowment funds, deficit financing, grants to individuals, or sectarian purposes. Additionally, an organization may submit only one project application per grant cycle unless another organization applies for a shared project or entity.

Applications must be submitted electronically through the foundation’s online grant submission system. Before applying, prospective applicants are encouraged to review the online tutorial document for guidance on the application process. The application must include details about the project, the organization’s mission, and expected outcomes. The foundation encourages recipients to share their grant-funded project outcomes and success stories.

Grant proposals are evaluated based on their alignment with the foundation’s mission, feasibility, and potential impact on the community. Applicants must demonstrate how their projects will address community needs effectively. The review process ensures that funds are distributed equitably and in a manner that maximizes their benefit to Cedar County.

For further assistance, applicants may contact Kaleigh Trammell via email or by phone at (563) 326-2840. The foundation welcomes inquiries from potential applicants to ensure their projects align with the grant’s objectives and funding priorities.