Cedar Rapids Casino Moves Forward, Creating New Partner in Nonprofit Funding

In February, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission approved a gaming license for Linn County, paving the way for a new casino near downtown Cedar Rapids. While the project still faces hurdles, a groundbreaking ceremony has already taken place, and Cedar Crossing is expected to open at the end of 2026.

Per Iowa law, commercial gaming operators partner with a qualified sponsoring organization (QSO) licensed to conduct gambling games.  QSOs are nonprofit organizations that receive a portion of their respective operator’s gaming revenue to reinvest in the community. The Linn County Gaming Association (LCGA) serves as the QSO for Cedar Crossing.

“We look forward to having a new funding partner to help meet the needs of our community,” said President & CEO Karla Twedt-Ball. “Community foundations throughout Iowa have developed good relationships with their QSOs, and we have appreciated the communication we have had with Cedar Crossing representatives over the years.”

“Conservatively, we expect to have at least $6 million annually available for granting,” said Anne Parmley, President of LCGA. “Right now, we’re learning from other organizations and starting to create our processes. When funds become available in mid-2027, we’ll be ready to grant that into the community as efficiently and effectively as possible.”

Previously, as a non-gaming county, Linn County received a portion of the state’s gaming tax revenue. That money—about $150,000 each year—was distributed through the competitive Linn County Grants, administered by the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation and overseen by a committee of volunteers. The LCGA intends to fund this grant program at a similar level going forward.

“It is important to us to maintain this grant opportunity for local nonprofits and to collaborate with funders that have been doing this work for a long time,” Anne said. While a lot is yet to be decided, Anne says that the LCGA will keep its criteria broad and nimble so they are able to respond to community needs as they arise.