The following are deadlines for popular grants our members and associated organizations should consider. The SICOG due date is a date when the applicant should have all relevant information to SICOG to finish the application on time. SICOG has the staff and experience to assist our communities submitting the best possible applications for these funds.
There are many other sources, so if you have a project, please contact us.
| Source/Program |
Funding Uses |
SICOG Due Date |
| FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program |
Hazard mitigation plans and projects, including tornado safe rooms, building and utility retrofits, minor flood control projects, elevations and relocations of buildings in flood hazard areas and storm water management projects (Eligible: local governments and some nonprofits) |
Floating (NOIs as soon as possible) |
| Rural Innovation Grant Program |
Up to $50,000 grants for creative, non-traditional ideas that focus on current issues and challenges facing rural communities (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 |
| Rural Scale-Up Grant Program |
Provides up to $20,000 for the replication and scale-up/spread of creative solutions to address current issues and challenges facing rural communities (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 |
| Rural Enrichment Program |
Provides up to $20,000 to support small quality of life projects that create meaningful results in rural communities (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 |
| Rural Housing Assessment Grant Program |
Provides $10,000 to support the use of certain housing data and rural community efforts to this data and support changes to development codes, incentives, etc., in partnership with ISU Extension (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 |
| Rural Child Care Market Study Grant Program |
Provides up to $10,000 to support the use of data and analysis to determine childcare needs and create solutions (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 |
| Rural Leadership Bootcamp Grant |
Provides training, mentorship, and $1,000 in grant funds to initiate leadership programs (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 |
| Wellmark Foundation MATCH Grants |
Up to $100,000 Safe and healthy environments for people to be active (trails, parks, playgrounds, other recreational projects) and up to $50,000 for access to healthy foods (food programs, community gardens, etc.) (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 for access to food |
| USDA Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge |
Provides funds to planning support, technical assistance, and training to communities to foster placemaking activities in rural communities (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
August 15 |
| Main Street Challenge Grant |
Grant for building renovation or other project implementation that improves the downtown area (Eligible; Main Street Iowa communities). |
August 15 |
| RISE Local Development Grant |
Funding to provide road/street access to expand business opportunities (Eligible: local governments). |
August 15 |
| Certified Local Government Program |
Program that funds projects related to historic preservation, such as National Register nominations, education projects, surveys, planning for preservation, and other planning projects (Eligible: recognized Certified Local Governments, which are registered local governments with active historic preservation commissions). |
August 15 |
| CDBG Water and Sewer Program |
Water and wastewater capital improvements: plants, mains, lagoons, pumps, towers, etc. (Eligible: local governments) |
August 15 (next quarterly round) |
| Main Street Challenge Grant |
Grants for building renovations and restorations in downtown areas of eligible communities (Eligible: Main Street Iowa Communities in good standing). |
August 15 |
| Iowa DOT Federal Recreational Trails Grant |
Establish recreational trails throughout Iowa. 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. This grant is very competitive, so SICOG is interested in major projects, especially those that connect one trail to another or connect two communities or destinations (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
September 1 |
| Water Recreation Access Cost-Share Program |
IDNR program that provides funds for constructing water access amenities, such as boat docks and ramps, jetties, kayak launches, etc. (Eligible: local governments) |
September 1 |
| IDNR Water Recreation Access Cost-share Program |
Provides funds for constructing and improving boat access facilities to Iowa’s lakes and streams. Projects can include boat launching ramps, docks, and related infrastructure (Eligible: local governments) |
September 1 |
| IDNR Solid Waste Alternatives Program |
Program to encourage landfill alternatives – recycling, diversion, new technologies, new manufacturing processes, etc. (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits) |
September 1 |
| Statewide Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) |
Provides IDOT funding for transportation-related projects that reduce auto transportation, such as trail improvements, cycling facilities, improvements to transportation corridors, wayfinding projects, and others. This grant is specifically for statewide impact projects or that cross multiple county boundaries. |
September 10 |
| IEDA Destination Iowa Program |
Destination Iowa is an ARPA $100 million pool of funds that consists of four funding programs. These are: Economically Significant Development Fund, Outdoor Recreation Fund, Tourism Fund, and Creative Placemaking Fund. The first three funds are more traditional in nature and include capital projects that address these three areas. The creative placemaking pool funds a small number of very large placemaking projects on a long-term basis (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits, with some exceptions). |
September 15 |
| IEDA Enhance Iowa Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Grant |
Funds for capital projects, such as trails, libraries, community centers, pavilions, entertainment venues, museums, recreational facilities, and more (Eligible: local governments and certain nonprofits). |
November 1 (if funds remain after July round) |
| Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program |
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 (Eligible: local governments who apply on behalf of private property owners). |
November 30 |
| Theater Catalyst Grant |
Provides IEDA Catalyst Grants specifically to renovate and revitalize former or operating theaters, including movie and live show theaters. This is a specific set-aside to address the detrimental impacts of COVID and a changing economy ((Eligible: local governments who apply on behalf of private property owners). |
January 15, 2022 |
CDBG Community Facilities and
Services |
This annual competitive program offers grants to assist communities for a variety of projects including day care facilities, senior centers, vocational workshops and other community services such as storm water projects. (Eligible: local governments) |
Ongoing, until funds run out |
| Iowa Historic Preservation Tax Credits – small projects |
Up to 25% of project cost in the form of a State tax credit to offset the costs of the building rehabilitation or restoration. Project must affect a designated historic building on the National Register of Historic Places. Projects can have eligible costs up to $750,000 (Eligible: property owners – governments can partner to mobilize the project). |
Ongoing |
| ITC/ IRDC "Power of Connection" Community Grant Program |
Grants up to $5,000 for capacity building, strategic planning, studies or assessments for a variety of community programs and issues (Eligibility: rural communities) |
Ongoing |
| Highway Safety Improvement |
Provides grants for low-cost, systematic safety improvements in the $10,000/mile range, focusing on lane departure crashes. (Eligible: local governments) |
Ongoing |
Traffic Engineering Assistance
Program (TEAP) |
Provides 100 hours of engineering assistance for operations and traffic safety issues. (Eligible: local governments) |
Ongoing |
As always, SICOG provides this un-exhaustive list of grants to generate ideas about possible projects and provide funding guidance. Grant funding sources are increasingly interested in creative solutions to problems and many are willing to support not just construction but also operations. If your community has a problem that outside funding might address, then please contact your SICOG office. We would be glad to help and can attend a local meeting at no cost to discuss the project or idea.
Jeremy Rounds and Terry Niestadt
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OBSERVATIONS FROM THE CORNER OFFICE
With the hiring of our new planner, Terry Niestadt, we are kicking off August with a full staff. We are excited to welcome Terry and introduce him around the community. Please welcome him to southwest Iowa. As always, Southern Iowa Council of Governments is here to serve our member communities, counties, and those working to improve the region.
Today’s observation is about an “Innovation Index”. As communities, counties and regions, we are being ranked all the time. One of the newer tools being utilized is an innovation index. It looks at several community factors such as educational attainment and knowledge base; venture capital and investing in futures; connectivity and broadband, proprietorship and productivity; as well as net migration. Compared to other regions in the State, the SICOG Region ranks above many others. More of that information will be rolled out in the next several months. Today, I was thinking, “What is my innovation index as a person?” and decided to challenge you to maybe do the same.
Knowledge Creation/Educational Attainment – I didn’t consider what level of schooling I completed, nor what grades, degrees, certificates, awards I have received. Instead how am I adding to the knowledge base of others – do I share my know-how and ideas, with coworkers? Do I make respectful suggestions to employers/committees on how things might work better, faster, or produce more community goodwill? Do I share my gifts and talents with younger or older people in the community? Do I ask others to teach me something, show me how to do something in a different way or help me understand another’s thought process?
Establishment Foundation/Dynamics – Do I appreciate the community in which I live? Do I embrace, encourage, and perhaps participate in the positive actions of others who are working in the community. Do I bring a positive attitude to my interactions with businesses, government, visitors, or other strangers on the street? Do I put forth a welcoming, interested, and engaging attitude within the core group of friends and committees I hang with?
Venture Capital/Investing in Future – While I don’t have students in the local school system/daycares/little leagues/community theaters/lemonade stands/4-H clubs/ etc.; do I support our youth? Do I go watch the school play or concert? Do I help soccer or softball? Do I donate for a youth camp trip or buy Girl Scout Cookies? Do I volunteer to be a reading buddy at school? Do I donate my cans to a local robotics club? Do I judge at fair or speech contest?
Connectivity – Do I smile, wave and/or talk to people as I walk through town? Do I have family meal time and shut off my phone or tablet? Do I ask how someone is doing and stay and listen to their full answer? Do I go out of my way to introduce myself to new people in my community?
Productivity – Do I work hard to do my best? At work – at relationships – when I volunteer for projects? Do I compliment others when they have done a great job? Do I go the extra mile for a friend in need?
Okay, so I’ve finished self-evaluating. I give myself an 86 out of 100. I definitely have some changes I can make to bring my innovation index up. Just being more aware that improving my index can also improve the community and region I live in is a great first step.
So I challenge you -- rate yourself and think about what one thing you could do differently, better, or more of to bring a positive change in your community. Until next time, this is . . .
just an observation from the “corner office.”
Beth
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TAP Applications have been put on hold due to lack of funding available for this round.
The next TAP Application is due on February 15, 2023, when more funding will be allocated.
Questions or concerns may be directed to Jessica at hagen@sicog.com or 641-782-8491
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SICOG is seeking your input on the Draft CEDS 2022-2026. Residents of the SICOG region are encouraged to review and provide input on the draft during the public comment period of August 5, 2022, to September 3rd, 2022. Comments and questions about the Draft CEDS 2022-2026 should be sent to Jessica Hagen, hagen@sicog.com or the SICOG Office (641) 782-8491.
The Draft CEDS 2022-2026 is available on the SICOG website & available in hard copy at the SICOG office.
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“Pattern zone” Enables Quality Infill Development
This article is a summary of an article in Public Square, a CNU Journal. Pattern zoning is a novel concept used in a few mid-sized growing cities but can be adapted as a way to help facilitate affordable and much needed development in rural southern Iowa. The basic premise is that quality infill housing styles and designs can be developed to fit a specific neighborhood and then incorporated into the zoning code. Some of the old zoning language would be removed or softened when a developer or property owner agrees to build or renovate according to the prescribed designs.
Says the article: “Pattern zones are a tool that can be adapted to many prevailing urban patterns in the United States—including suburbs, towns, and small- and mid-sized cities. Buildings included in a pattern zone are designed to match the city’s unique architecture and feel familiar after they are completed. Because the architectural designs are pre-approved, the public now knows exactly what they can expect from infill development in the neighborhood.”
Pattern zoning has some heavy start-up processes, such as zoning language changes. Also it requires some pre-approved architect design concepts, so that adds another upfront cost. Pattern zoning can replace traditional zoning but more likely will serve as an overlay or a zone within the larger zoning ordinance.
If your city is interested in kickstarting incremental infill development, talk to Jeremy at rounds@sicog.com or Terry at niestadt@sicog.com about pattern zoning.
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Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs Recognizes Winterset
Congrats to the City of Winterset for being named one of the newest Iowa Cultural and Entertainment Districts! This designation is a challenge to achieve, but it shows how hard the community has worked to be a cultural and tourism destination!!
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Certified Local Government Grant program open
The Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs’ Certified Local Government grant program round is now open to participating Iowa cities, counties and land-use districts. To be eligible the CLG must be in good standing, have signed a CLG Agreement with the state of Iowa and National Park Service, and have a current annual report. Projects this grant funds includes things like intensive surveys of historic properties and districts, National Register of Historic Places nominations, restoration design plans for historic buildings, and other projects. Draft applications can be submitted by Aug. 12 for a courtesy review.
Application deadline: Sept. 6. Jeremy at rounds@sicog.com or Terry at niestadt@sicog.com are here to help!
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Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program Opens Again for 2023 Projects
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.
Maximum grants are $100,000 and rarely does IEDA fund a grant less than that amount. 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. The pre-application is due January 27, 2023. Local governments should start to promote this opportunity to local commercial building owners who need building improvements and talk with Jeremy at rounds@sicog.com or Terry at niestadt@sicog.com soon to work on an application.
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Main Street Challenge Grant Available
The Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant is a grant program provided by Main Street Iowa (MSI) and the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) for brick-and-mortar building projects in designated Main Street districts. Highly competitive applications include:
- Comprehensive building rehabilitation projects that provide increased business, housing or job opportunities.
- Projects that incorporate quality design and preservation-based strategies.
- Projects that support local revitalization efforts and stimulate additional district investment.
- Projects that are well planned and achievable within the two-year contract period.
Main Street Iowa programs in good standing and in compliance with all contractual requirements from previously awarded funds, if any, may apply on behalf of a property or project within the designated district. The local Main Street organization MUST be the applicant on behalf of local property owners. Awards will be made to the applicant Main Street organization, hereafter referred to as the Grantee, for disbursements to locally designated grant beneficiaries.
Eligible projects include the rehabilitation and/or restoration of significant commercial properties within the designated Main Street district. This can include, but is not limited to:
- Exterior rehabilitation (front, rear and side facades)
- Interior rehabilitation (first floor commercial and upper story housing)
- Structural repairs and building system improvements
- Single specific phase of a large rehab. The project must have a specific defined focus and clearly identified scope of work, with commitment to future phases demonstrated.
- Compatible new construction including building additions with first floor commercial and upper floor(s) commercial or residential. Razing of an existing structure to allow for new construction will not be considered an eligible use of funds.
- Multiple properties connected by a common need or issue. Multiple property projects might include but are not limited to: the removal of inappropriate slipcovers/siding materials; façade restoration for several buildings; activation of a series of highly visible rear entries; or installation of an elevator and common hallway linking several buildings to support upper story development. Programs considering a Multiple Properties application are strongly encouraged to discuss the project with Main Street Iowa Staff before submission.
Eligible projects must be within the designated Main Street district (a map showing eligible Main Street districts is available here).
A (1:1) match is required for all projects. In-kind contributions are permitted for no more than 35% of the project match. At least 65% of the project match must be in cash.
Contact Jeremy at rounds@sicog.com or Terry at niestadt@sicog.com for assistance. Application due September 2.
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SICOG Executive Board Meeting of July 5, 2022
Vice-chair Diane Fitch called the meeting to order at 1:04 p.m. at the SICOG office. The following members were present: Christensen (by phone), Davidson, Fitch, Leners, Lesan, Riley, and Trickey.
Staff present: Waddle and Brimm.
Lesan made a motion to approve the agenda. Davidson seconded the motion, all ayes. Motion carried.
Riley made a motion to approve the minutes of the June 7, 2022 meeting. Trickey seconded the motion, all ayes. Motion carried.
Lesan made a motion to approve the financial reports as presented for the month of June. Davison seconded the motion, all ayes. Motion carried. Leners made a motion to transfer $60,000 from savings into the checking account. Riley seconded the motion. All ayes, motion carried.
Trickey made a motion to approve the “draft” Internal Controls Policy at this time, with the understanding that some areas will need to be updated in the future. Davidson seconded the motion. Fitch voted no and all others voted yes. Motion carried.
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Trickey made a motion for Hagen to attend the NADO Transportation Conference in Kansas City, MO during July 19, 20 & 21, 2022. SICOG will pay for the normal conference expenses. Lesan seconded the motion. All ayes, motion carried.
Trickey made a motion the change the current vacation policy so that new employees receive 1-full day of vacation for every month worked starting with the first month through the 23rd month. Trickey wants this policy retroactive to include the newest staff members (Wilkinson and Hagen). Davidson seconded the motion. All ayes, motion carried.
Trickey made a motion to allow the Executive Director to set the office hours and work with employees schedules, providing it does not interrupt meeting the needs of the customer base. Leners seconded the motion. All ayes, motion carried.
Other items discussed included: grant report, contract income, legal, insurance claim, draft audit report, IEDA, IFA, EDA, personnel committee, building renovations, new staff, and miscellaneous.
Trickey made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 1:57 p.m. Riley seconded the motion, all ayes. Motion carried.
Minutes Submitted by Brimm
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SICOG Closed Monday, September 5th, 2022 in Observance of Labor Day
SICOG Executive Board Meetings – Tuesday, September 6th, 2022
SICOG 20th Annual Golf Invitational – Wednesday, September 14th, 2022
SICOG Executive Board Meetings & Housing Trust Fund Meeting – Tuesday, October 4th, 2022
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