The LincolnWay Community Foundation (LWCF) was established in 1987 and is dedicated to distributing funds from endowments to nonprofit organizations that enhance the betterment of rural Clinton County, Iowa, and its residents. The foundation aims to support initiatives that improve the community’s quality of life, economic well-being, education, health, and cultural heritage. Specifically, LWCF funds projects that have a direct impact on rural communities within the area, including towns such as Andover, Calamus, Charlotte, Delmar, DeWitt, Goose Lake, Grand Mound, Lost Nation, Low Moor, Toronto, Welton, and Wheatland.

LWCF accepts grant applications from nonprofit 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations or those affiliated with public agencies, such as local government entities, school districts, or park and recreation boards. Organizations that do not have 501(c)(3) status may apply if they partner with a qualifying agency. A Fiscal Sponsorship Agreement must be submitted alongside the application in these cases. The foundation encourages applications from projects that address pressing community needs, especially those that contribute to improving economic conditions, educational opportunities, public health, and tourism in rural Clinton County.

The foundation’s funding focus is broad, encompassing community projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life, maintaining rural heritage, supporting conservation efforts, and improving public health. However, LWCF does not fund annual fundraising events, religious activities, organizational endowment funds, or recurring operational expenses like staff salaries or rent.

Applicants should focus on creating projects that solve a significant community issue, have clear and measurable goals, and are collaborative in nature. The foundation places emphasis on projects that involve partnerships with local agencies and avoid duplication of existing services. When reviewing applications, the LWCF considers the impact of the proposed project, its alignment with the foundation’s mission, and the realism of the proposed budget.

Applications must be submitted online by March 1, 2025, through the Foundation’s grant management system. Afterward, grants will be awarded in April 2025, with the funded projects being recognized at the LWCF Annual Event on November 3, 2025. A Grant Status Report detailing the use of funds must be submitted after the project’s completion, no later than January 31, 2026, for eligibility for future funding opportunities.