REVOLVING LOAN FUND FOR NONPROFITS
The Community Foundation has partnered with the East Central Iowa Council of Governments (ECICOG) to offer low-interest loans to local nonprofits. Loans of $2,500 – $25,000 are available for nonprofit organizations headquartered in and serving Linn County. Loans are managed by ECICOG, and funding comes from the Community Foundation’s Community Investment Fund, which supports programs or projects that catalyze community involvement on issues of broad importance. Learn more and apply for a loan here.
THRIVE INDICATION OF INTEREST FORM DUE FEBRUARY 20
This year's Thrive Cohort will focus on professional leadership development opportunities for BIPOC individuals employed by or providing significant grassroots support for nonprofit organizations. The cohort experience includes professional leadership training by consultants, valuable workshops and self-discovery, complimentary networking lunches, and impactful social networking with peers. Due to the investment in the leadership training, grants will not be awarded to participants’ organizations this year. Learn more about Thrive here.
LEARN TO LEAD FOR NONPROFIT MANAGERS
The Community Foundation, Kirkwood Continuing Education and United Way of East Central Iowa will offer Learn to Lead for Nonprofit Managers, a 16-hour course designed specifically for nonprofit managers who are ready to enhance their leadership skills and make a greater impact, in spring 2026. Over four sessions, new and emerging managers will learn essential leadership skills, the importance of self-awareness, team development, and organizational effectiveness. Tuition is regularly $349, but a special $299 rate will be offered to the first 16 people who register thanks to sponsorship by the Community Foundation and United Way. Up to two participants per organization, please. The training begins on March 12, 2026. Learn more and register here.
FUNDING AVAILABLE FOR RURAL HISTORIC PROPERTIES
Nonprofits, local governments, and tribal councils are invited to apply for the Iowa Rural Heritage Revitalization Grant. These federally funded awards, ranging from $75,000 to $150,000, will support the rehabilitation of historic properties in rural Iowa. Applications are due March 6.
VOICES THAT MOVE US AT CAMP TANAGER
Leonard Burton, President & CEO of the Center for the Study of Social Policy, invites us to imagine and commit to a society rooted in dignity, equity, and shared humanity. This free, public event is hosted by Tanager in partnership with the Meraki Institute of Learning on Wednesday, February 11, 8:30 - 11:30 a.m. at Camp Tanager. Register here.
VOLUNTEER IOWA DAY AT THE CAPITOL
Volunteer Iowa and Iowa MENTOR host Volunteer Iowa Day at the Capitol each year to share with legislators the latest information on the impact of volunteers and mentors in Iowa’s communities. This year, Volunteer Iowa Day at the Capitol will be on Tuesday, February 24. A training webinar at 12:30 on Wednesday, February 4 will prepare attendees with information about the day and Volunteer Iowa's current policy priorities. Register here.
AARP COMMUNITY CHALLENGE GRANTS
AARP is accepting applications for the 2026 Community Challenge Grant. This annual grant focuses on quick-action projects that make communities more livable and spark long-term change. Grants should align with AARP’s mission to serve the needs of people aged 50-plus and increase the quality of life for the community. Learn more here.
LINN COUNTY HISTORIC PRESERVATION GRANTS
The Linn County Historic Preservation Commission is now accepting grant applications from nonprofit organizations for its annual Historic Preservation Grant Program. The Commission is hosting an in-person and virtual grant clinic for applicants. There is $28,800 in grant funding available this year. Learn more here.
| 
