Community Foundation Announces 2026 Grant Deadlines
The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation announces information for its 2026 grantmaking programs. The grant deadlines in 2026 will be on March 6, July 2, and September 11.
Grants from the Community Foundation are awarded to nonprofit organizations that enhance the quality of life in Linn County.
In 2026, the Community Foundation’s competitive grant programs will continue to provide support for new and existing programs as well as help organizations to sustain operations and build capacity. Also, grants to support emergency expenses, emerging opportunities, endowment building, and programs serving Linn County outside of the Cedar Rapids metro area will remain available.
In addition, the Community Foundation will continue to assist several local corporations and families with grantmaking from their Competitive Donor-Advised Funds. All funding priorities, grant award sizes, and selection of projects are decided by each donor.
Grant application instructions and eligibility guidelines for 2026 will be shared at the Nonprofit Know-How event later this month.
Learn More at Nonprofit Know-How Event
The staff at the Community Foundation will host Nonprofit Know-How: How the Community Foundation Can Support Your Nonprofit on Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. at the Cedar Rapids Public Library. Attendees will learn about 2026 funding opportunities, new and existing marketing resources, nonprofit funds and endowment building, and new learning opportunities. Attendance is free, but registration is required here. Information shared will be available at gcrcf.org following the event.
Grant Applications Open in Early February
The Community Foundation will accept online applications for its first grant cycle of 2026 beginning in early February through March 6, 2026. During this cycle, applications will be accepted for the following:
- Program Support Grants: Support programs or projects of nonprofits serving Linn County. Grant awards are a maximum of $30,000 per year. Award limits and eligibility are based on organization type and budget. For questions, contact Sanjana Raghavan at 319.200.2279 or sanjana.raghavan@gcrcf.org.
- Organization Support Grants: Provide general operating support for nonprofits based in Linn County. Grant awards are a maximum of $30,000 per year. Eligibility is based on organization location, type, and budget. For questions, contact Casey Baustian at 319.774.2378 or casey.baustian@gcrcf.org.
- GreatAmerica Competitive Donor-Advised Fund: Accepts applications for programs, capital projects, and event sponsorships. For questions, contact Rochelle Naylor at 319.774.2373 or rochelle.naylor@gcrcf.org.
The Community Foundation also accepts applications for Rapid Response Grants from 501(c)(3) public charity organizations headquartered in Linn County as needed throughout the year. For questions, contact Casey Baustian at 319.774.2378 or casey.baustian@gcrcf.org.