iowa sports tourism grant

Governor Reynolds announces $26.88 million in Destination Iowa projects, invests an additional $15 million for rural Iowa

• Thursday, March 9, 2023
• Press Release

DES MOINES -- Today, Gov. Kim Reynolds and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) announced $26.88 million in grant funding through the final round of Destination Iowa, a $100 million investment in quality of life and tourism attractions. In recognition of the high interest in the program, Gov. Reynolds also announced an additional investment of $15 million to fund Destination Iowa applications from rural communities that did not receive grants in previous rounds.

In all, Destination Iowa awards were granted to 46 projects totaling $115 million that activated $480,265,783 in total investment.

“Destination Iowa has inspired communities in all corners of the state to dream big about projects that will bolster quality of life and attract newcomers,” Gov. Reynolds said. “The demand is so high, especially in rural areas, that I’ve extended the program to help more rural communities realize those dreams.”  

IEDA opened the Destination Iowa program in May 2022 and accepted applications through December 31. Applications were scored based on eligibility, completeness, and the project’s ability to meet the program goal of creating transformational tourism attractions. Destination Iowa grants have been open to cities, counties, nonprofits and other organizations through four separate funds: Economically Significant Development, Outdoor Recreation, Tourism Attraction, and Creative Placemaking.  

The seventh round of Destination Iowa funded the following 10 projects. For the additional $15 million, IEDA reviewed applications already submitted by rural communities, defined as 30,000 residents or fewer that are not adjacent to communities of 30,000 or more residents.

Final awards made from the original $100 million allocation:

The Dubuque Art Museum was awarded $8,000,000 toward the construction of a new museum and a 10,000-square-foot outdoor sculpture garden. The award represents 20% of the total project investment of $39,931,512.

The Dickinson County Conservation Board was awarded $3,500,000 to develop the new Sherwood Forest Park on the former site of The Inn at Okoboji resort. The award represents 35% of the total project investment of $10,013,197.

The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines was awarded $3,280,000 for major upgrades including a new Big Cat Conservation exhibit and an expanded seal and sea lion facility. The award represents 18% of the total project investment of $18,000,000.

The City of Cedar Rapids was awarded $3,000,000 toward the LightLine Loop project in the Czech Village and NewBo District. The award represents 16% of the total project investment of $19,255,775.

The City of Dubuque was awarded $3,000,000 for the addition of an open-air amphitheater on Schmitt Island. The award represents 19% of the total project investment of $15,442,961.

The City of Marshalltown was awarded $2,000,000 for the Linn Creek District development and creative placemaking efforts. The award represents 32% of the total project investment of $6,251,115.

Story County Conservation was awarded $1,500,000 to pave a portion of the Heart of Iowa Nature Trail east of Ames, connecting to Nevada and Maxwell. This award represents 31% of the total project investment of $4,819,000.

The India Heritage & Cultural Center was awarded $900,000 toward expanding the Hindu Temple and Cultural Center near Madrid. The award represents 23%of the total project investment of $3,976,023.

The Putnam Museum and Science Center in Davenport was awarded $900,000 toward an expansion project. The award represents 23% of the total project investment of $3,965,449.

The African American Museum of Iowa in Cedar Rapids was awarded $800,000 toward major renovations at the museum and the reinstallation of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.-inspired “Trumpet” sculpture and garden. The award represents 17% of the total project investment of $4,827,339.

Awards made from the additional $15 million:

The Southeast Iowa Sports Commission was awarded $2,500,000 to develop the Ottumwa SportsPlex Development Project. The award represents 23% of the total project investment of $10,737,449.

The Midwest Old Settlers and Threshers Association was awarded $500,000 to improve and enhance existing campground facilities at the Midwest Old Settlers and Threshers Association grounds. The award represents 38% of the total project investment of $1,312,525.

Jasper County Conservation was awarded $550,000 for the Jasper County Conservation Environmental Education Center. The award represents 25% of the total project investment of $2,204,509.

The City of Denison was awarded $4,500,000 for the Crawford County Wellness and Recreation Center. The award represents 24% of the total project investment of $18,643,000.

America's First Great Dam Foundation was awarded $115,000 for the 1913 Hydro-Electric Turbine Visitor Center project in Keokuk. The award represents 38% of the total project investment of $303,325.

Wapello County was awarded $500,000 for improvements and enhancements to the Pioneer Ridge Park Campground. The award represents 40% of the total project investment of $1,260,975.

The Clayton County Conservation Board was awarded $345,000 to modernize and enhance the Osborne Welcome Center and Campground. The award represents 40% of the total project investment of $862,500.

The City of Treynor was awarded $800,000 for a multi-phase park and recreation project. The award represents 31% of the total project investment of $2,577,455.

Jefferson County was awarded $450,000 for improvements and enhancements to the Jefferson County Prairie Ridge Campground. The award represents 39% of the total project investment of $1,166,430.

The City of Dayton and the Dayton Community Club were awarded $800,000 for improvements to the Dayton Oak Park Trails Rodeo and Events Center. The award represents 34% of the total project investment of $2,372,703.

The City of Keosauqua was awarded $300,000 for the Lower Des Moines Water Trail. The award represents 32% of the total project investment of $950,249.

The Stanton Community Foundation and Montgomery County were awarded $850,000 for the Stanton Area Trail Project. The award represents 35% of the total project investment of $2,456,110.

Pearson Lakes Art Center in Okoboji was awarded $185,000 for the Art Smart Children’s Interactive Gallery project. The award represents 25% of the total project investment of $749,303.

Osceola County Conservation Board was awarded $200,000 to expand the Willow Creek Campground. The award represents 40% of the total project investment of $500,000.

The YMCA of Washington County was awarded $750,000 for an Indoor Aquatic Center. The award represents 10% of the total project investment of $7,689,975.

Marshall County Conservation was awarded $400,000 to improve and further develop the Green Castle Recreation Area Campground. The award represents 34% of the total project investment of $1,160,000.

The City of Muscatine was awarded $1,000,000 for the Muscatine Indoor Sports Complex. The award represents 25% of the total project investment of $4,000,000.

The City of Fort Madison was awarded $250,000 for the Fort Madison River Landing project. The award represents 11% of the total project investment of $2,256,317.

Funded projects must be completed by June 30, 2026. For more information on the Destination Iowa program, visit iowaeda.com/destination-iowa/ . Funding for this program has been made available through the federal American Rescue Plan Act.  

FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

ECICOG writes and manages a wide variety of federal, state and philanthropic grants. Are there funding opportunities waiting for you?

Economic Development

Iowa Arts Council Grant Programs

Due Spring and Fall The Iowa Arts Council empowers Iowa to build and sustain culturally vibrant communities by cultivating creativity, learning, and participation in the arts. Through IEDA the Council offers a multitude of grants to assist the development of your community in the arts, film and media, and historic preservation. A description of all available grant and further information can be found at the Iowa Arts and Culture website.

Union Pacific Foundation Local Grants

Due May 31st

Prioritizes funding for direct services and efforts that build the capacity of organizations focused on the following causes within our local operating communities: Safety, Workforce Development, Community Spaces, and Environmental Sustainability. For more information, visit the Union Pacific Website

Cultural Capacity Building Grant

Due May 15th

Cultural Capacity Building grants provide general operating support over a three-year period to eligible arts, cultural, and humanities organizations in Iowa. Organizations with annual operating expenses above $10,000 that demonstrate a commitment to enhancing their cultural and managerial excellence and community service are eligible to apply. Funding for the program is made possible by an annual appropriation from the Iowa Legislature to the Iowa Arts Council, which exists within the Iowa Economic Development Authority, and by the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. Learn more about the application process at the Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Website

Community Catalyst Building Remediation

Pre Application Due January 29, 2024

2025 Date to be Announced

The Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program assists communities with the redevelopment or rehabilitation of buildings to stimulate economic growth or reinvestment in the community. Funds available for the rehabilitation of one commercial building per community or two buildings with same ownership that are adjacent. Maximum grant award of $100,000 and the city must be the applicant and provide financial and/or in-kind resources. For more information contact Jessica Walker or visit the IEDA website here.

MidWestOne Foundation

Date to be  Announced.

The MidWestOne Foundation supports non-profit groups, institutions, schools, and organizations that enhance the cultural well-being of the communities MidWestOne serves. The grants predominately support capital and building campaigns that benefit the greater good over time. More than 75% of awarded grants are under $20,000. More information can be found on the MidWestOne website here.

AARP Community Challenge

Due March 6that 5 p.m. (ET)

The AARP Community Challenge provides small grants to fund "quick-action" projects that can help communities become more livable for people of all ages. Many winning projects support revitalizing communities, focus on diversity, inclusion and disparities, creating vibrant public places, improving the built and social environment, delivering a range of transportation and mobility options, and increasing civic engagement. Visit  the AARP website  for updates and to see projects funded last year.

Youth Garden Grant

Since 1982, the Youth Garden Grant has supported school and youth educational garden projects that enhance the quality of life for students and their communities. In 2024, fifty programs will receive award packages consisting of a cash prize and a variety of gardening tools and supplies. For more information, visit the kids gardening website.

Iowa Tourism Grant

Due September 2024, Opens August 2024

This program promotes tourism in Iowa by funding tourism-related marketing initiatives that benefit both local economies and the state's economy. Applications are available annually. For more information, visit IEDA’s  Travel Iowa  website. ​

CDBG - Water & Sewer

Due January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1

Funds awarded through this annual competitive program assist cities and counties with Water and Sewer projects. Contact Jennifer Fencl at [email protected] .

Community D evelopment Block Grants

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) announced the CDBG programs for FY24. Guidelines, scoring rubrics and informational webinars are available on the IEDA CDBG Website and details on certain CDBG programs are mentioned below:

Comprehensive Neighborhood Revitalization Planning Fund

Due November 22 , 2023

The goal of this program is to provide eco nomic opportu nities and facilities for people, especially those of low to moderate income. For more details contact [email protected]

Downtown Revitalization

Due November 22, 2023

This program supports façade improvements in blighted downtown districts. Contact Tom Gruis at [email protected]

Upper Story Housing Conversion

This opportunity provides up to $500,000 for the conversion of existing downtown building space into new residential units. Contact Tracey Achenbach at [email protected]

Meet in Iowa

Applications reviewed upon receipt during 2024 30 days before event. Events can only be during 2024

For more information, visit the  Meet In Iowa website .

IEDA Sports Tourism Grant

Due 90 days before tourism event

The Sports Tourism grant from the IEDA’s Enhance Iowa program will provide financial assistance for projects that market or promote sporting events in Iowa. Eligible sporting events include professional, collegiate and amateur level sporting events that occur in Iowa. Promotion/marketing activity can occur for up to two years. Cities, counties, Iowa not-for-profit economic development organizations or other Iowa not-for-profit organizations, including those that sponsor, or support sporting events are eligible to apply for assistance of up to 50% of the eligible cost to actively promote or market an eligible sporting event. Eligible applicants can apply jointly. For more information, visit the IEDA website.

National Trust Preservation Funds

Due Febuaru1st 2024

Grants from National Trust Preservation Funds (NTPF) are intended to encourage preservation at the local level by providing seed money for preservation projects. Visit the  National Trust For Historic Preservation website  to find additional information.

T-Mobile Hometown Grants

Due quarterly at the end of the month of March, June, September, and December.

T-Mobile is committing up to $25 million over the next 5 years to support small towns across America by funding community projects. The T-Mobile Hometown Grants program will help fund projects to build, rebuild, or refresh community spaces that help foster local connections such as a town-square pavilion, a historic building, an outdoor park, a ball field or a library. For more information,  visit the T-Mobile website .

Derelict Building Program

Due February 23, 2024

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources makes the Derelict Building Program available to Iowa towns of 5,000 or fewer residents to address n eglected commercial or public structures that have been vacant for at least 6 months. This program is for applicants who are seeking funding assistance with conducting asbestos inspections, asbestos abatement, structural engineering analysis, phase I and phase II site assessments, building deconstruction, and building renovation expenses. For more information, contact Alicia Presto or visit the DNR Website here .

Paint Iowa Beautiful

Due February 12

Through a partnership between the Keep Iowa Beautiful organization and Diamond Vogel Paint of Orange City, Iowa, groups can receive paint for community enhancement projects and parks. Thousands of gallons of paint have been donated to community groups through the Paint Iowa Beautiful program, which provides paint at no charge to a wide variety of public service projects throughout Iowa. For more information,  visit the Keep Iowa Beautiful website  or contact Jessica Walker .

Enhance Iowa-Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT)Program

Due Quarterly on the 15th in February, May, August and November  For more information,  visit the Enhance Iowa Website  

Funding for Transportation

State Recreational Trails Program

Due July 1st

The State Recreational Trails program (SRT) provides funds to establish recreational trails throughout Iowa for the use and enjoyment of the public. Federal, state, or local agencies can apply to fund the acquisition, construction, or improvement of public trails. Visit the Iowa Department of Transportation (DOT) website for more information. Contact Transportation Director Mary Rump with questions about the SRT program.

Pe ople for Bikes

Due October 31st

The People For Bikes Community Grant Program supports bicycle infrastructure projects and targeted advocacy initiatives that make it easier and safer for people of all ages and abilities to ride. Click here for more information.

Community Spark Grant

Due Febuary 1st

The League of American Bicyclists’ Bicycle Friendly America program awards organizations for projects and programs that spark change and catalyze a community’s ability to create places where bicycling is safer, easier, and more accessible. The desire is for organizations to propose projects that build Bicycle Friendly Communities and capacity for local leaders and influencers by uplifting the community and by creating inclusive coalitions that can shed new light on current issues. For more information, visit  The League of American Bicyclists website .

Sign Replacement Program

Application received throughout the year!

The purpose of this program is to replace existing damaged, worn, obsolete, or substandard signs and signposts for cities and counties. Maximum grant for cities and counties is $5,000 and $10,000 respectively. Visit the  DOT Website  or contact Transportation Director  Mary Rump  with questions about the program.

The Outride Fund

Round 8 to be announced.

The Outride Fund partners with community nonprofits to promote cycling as a tool to improve social, emotional, and cognitive health through grants that are focused on social, emotional, and cognitive health. Example projects include school-based cycling programs, trail construction projects in places where there is little trail access or for a specific community-based/school-based program, and educational programs . For more information contact Brenda Vavroch or the Outride Website.

Funding for Housing

ECIHTF Housing Programs

Applications accepted at any time

The East Central Iowa Housing Trust Fund (ECIHTF) accepts applications from local governments and qualified housing providers needing financial assistance to implement affordable housing projects that will address the mission of ECIHTF. Nonprofit, for-profit, and governmental entities are eligible to apply for funding assistance from ECIHTF for affordable housing projects located within the counties of Benton, Iowa, Jones, and Washington. For more information about ECIHTF and other ECICOG Housing programs,  visit the ECICOG website  or contact Housing Director Tracey Achenbach at  [email protected]

Environmental Services

Community Forestry Grant

Due March 1st

The Community Forestry Grant Program provides reimbursable grants for state and local government, schools, and volunteer organizations to be used to purchase and plant trees suitable to Iowa. Award recipients in counties impacted by the August 10, 2020 derecho will be awarded state infrastructure funds and bring a dollar-for-dollar local match. A total of $250,000 in funds are available. Award recipients will be reimbursed $500 to $5,000 to buy trees and materials. More information can be found at the  Iowa DNR website .

Iowa Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant

Due March 18th

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) opened a new funding program to assist those interested in implementing community-driven strategies to reduce energy use and fossil fuel emissions through innovative energy efficiency measures or renewable energy deployment. The  Iowa Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant  (EECBG) program is a competitive grant program to fund eligible local energy efficiency and renewable energy projects.  Visit the  Iowa Energy Office website  to find additional information or contact Environmental Services Director  Jennifer Fencl.

Unified Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grant Program Notice of Intent

No Due Date

Later this year, FEMA is expected to announce the Unified Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grant program for FY 2024, including Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC). Projects submitted for consideration must be consistent with the goals and objectives identified in Iowa’s State Hazard Mitigation Plan and the approved local mitigation plan for the jurisdiction in which the activity is located. The BRIC grant provides an opportunity for communities to initiate shovel-ready mitigation projects that provide protection against natural hazards. Applicants with proposed projects located in a FEMA-identified Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) are eligible for funding only if the jurisdiction in which the project is located is participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Contact Resource Specialist  Alicia Presto  for more information.

Solid Waste Alternative Program

January 2nd 2024 and July 1st 2024

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) works to reduce the amount of waste landfilled in Iowa through the Solid Waste Alternative Program (SWAP). SWAP provides financial assistance toward source reduction, recycling, and education projects such as installing waste reduction equipment, developing educational materials, or purchasing products with recycled content. Eligibility requirements can be found at the  Iowa DNR website . Contact  Alicia Presto  for more information.

Wildlife Habitat Grants

Due November 30th and May 31st Yearly

The DNR offers 75% cost-share funding to County Conservation Boards for the acquisition and development of lands for wildlife habitat. Lands must be open to hunting and trapping. Only those compatible activities such as fishing, hiking, nature study, cross-country skiing, etc., will be permitted. Grant applications for wildlife habitat projects are received two times a year, the last working day in May and in November. For more information, visit the  DNR website  or contact ECICOG Environmental Director  Jennifer Fencl .

Land and Water Conservation Fund

Due March 15 Yearly

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) Program provides match funds of 50% for outdoor recreation area development and acquisition. Popular projects in recent years have included skate parks, playgrounds, new and renovated swimming pools, sport complexes, campgrounds, and multipurpose trails. Iowa's cities and counties are eligible to participate. Visit the  Iowa DNR website  for more information. Contact Environmental Services Director Jennifer Fencl at  [email protected]  for additional assistance.

Alliant Energy Community Tree Planting Program

Due November 1st 2024

The utility provides grants for community-based, tree-planting projects - like parks, gateways, cemeteries, nature trails, libraries, nursing homes, schools and more. 

With latest Field of Dreams grant, stadium project's public funding now exceeds stated budget

The Field of Dreams stadium has received another state grant, pushing public funding at the Dyersville site to $57 million.

The Iowa Economic Development Authority's Enhance Iowa Board voted Thursday to give a $12 million sports tourism grant to the project, a 3,000-seat stadium at the site that provided the setting for the 1989 film "Field of Dreams." The funding follows several grants and other incentives provided over the last two years by state and federal agencies, as well as local governments in Dyersville and Dubuque.

The movie site hosted special Major League Baseball games on a temporary field the past two summers, drawing large TV audiences and celebrities like actor Kevin Costner, who starred in "Field of Dreams." In April 2022, the economic development group Go the Distance announced its intentions to turn the area into a destination for youth baseball and softball, with plans to spend $80 million on fields, dorms, walking trails, an amphitheater, a fieldhouse, an RV park and a 104-room hotel.

Separately, Go the Distance and local governments announced a plan to build the $52 million stadium at the site. The owner of the stadium will be This Iowa Ballpark, a nonprofit controlled by the city of Dyersville, Dubuque County, Travel Dubuque, the Dyersville Economic Development Corp. and Go The Distance.

More: Field of Dreams game viewership numbers down but still a big hit

A spokesperson for Go the Distance, which is helmed by MLB Hall of Famer Frank Thomas, did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the latest state grant. Asked about the total public funding for the project, Dyersville City Manager Mick Michel pointed out in an email Thursday that the nonprofit will own the stadium ― not the privately held Go the Distance.

Where is the money for Field of Dreams coming from?

The latest grant puts the total amount of public financing at the site at $57 million ― $5 million more than the stadium's stated budget. In addition to the $12 million awarded Thursday, public funding for the project includes:

• $13 million from a tax increment financing district created by the city of Dyersville
• $12.5 million from Destination Iowa, a tourism fund created by Gov. Kim Reynolds using federal COVID-19 relief funds.
• $11 million for sewer and water lines from the Water Infrastructure Fund, also created by Reynolds with COVID-19 relief money.
• $5 million from Dubuque County
• $1.5 million for water and sewer lines from the U.S. Economic Development Administration
• $1 million from the city of Dubuque
• $1 million from Dyersville

Dyersville Economic Development Corp. Executive Director Jacque Rahe said the previously awarded funding for water infrastructure does not count as public funds for the stadium. She said local officials have wanted to run water and sewer lines to the Field of Dreams site since 2012, before the stadium proposal.

More: Can't watch the big game? These lawmakers want to end Iowa's Major League Baseball blackouts

"Indirectly that is not part of this project, per se," she said. "It’s part of the overall development out at the site "

At the same time, the city of Dyersville listed the water infrastructure as a line item on the stadium's total budget last year in a grant application to the IEDA. In its January application for the sports tourism grant, the city no longer listed the water infrastructure on the budget.

The latest application estimated that local officials still need $5.5 million after the latest grant.

Sports economist: 'Like building an Olympics stadium without an Olympics'

Some economic development officials criticized the high percentage of public funding for the project last summer, when state officials mulled whether to award Destination Iowa funds for the stadium. JC Bradbury, a sports economist at Kennesaw State University in suburban Atlanta, said stadiums are poor public investments because residents simply move spending from one form of local entertainment to the stadium, rather than increasing total spending.

Bradbury added Thursday that he believes the Field of Dreams is an especially bad investment. While local officials say the stadium will draw corporate events and concerts, Bradbury said the remote location of Dyersville will make such events a challenge. He added that the project is unsteady because it relies heavily on one annual MLB game, which the league may not hold every year . MLB is not holding one this year because of the expected stadium construction.

More: Field of Dreams house, a former jail and a llama farmhouse among Iowa's unique vacation rentals

"This is a terrible place to put a stadium," Bradbury said. "It's maybe fine for a temporary venue, like they had going. But this is just like building an Olympics stadium without an Olympics there."

According to Dyersville's application for the sports tourism grant, builders will start construction in May. The stadium will open in August 2024. The city projects that the stadium will record a $3.2 million profit in its first five years.

Local elected officials have defended the use of public financing for the project. Dubuque Mayor Brad Cavanaugh last year called the site "magical."

More: Harry Caray hologram leads Field of Dreams game crowd through seventh-inning stretch

"We've got to find a way to draw people in and show them why we're so proud to live here," he told the Register in August. "And the Field of Dreams does that."

Tyler Jett is an investigative reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach him at [email protected] , 515-284-8215, or on Twitter at  @LetsJett. He also accepts encrypted messages at [email protected].

• OPPORTUNITY

Iowa Sports Tourism Grant

Iowa economic development authority.

Next deadline: Apr 1, 2024

Later deadlines: May 1, 2024, Jun 1, 2024, Jul 1, 2024, Aug 1, 2024, Sep 1, 2024, Oct 1, 2024, Nov 1, 2024, Dec 1, 2024, Jan 1, 2025, Feb 1, 2025, Mar 1, 2025, Apr 1, 2025, May 1, 2025

Grant amount: Unspecified amount

Fields of work: Tourism Sports & Athletics

Applicant type: Government Entity, Nonprofit

Funding uses: Project / Program, Education / Outreach

Location of project: Iowa

Location of residency: Iowa

Enhance Iowa's Sports Tourism Program will provide financial assistance for projects that market or promote sporting events in Iowa. Eligible sporting events include professional, collegiate and amateur level sporting events that occur in Iowa. Promotion/marketing activity can occur for up to two years.

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website .

Eligibility:

• Eligible applicants can apply jointly.
• A convention and visitors bureau (CVB) is an eligible applicant, unless the entity has received financial assistance under the Regional Sports Authority Program in the same fiscal year.
• Payments to vendors, advertising, equipment rental, promotional materials and production costs

Ineligibility:

• Bid fees; rights fees; solicitation efforts or lobbying fees; travel costs of applicant staff, meals, dining or alcoholic beverages; items that are purchased for resale; prizes given to participants; costs related to infrastructure or ongoing costs of a facility; and expenses incurred prior to the Enhance Iowa Board approval.

Iowa Economic Development Authority FUNDER

Other funding opportunities from iowa economic development authority.

• Enhance Iowa
• Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant

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This page was last reviewed November 02, 2023 and last updated November 02, 2023

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Brown County Board approves $3.2 million tourism funds for new ice rink, turf, sports facilities

GREEN BAY - Brown County Board voted to award $3.2 million in tourism grants to seven organizations ranging from $100,000 to $1 million.

The seven groups were selected out of 16 that applied for a part of the tourism grants that was provided by American Rescue Plan Act dollars. Those selected are:

• Impact Sports Academy  outdoor sports complex: $500,000
• NE Wisconsin Rugby Foundation Inc.  for rugby fields: $200,000
• Wisconsin United Football Club  to convert grass fields to turf: $1 million
• De Pere Select Soccer and the  Sports Emporium  for an indoor sports facility: $300,000
• Cornerstone Community Center  to add another ice rink: $1 million
• OneDenmark  to develop a community hub: $100,000
• Pulaski Area Chamber of Commerce  for a welcome/community center: $100,000

Wisconsin United FC and Cornerstone Community Center got the $1 million they both requested, while the amounts given to the five groups were less than what they applied for. The grant program was created to support local tourism amenities and help the industry recover from COVID-19 shutdowns.

All County Board members voted in support of the recommended groups. Members John Vander Leest and Salvador Sierra were not at the meeting.

The grant program selected groups based on which would be more likely to bring more people to the area to stay in hotels and short-term rentals.

"It was meant to bring more people to Brown County to participate in a variety of activities and put a little money in the coffers with heads in beds so we can pay for some of our wonderful facilities like the KI Center and Resch Center," said Pat Buckley, the County Board president.

Members of the organizations lined up to speak in support of their group at the start of the County Board meeting for nearly two hours.

The other projects that initially applied were:

• Develop the  Evergreen Theater
• Develop the  Green Bay Public Market
• Heritage Hill State Historical Park to relocate Curly Lambeau's cottage to the history park
• Children's Museum of Green Bay  expansion
• Definitely De Pere  for construction of the Nelson Family Pavilion in Voyageur Park
• Backyard Brew LLC  for an outdoor recreation, food and beverage business
• SAGE Inc.  to create a mobile art studio
• Wisconsin Doulas Association  to host a statewide conference
• Experience Greater Green Bay to build an escalator at the KI Convention Center

The nine applicants did not receive funds under Wednesday's vote but more grants could still be on their way.

County Board members Jessica Adams and Patrick Hopkins noted most of the chosen groups were sports-related and asked the Executive Committee to offer funds for Definitely De Pere and the Children's Museum of Green Bay. Board members Patrick Evans, Rich Schadewald, and Hopkins also showed support for funding the Children's Museum. Board member Tom Peters asked to consider additional funding for Backyard Brew.

"I want to make sure we're looking at a well-rounded county as we go on, not specifically all sports," Hopkins said.

County staff scored the applications in five areas and made a recommendation to the county's Executive Committee — made up of Scott Anthes, golf course superintendent; Jeff Flynt, county deputy executive; Matt Kriese, county parks director; Marty Piette, Austin Straubel International Airport director; and Cole Runge, county planning director — for consideration. The committee then made their own recommendations to the County Board for approval. Next, contracts will be made on how they specifically will spend the money.

The county needs to "obligate" the money to all projects by Dec. 31 and applicants must spend the money by Dec. 31, 2026. The total $3.2 million for the program has been allocated, but the Executive Committee is set to discuss possible additional funding requests from the board in its next meeting.

More: KI Convention Center does not have an escalator. Tourism group wants to change that.

Benita Mathew is a health and county reporter for the USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin. Contact her at [email protected].

State Funding Opportunities

State funding opportunities on broadband, community and economic development, housing, transportation, public facilities, water and storm sewer, and other infrastructure. 

Before applying for grants, ensure the following are up to date and are working:

• Active SAM.gov registration
• Know your Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number
• Active iowagrants.gov account: some state grants require it

Click on the section below to find current grant opportunities:

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Community, Economic Development and Housing

CDBG Community Facilities and Services Approximately $1.5 million in federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are available on an annual basis to cities and counties through the state of Iowa’s Community Facilities Fund. This annual competitive program offers grants to assist communities with a variety of projects including daycare facilities, senior centers, vocational workshops and other community services such as stormwater projects. Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

CDBG Sustainable Community Demonstration Sustainable Community Demonstration Project Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding is available to local governments on a competitive basis. The Sustainable Community Demonstration Project category provides grants to communities for green infrastructure-based stormwater projects and for a variety of projects and activities demonstrating comprehensive innovative approaches to support community sustainability. To date, the program has funded a demonstration district geothermal project in a community downtown and a demonstration streetscape project that integrated green infrastructure best management practices for stormwater, combined with LED street lights and a building façade master plan. Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

Emergency Community Catalyst Building Remediation Through the Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program, the Iowa Economic Development Authority will provide grants to communities for the redevelopment, rehabilitation or deconstruction of buildings to stimulate economic growth or reinvestment in the community. Strong applications will show the potential of catalytic economic growth in the community; improve appearances & safety; make use of underutilized property, exhibit appropriate design standards; and be well-funded. Economic growth may include the creation of additional jobs, growth of new or existing businesses, development of new housing units, increase property values, or potential population growth. Program Details

• Funding based on annual appropriation
• Maximum grants: $100,000
• 40% of funds will be awarded to cities with populations under 1,500
• A mandatory pre-application process will precede the official grant application
• Applications are by invitation only after approved pre-application. City must be the applicant
• Funds available for the rehabilitation of one commercial building per community or two buildings with same ownership that are adjacent to each other
• Deconstruction is allowed in dire situations or for safety reasons

Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

Nuisance/Abandoned Property Remediation Fund (This is a Loan and Not Grant Program) The Nuisance Property and Abandoned Building Remediation program provides financial assistance to communities to remediate residential nuisance buildings and structures. The administrative rules for the Nuisance Property and Abandoned Building Remediation program can be found in Iowa Administrative Code, section 216- Chapter 22. Please refer to these rules as necessary for more information regarding program requirements. The program has a maximum loan request of $500,000. IEDA will evaluate requests and approve loan amounts based on application scoring, ability to repay, and the amount of program funds available. Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

Opportunities and Threats Fund (CDBG) A portion of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds are reserved for communities facing an imminent threat to the public requiring immediate assistance. These funds also be used by communities seeing an opportunity to demonstrate sustainable community activities. As with all CDBG programs, the program’s goals is to provide opportunities for people, especially those of low- and moderate income. Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

CDBG 2019 Disaster Recovery – Buyout To provide for the acquisition of properties located in a floodplain or floodway, or in Disaster Risk Reduction Areas as designated by the grantee, to reduce the risk from future flooding. This opportunity is only open to applicants in Fremont, Harrison, and Mills counties. Deadline: Open Until Funds are Spent

Enhance Iowa Enhance Iowa provides grant funds to assist projects that provide recreational, cultural, entertainment and educational attractions, as well as sports tourism. The funds help communities create transformational projects that enhance the vitality of a region and the state overall. Funds must be primarily used for vertical infrastructure (land acquisition and construction, major renovation and major repair of buildings, all appurtenant structures, utilities, site development and recreational trails.)

• Project must be available to the general public for use
• At least 65% of the project funds must be raised

Deadline: Applications Accepted on a Quarterly Basis

Iowa Thriving Communities The Iowa Thriving Communities initiative will provide communities that are leveraging innovative methods to attract housing opportunities for their workforce with a chance to be recognized for their efforts. A limited number of communities will be awarded the designation, which comes with highly sought after scoring points for the Federal Housing Tax Credit and/or Workforce Housing Tax Credit programs. What Does This Mean?

• Developers will be highly incentivized to select a community that has been designated as an Iowa Thriving Community for a proposed development through the 2025 Federal Housing Tax Credit or Workforce Housing Tax Credit programs.
• Both programs accept applications from developers for specific housing development proposals through an intensive and competitive scoring process. The extra points awarded to a development through the Iowa Thriving Communities designation increase the likelihood that a project may be awarded credits.
• All cities in Iowa are eligible to apply for Iowa Thriving Community designation. IFA intends to award the designation to both rural and urban community applicants, so there is no minimum or maximum population limit. Because IFA intends to award more designations to rural communities than urban, we are providing the following definition of “rural” for informational purposes only: communities with a population of 20,000 or fewer and not contiguous to a city with a population of 40,000 or greater shall be considered “rural.” Both rural and urban cities are encouraged to apply!

Scoring Applications will be scored on the following six categories:

• Financial Support
• Iowa Thriving Community Attributes
• Planning and Assessment
• Proposed Neighborhood or Site for Housing Development
• Strategic Leadership and Partnerships
• Workforce Attraction and Retention

Deadline: May 15, 2024

Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) City Parks and Open Spaces Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) is a State of Iowa program that invests in, as its name implies, the enhancement and protection of the state’s natural and cultural resources. Iowa is blessed with a diverse array of natural and cultural resources and REAP is likewise diverse and far reaching. City Parks and Open Space This money is available to cities through competitive grants. Parkland expansion and multi-purpose recreation developments are typical projects funded under this REAP program. The DNR administers the city grant program. Deadline: August Annually

CDBG Comprehensive Neighborhood Revitalization Planning Grant This annual competitive program offers grants to assist communities for engaging a qualified professional consultant to prepare an action plan for targeted neighborhood revitalization /redevelopment. Such consultants must be procured in accordance with federal procurement standards. The maximum award for this program is $25,000, with local match of at least 25% of the requested amount is required. Cities/counties that receive these funds and subsequently prepare and submit completed plans to IEDA will be eligible to apply for a Comprehensive Neighborhood Development Activities grant during the next available funding cycle. Deadline: November Annually

CDBG Downtown Revitalization The Downtown Revitalization Fund provides grants to communities for activities contributing to comprehensive revitalization in historic city centers or core downtown areas. The program is primarily focused on building façade improvements to privately owned buildings in downtowns. Buildings with first floor residential use are prohibited from program participation. Work on roofs, for up to 40% of that building’s total costs, is also eligible. Front façades of buildings and side facades, when clearly visible from the travel lane of the adjacent public street are eligible. Rear facades are eligible only under unique or rare circumstances. Upper story residential units are subject to Lead Based Paint requirements. All incorporated cities and all counties in the State, except those designated as HUD entitlement areas, are eligible to apply for and receive funds under this program. The maximum grant award is $650,000. To apply for the maximum award, a minimum of 8 blighted buildings (addresses) must be proposed for improvements in the overall project. A minimum of 6 blighted buildings (addresses) must be proposed for improvement to apply for any lesser amount of funds. Local matching funds from the city/county, building owners or other sources are required to be competitive. Applications for funding are accepted and reviewed competitively with the best applications funded. Deadline: November Annually

CDBG Housing Upper Story Conversion This program funds activities limited to existing buildings to either rehabilitate un-occupiable units or convert existing spaces into new units. All spaces must be vacant and un-occupiable at the time of application and for a period of at least five (5) years. Applications for funding are competitive and must be received prior to the deadline. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The maximum award per project is $600,00; $550,000 for project and administrative costs and an optional $50,000 to assist with Green Streets activities. Projects choosing the optional Green Streets funding should plan to complete a design consultation prior to application. To do so, contact Jeff Geerts at (515) 348-6211 or [email protected] . Deadline: November Annually

Water Trail Planning and Mini Grants Provides money to water trail developers (county conservation boards, cities, non-profits) to support projects to establish water trails. Water trails enhance recreational experiences for all water recreation enthusiasts. Efforts often involve canoeists and kayakers. Deadline: December Annually

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Transportation

DOT/DNR Fund The intent of the DOT/DNR program is to enhance roadside beautification of primary system corridors with plant materials. To be eligible for funding, the site must be on a primary highway right-of-way, including primary highway extensions. The maximum award amount for the program is $100,000. Letters of request for funding are accepted year-round, and if the project is select, the project is funded in the order in which it was received. Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

Pedestrian Curb Ramp Program The program assists cities in complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on primary roads. To qualify for funding:

• The city must engineer and administer the project
• Improvements must involve a municipal extension of a primary road
• Curb ramps must meet ADA standards

Deadline: Applications Accepted Year Round

Railroad Revolving Loan and Grant (RRLG) Program The Railroad Revolving Loan and Grant (RRLG) Program is administered by the Office of Rail Transportation at the Iowa Department of Transportation. The program provides financial assistance to improve rail facilities that will create jobs, spur economic activity and improve the rail transportation system in Iowa in three separate categories:

• Targeted job creation
• Rail Network Improvement
• Rail Port Planning and Development

Grants require a 20 percent local match.

Deadline: Applications Accept Year-Round

Urban-State Traffic Engineering Program (U-STEP) The intent of the program is to solve traffic operation and safety problems on primary roads. To be eligible for the program, improvements must involve an extension of a primary municipal road. Two types of projects eligible for funding:

• Spot Improvements: limited to a single location
• Linear Improvements: span two or more intersections

City match is 45% of the construction cost with a maximum of $200,000 for spot improvements and $400,000 for linear Improvements. Deadline: Applications Accept Year-Round

Federal-Aid Surface Transportation Block Grant Program The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also referred to as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), allow many types of eligible projects for the use of federal funds to preserve and improve the condition and performance of any Federal-aid highway, bridge or tunnel project on any public road. (A Federal-aid Highway includes routes classified as a rural major collector or a collector street or any higher classification.) Surface Transportation Block Grant funds may also be used on pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and transit capital projects including intercity bus terminals. However, an RPA or MPO may have a more restrictive list of eligible projects, and they may approve only specific uses on an individual project basis. If interest in the grant contact your regional COG, and to find your COG Deadline: Varies, Check with your regional COG / MPO

Sign Replacement Program The purpose of the program is to replace damaged, worn out, obsolete or substandard signs and signposts for cities and counties in Iowa. The grant program is not for ordering new signs that do not exist at the location specified in the application.

• Application period begins January 1 of each year. 
• Only one grant application may be submitted per applicant year.
• Applications will be reviewed on a first-come-first-served basis
• An assessment of need and proper location and installation of posts will be the responsibility of the communities. 
• The Iowa Department of Transportation Sign Shop, or another source, may supply the signs/posts.

Annual grant maximum:

• Cities: $5,000

Deadline: January Annually

Revitalize Iowa’s Sound Economy (RISE) Program Projects funded by the RISE program promote economic development in Iowa through the establishment, construction, and improvement of roads and streets. The RISE program is targeted toward value-adding activities that feed new dollars into the economy and provide maximum economic impact to the state on primary or secondary roads, and city streets open for public use. While all counties and incorporated cities in Iowa are eligible to apply, funding is generally limited to industrial, manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and professional office developments, with few exceptions. Deadline: February 1 and October 1 Annually

Living Roadway Trust Fund Working through many partners in Iowa, the Living Roadway Trust Fund (LRTF) supports integrated roadside vegetation management (IRVM) programs; and educates the public on the benefits, use and care of roadside vegetation, including native plants. As examples, grants can be awarded for specialized equipment to accomplish IRVM operations; roadside plantings that demonstrate the best management practices of IRVM; inventories of roadside vegetation; and research, education, and public awareness concerning IRVM issues. The LRTF’s funding guidelines are updated for each Fiscal Year’s grant round and detail what grants can be written for and the specific match requirements. Deadline: June Annually

Highway-Railroad Crossing Safety Program The crossing safety program participates in the cost of safety improvements at public highway-railroad grade crossings. These funds are used to install new crossing signal devices, to upgrade existing signals, and to provide low-cost improvements; such as increased sight distance, widened crossings, increased signal lens size, or crossing closures. However, the available funding allows only a limited number of safety improvements each year. Deadline: July Annually

Federal and State Recreational Trails State Trails: The state recreational trails program (SRT) provides funds to establish recreational trails throughout Iowa for the use, enjoyment and participation of the public. The program is restricted to the acquisition, construction or improvement of recreational trails open for public use or trails which will be dedicated public use upon completion. Federal Trails: The Federal Recreational Trails program (FRT) provides grant funding for trails and trail-related projects. Funds are intended for recreational trails. They may not be used to improve roads for general passenger vehicle use or to provide shoulders or sidewalks along roads. Deadline: July Annually

Traffic Safety Improvement Program (TSIP) The intent of the Traffic Safety Improvement Program is to distribute funds for roadway safety improvements, traffic control devices, studies, and outreach. TSIP provides safety funds to cities in three separate categories:

• Site-specific  – construction or improvement of traffic safety and operations at a specific site or corridor with a crash history
• Traffic control devices  – purchase of materials for installation of new traffic control devices, such as signs, signals or pavement markings; or replacement of obsolete signs or signals
• Studies and Outreach  – transportation safety studies and outreach, such as signing or pavement marking research, driver education/information, work zone safety, and crash data analysis improvements.

Deadline: August Annually

Highway Bridge Programs for Cities and Counties The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) added the Bridge Formula Program (BFP), which sets aside funding for bridge replacement, rehabilitation, preservation, protection, and construction projects. Additionally, Congress has occasionally apportioned bridge funding through the Highway Infrastructure Program for Bridge Replacement and Rehabilitation. The purpose of these programs is to reduce the number of “Poor” bridges (formerly known as Structurally Deficient (SD) and Functionally Obsolete (FO) bridges) on the local jurisdiction roadway systems. Cities may request to add a bridge to the City Bridge Candidate List at any time, but the deadline for the next Federal Fiscal Year’s funding is October 1. Such requests shall be submitted in writing on city letterhead, or via email with a city official’s signature block, to the Iowa DOT Local Systems Bureau. Any highway bridge within the corporate limits, whether in whole or in part, may be submitted for consideration. This includes bridges on Farm-to-Market extensions within the city limits of cities less than 500 population. Deadline: October 1 Annually

Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) The Transportation Alternatives Set-Aside (TA Set-Aside or TAP) Program is a new iteration of the former Transportation Enhancements (later Transportation Alternatives) program that has been in existence since 1991. The most recent transportation authorization act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), was enacted in 2021. Implementation of this act formally allows Iowa DOT to suballocate funds to Iowa’s Metropolitan Planning Organizations (MPOs) and Regional Planning Affiliations (RPAs) for competitive selection of projects according to federal and state guidance. Eligible project activities continue to include a variety of smaller-scale transportation projects such as pedestrian and bicycle facilities, recreational trails, safe routes to school projects, and community improvements such as historic preservation, vegetation management, and some environmental mitigation related to storm water and habitat connectivity. Deadline: November Annually

Public Facilities

Library Space Utilization Grant The Library Space Utilization Grant provides Iowa public libraries subgrants for consulting services on better utilization of the  existing  library space. These grants reimburse fees for professional advice from impartial consultants who provide guidance and recommendations to library directors, city officials and the community about use of existing space. Grants of up to $3,000 will be awarded as funds are available. A library may only receive one library utilization grant. Grants may be requested for the following consultation services:

• Space Needs Assessment:  Consultant will help make the best use of the current space in the library, and determine the area needed for the library’s programs and services.
• Building Program Review:  Consultant will assist the library in writing and/or reviewing the library’s building program statement.
• ADA Compliance Evaluation and Planning:  Consultant will advise on the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for libraries.

Deadline: March 31, 2024

Water, Sewer, Storm Sewer and Electrical Infrastructure

Energy Infrastructure Revolving Loan Program (Loan Program Only) Examples of eligible costs include, but are not limited to:

• Real and personal property comprising a project
• Materials and equipment required for necessary site preparation, construction, and installation of a project
• Labor for site preparation, construction, and installation of a project.
• Costs associated with maintenance, operation, or repair of a project during the term of the loan.

The minimum loan amount is $50,000 and the maximum is $2.5 million. An applicant may apply for a loan for up to 75% of the total costs of the project. Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

SRF Planning and Design Loan Planning & Design Loans cover costs incurred in the planning and design phase of a water infrastructure project. These loans have 0 percent interest for up to three years and require no initiation or servicing fees. In addition, there is no minimum or maximum loan amount. Eligible costs include engineering fees, archaeological surveys, environmental or geological studies, and costs related to project plan preparation. The loans may be rolled into a State Revolving Fund (SRF) construction loan or can be repaid when permanent financing is committed. The project planning and design costs must be directly related to the proposed wastewater, storm water or drinking water projects. Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

State Revolving Fund Loan and Principal Forgiveness Low Interest loans and potential principal low forgiveness to disadvantaged communities. Factors that determine if a community is eligible for principal forgiveness include how many project priority points are awarded, socioeconomic assessment score, and household burden indicators.  Deadline: Applications Accepted Year-Round

CDBG Water & Sewer Fund Funds awarded through this annual competitive program assist cities and counties with projects such as sanitary sewer system improvements, water system improvements, water and wastewater treatment facility projects, storm sewer projects related to sanitary sewer system improvements and rural water connections. Deadline: Applications Accepted on a Quarterly Basis

Public Safety

Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) Indirect Cost Highway Safety Grants The mission of the GTSB is to identify traffic safety issues and, through partnerships with city, county, state and local organizations, develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa’s roadways using federally funded grants to improve traffic safety in the State of Iowa. Traffic safety projects are funded through one-year contracts between the GTSB and the awarded agency. Funds are only provided through reimbursements after project costs are incurred. Claims are usually submitted and reimbursed monthly.

To determine which grant funded project an agency is awarded will be contingent on the agency’s funding application received by the GTSB and a review of the state’s problem identification. The following are examples of traffic safety projects eligible for grant funds:

• Data Program Improvements to Core Highway Safety Databases
• Motorcycle Safety
• Older Driver Safety
• Outreach & Education
• Prevention & Intervention
• Roadway Safety
• Traffic Safety Research, Planning, and Data Integration
• Vulnerable Users – Bicycle & Pedestrian Safety
• Youth Programs

Deadline: March 29, 2024

2024 Project Safe Neighborhood – Northern District Funding for this opportunity is available through Iowa’s Project Safe Neighborhoods federal grant award. The funding provides financial assistance is available to promote safe neighborhoods through a sustained reduction in violent crime, including, but not limited to, addressing criminal gangs and the felonious possession and use of firearms. The PSN program supports coordination, cooperation, and partnerships of local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies, and the communities they serve in a unified approach coordinated with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Approximately $80,000 will be committed in the Northern District, and applications serving Black Hawk County/Waterloo will receive priority consideration in the review process. Priority funding will be provided to projects which employ strategies that positively affect these broadly targeted activities:

• Equipment, services and technology for law enforcement
• Youth-serving organizations/agencies toward the operation/support of prevention programming, including critical thinking classes, mentoring initiatives and/or other programs aimed at promoting protective factors and positive youth development
• Mental health/social services assistance for at-risk individuals
• Crime prevention training, de-escalation training, and community policing training for law enforcement officers
• Gang task forces including enforcement and prevention activities

Deadline: April 15, 2024

2024 Project Safe Neighborhood – Southern District Funding for this opportunity is available through Iowa’s Project Safe Neighborhoods federal grant award. The funding provides financial assistance is available to promote safe neighborhoods through a sustained reduction in violent crime, including, but not limited to, addressing criminal gangs and the felonious possession and use of firearms. The PSN program supports coordination, cooperation, and partnerships of local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies, and the communities they serve in a unified approach coordinated with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Approximately $102,000 will be committed in the Southern District, and applications serving Scott County/Davenport and Polk County/Des Moines will receive priority consideration in the review process. Priority funding will be provided to projects which employ strategies that positively affect these broadly targeted activities:

• Violent crime project or program that has long-term effects
• Violent crime project or program that focuses upon a specific geographical location that has demonstrated an extraordinary amount of gun violence in comparison to the rest of the district
• Violent crime project or program that has the greatest geographical effect. (beneficial for multiple law enforcement jurisdictions)
• Project or programs which provide effective violent crime prevention. Crime prevention training, de-escalation training

Other Opportunities

Solid Waste Alternatives Program (SWAP) The Solid Waste Alternatives Program (SWAP) works to reduce the amount of solid waste generated and landfilled in Iowa. Through a competitive process, financial assistance is available for a variety of projects, including source reduction, recycling, and education. Funds can be used for such items as:

• Waste reduction equipment and installation
• Recycling, collection, processing, or hauling equipment (including installation)
• Development, printing and distribution of educational materials
• Planning and implementation of educational forums, workshops, etc.
• Purchase and installation of recycled content products
• Salaries directly related to implementation and operation of the project

Deadline: January and July Annually

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Belmont County Tourism fills ‘GAPs’ for local nonprofits

Photo by Gage Vota Eric Gay, director of the St. Clairsville Parks and Recreation department, receives a GAP Grant award from Belmont County Tourism Executive Director Jackee Pugh.

ST . CLAIRSVILLE – The Belmont County Tourism Council Board of Directors awarded nearly $120,000 to just over 40 local nonprofit organizations Wednesday.

The Grant Assistance Program awards are called “GAP grants” because they are designed to help “fill in the gap” by financially assisting nonprofit organizations with projects, events, improvements or maintenance to tourist or historical sites. The GAP Grant is an annual initiative that has been going strong for over a decade, according to tourism Executive Director Jackee Pugh. The cycle of application opens in January, and the board awards the grants at the end of March.

“We are blessed to be able to offer financial support to so many nonprofits that impact tourism in Belmont County,” Pugh said. “This year we were able to award a little bit more funding to our museums and historic landmarks so that they could do some capital improvements.”

Some of the local nonprofits that were awarded the grants were the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival, St. Clairsville Parks and Recreation Department, Arc of Ohio, Belmont County Historical Society, Ohio National Road Association, Bellaire Public Library and many more. First-time applicant Olney Friends School is looking to do birding on its Barnesville campus. Staff and students plan on doing research about the different birds that are present. The school plans on using the grant money to create a habitat and have events to show the public different bird species.

“It really is a fun time for our office, because we get to find out about all of the great stuff people in the county are doing and then learn how to partner with them,” Pugh said of GAP Grant season.

The GAP initiative is able to help a few of the smaller fairs and festivals as well, such as Flushing Heritage Days and the Hollaway Old Timers Baseball Association. The tourism council board is “very optimistic about the future of Belmont County and looking forward to all upcoming events happening right here, in friendly, beautiful, Belmont County,” according to a tourism council press release.

“The GAP funding is such an incredible thing that Belmont County Tourism does,” Eric Gay, St. Clairsville Parks and Recreation director, said.

Gay also said his department uses the grant each year to be able to host its summer concert series. The grant allows it to pay the artists to perform while keeping the event free to the public.

The Underground Railroad Museum was another recipient of a grant. Director Kristina Estle said the museum will use the funding for its Juneteenth Celebration and Fundraiser.

“This year with the Belmont County Tourism Council’s awarded grant funding we plan to have an unforgettable event with Goree Drum and Dance group out of Columbus, a taste of Africa provided by a local caterer and a presentation on the history of enslavement in the Ohio Valley,” Estle said.

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Park City Chamber puts out call for grant review committee members

News News | Mar 28, 2024

The Park City Chamber and Visitors Bureau is looking for grant review committee members for its Sustainable Tourism Grant.

The Sustainable Tourism Grant seeks to fund projects that support all aspects of sustainable tourism, such as community needs, environmental health and economic prosperity.

The review committee will help decide which grant applications qualify for grant funding.

Committee members will be responsible for reviewing all Sustainable Tourism Grant applications, scoring them based on a standardized rubric and participating in a two-hour meeting to agree on a final recommendation.

The committee is expected to be active in May.

Support Local Journalism

If you’d like to be considered for this committee appointment, please email  [email protected]  with the following information by April 15: 

• The nature of your connection to Park City (business owner, resident, frontline worker, etc.)
• How you see sustainable tourism at work in the greater Park City area

Mar 28, 2024

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Grant program launched to support sustainable tourism initiatives across Summit County

By logan stefanich, ksl.com | posted - march 28, 2024 at 4:33 p.m., the park city chamber of commerce and visitors bureau is launching a second-annual grant program to help fund programs and initiatives that will support summit county's sustainable tourism plan. (jeffrey d. allred, deseret news).

Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes

PARK CITY — The Park City Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau is, for the second year, launching a grant program for programs and initiatives that support sustainable tourism in the area.

Summit County's Sustainable Tourism Plan was developed in 2022 and this is the second year officials have announced funding for it.

"We created a sustainable tourism plan for the community of Park City and Summit County, and it's basically a long-range plan that's designed to balance a thriving tourism economy with all of the social and environmental pressures that come along with it; and making sure we're supporting the social and environmental needs of an area that does have such a robust tourism economy," said Morgan Mingle, director of sustainable tourism at Park City Chamber and Visitors Bureau.

The grant program allows applicants to request up to $30,000 to fund eligible sustainable tourism projects. Mingle said the rationale behind the grant is to support small businesses and departments that are part of larger businesses, to increase sustainability practices or create new initiatives.

These projects and initiatives across the tourism industry can include community-building festivals and events, outdoor recreation, businesses and business districts.

Mingle said one example from the program last year was the development of a website showing the status of trails throughout Summit County.

"I think locals had a hard time of knowing what organization was managing what trail and what website you should go to if you wanted to check those conditions, and now they're all feeding into the backend of one website. And I think it's a really great example of stepping back, recognizing that the way we were communicating that information might've been confusing and just cutting through the noise and saying 'OK, let's all work together, let's build one website that we can send people to,'" Mingle said.

In total, last year's grant awarded 24 recipients (of 42 applicants) with funding for sustainable tourism projects.

The Park City Chamber and Visitors Bureau appoints a committee to vet applications and score the submissions based on a standardized rubric. Grants are awarded based on application scores, availability of grant funding and final approval from the Park City Chamber and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors.

Aside from environmental sustainability, Mingle said the grant is also focused on funding social sustainability initiatives and elevating local culture. Last year's grant helped fund the Latino Arts Festival and a film series hosted by Park City Film highlighting the culture of eastern Summit County.

"Protecting and caring for our natural environment is essential for promoting sustainable outdoor recreation, ensuring the long-term resilience of our community and economy," said Jennifer Wesselhoff, president and CEO at the Park City Chamber and Visitors Bureau. "Through the Sustainable Tourism Grant, qualifying organizations are given the opportunity to embark on a transformative journey toward a more mindful and sustainable approach to tourism, thus making sustainable tourism efforts a communitywide effort."

Mingle said the chamber encourages small- and medium-sized businesses, as well as nonprofit organizations, to apply for the grant.

Applications for the grant are now open and will close on April 24. Applications can be submitted here.

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Johnson County grant sprouts opportunity for small farmers

For Iowa City resident David Lam and his family, a Johnson County grant program that aims to increase access to fresh food made “a small dream come true.”

David Lam’s parents, Nam and Anna Lam, moved to Iowa from Vietnam; his father a refugee, and his mother an immigrant.

“When they first came to the U.S., they didn’t know how to eat the things that we had here in Iowa,” David Lam said.

Craving their home country’s produce, the Lams started a backyard garden and expanded it in 2008 to start selling their produce, plants, and food as Nam and Anna’s Garden at the Iowa City Farmers Market.

“We have a lot of our international community here, students and people who are immigrants or refugees that we’re able to cater to,” David Lam said. “It’s like memories of home. You have vegetables and things that you can’t find that you grew up with. That’s our market.”

The Lams are one of several recipients of Johnson County’s Food and Farm Grant Program, which was created in 2020 to address the impact of the pandemic on local food systems. In the program’s most recent cycle, the county awarded around $285,000 to 15 applicants, according to the program’s website.

The Lam family used the funding they received in 2023 to purchase a greenhouse, which David Lam said is essential to nurture Vietnamese crops in Iowa’s cold climate.

“My parents have wanted a greenhouse for a long time, but we don’t make enough from vending at the market to justify building and maintaining it,” David Lam said. “The grant made it possible for us to expand the things that we’re going to offer to the community.”

Responding to a recommendation from the Food Policy Council , Johnson County created the grant program, which is funded through the American Rescue Plan Act , or ARPA, in cycles, providing $350,000 for this current cycle.

Linn County has a similar program that awarded $250,000 in ARPA funding to its local growers to increase food security.

“We know with COVID there was complete supply chain breakdown,” said Cassidy Beamer, a local food assistant for the Johnson County Board of Supervisors. “It became very evident how important it is to build food system resiliency.”

This grant, Beamer said, was the first of its kind for Johnson County. Based on the guidelines from the ARPA, applications were open to small food businesses as well as nonprofit organizations. Twenty small businesses and four nonprofit organizations have received funding so far.

“The beauty of this grant is that it’s a great resource for businesses to self-determine what’s limiting their capacity and request funds to address that need,” Beamer said, emphasizing that the nonprofits that received funding used it to directly benefit farmers.

The Global Food Project , a nonprofit founded in 2016 that provides Johnson County residents, primarily immigrant families, with garden plots at the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm , received the grant.

The organization offers smaller-sized plots for families as well as larger “market plots” for participants interested in growing produce at a large enough scale to vend at the farmer’s market. With the funding they received in 2023, the organization purchased a trailer to assist with market deliveries.

“Rather than having each of them buy a vehicle that can deliver produce, which is unrealistic, we just have one trailer so we can do collective deliveries,” Global Food Project Manager Will Kapp said.

Global Food Project also allocated funding to directly support individual growers.

RELATED : Iowa City locals pass down Farmers Market tradition for 50 seasons

“I gave $1,000 in supplies to all the people who were on market plots this year to start up,” Kapp said.

Applications for the third round of funding are available until April 12. Beyond this round, the future of the grant is unknown.

“We’ll be using all the funds we have available in this round. So there’s no other funding secured in the future,” Beamer said. “But we feel motivated to find creative ways to fund this program because it’s filled a huge need for more capital in our community, and we think the impacts could be even more great.”

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Alabama topples North Carolina to reach March Madness Elite Eight as first No. 1 seed falls

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LOS ANGELES — Alabama’s mantra for this NCAA Tournament is next — as in the next play, next game, next everything. What’s next for the Crimson Tide is the second Elite Eight in school history.

Grant Nelson converted a go-ahead three-point play with 38 seconds remaining, and Alabama became the first team in this year’s tournament to oust a No. 1 seed, beating North Carolina 89-87 on Thursday night.

“These guys are bringing their competitive side out at the right time,” Tide coach Nate Oats said. “You want to be peaking in March and we’re peaking in March.”

Nelson finished with a season-high 24 points, 19 in the second half, and he blocked RJ Davis’ attempt at a tying layup after giving Alabama the lead.

He had 12 rebounds and five blocks.

“I thought I had an advantage on Nelson and he was able to swat it,” Davis said.

Rylan Griffen added 19 points, tying his career high with five 3-pointers, and Aaron Estrada also scored 19 for the fourth-seeded Crimson Tide (24-11).

The Tide face sixth-seeded Clemson on Saturday for a berth in the Final Four.

The Tigers defeated second-seeded Arizona 77-72 in the first semifinal at Crypto.com Arena.

“We’ve been working for this all season but this isn’t our end goal,” said Nelson, a 6-foot-11 senior who played at North Dakota State his first three years.

Mark Sears, Alabama’s leading scorer this season, finished with 18 points after making just two field goals in the second half when Nelson dominated.

“I was very proud of him,” Sears said. “He was struggling the first two games. To see him carry us, it was very amazing.”

After Nelson blocked Davis’ shot with 25 seconds left, Davis furiously dribbled around before missing a layup and the Tar Heels got called for a shot-clock violation with 8 seconds left.

They were forced to foul, sending Nelson to the line. He calmly made both for an 89-85 lead.

Armando Bacot scored inside with 1 second left, leaving North Carolina trailing 89-87.

The Tar Heels fouled Nelson again with 0.9 seconds left.

He missed both and time expired on the blueblood Tar Heels, who own six national championships.

“I’m definitely hurt. I think we all are a little shocked,” Bacot said. “Felt like we hand a chance to win the national championship this year.”

Bacot finished with 19 points and 12 rebounds in his final game for UNC (29-8).

Cormac Ryan had 17 points and made five 3-pointers and Davis had 16 points.

Davis was 4 of 20 from the floor and missed all nine of his 3-point attempts.

“I just wasn’t good enough, missed a lot of easy shots that I normally make,” Davis said, his voice trailing off as he lowered his head and rubbed his eyes.

At times, UNC coach Hubert Davis looked like he was still playing for his alma mater, where he starred from 1988-92 under Hall of Famer Dean Smith.

Davis dashed up and down the sideline in his white sneakers, gesturing and yelling and taking his glasses on and off as he lived each play through his team.

“We had good looks that we can make that we just missed,” Davis said. “Sometimes your shots just don’t go in and stinks when it doesn’t. Just came at a really wrong time.”

Alabama trailed 54-46 at halftime.

Nelson and Sam Walters combined to score nine of Alabama’s first 13 points to take a 59-57 lead.

The Tar Heels struggled early when big man Bacot picked up his third foul five minutes in, but they tied it at 59-all on a basket by Harrison Ingram.

Nelson, Estrada and Griffen teamed to score 21 of Alabama’s next 23 points that produced an 82-77 lead.

Nelson ran off seven in a row, capped by a 3-pointer.

Carolina scored eight in a row, including six straight by Davis, to take its last lead, 85-82.

The Tar Heels opened the game on a 19-9 run for their largest lead of a half in which there were eight ties and seven lead changes.

Sears went on a tear, scoring nine points — hitting a 3-pointer and turning to blow a kiss to the crowd — to help the Tide lead 39-34.

North Carolina regained control with a 20-7 spurt to end the half ahead 54-46.

Ryan and Ingram had two 3-pointers each and Bacot dunked, slithered around Mohamed Wague for a layup and scored off his own steal.

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