Beyond my own information and resources I love offering Iowa nonprofits for free (like this board responsibilities handout or this nonprofit formation guide), I like to call attention to all the awesome events, awards, and grants available. There are so many great opportunities for Iowan nonprofit pros, board members, volunteers, and donors, that range from conferences to workshops, and grant applications to award nominations. But, life is busy, and it can be hard to keep track of what you should register for or put on your calendar. That’s why I compiled a list for your convenience:
Learning Events & Trainings
- Volunteer Iowa is accepting applications for the Service Enterprise Training Fall Cohort. Due date is August 27.
- On September 13, learn about different types of non-cash assets and their various tax advantages, as well as potential concerns the gifts might bring to your nonprofit at “Taking the Confusion out of Complex Gifts: Tools and Tips to Know.” Hosted by the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, registration is free.
- Drake University Center for Professional Studies is hosting a three-day Nonprofit Fundraising Workshop, September 14, 21, and 28. The cost to attend is $475 for the three full days and includes all learning materials.
- The 4th Annual Southeast Iowa Nonprofit Summit will be held September 20. Registration is free and limited to the first 250 people.
- Iowa State University Extension and Outreach offers a Nonprofit Management Academy at the Johnson County Extension Office. All offerings are held 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. on Tuesdays, and each course is $70 (with CEU credit an additional $25). Individuals make take just a single course or may complete a combo of them to obtain a Certificate in Nonprofit Management! See here for the current course descriptions, instructors and dates through November 2018.
Awards
- The AARP is accepting nominations for the 2018 Andrus Award for Community Service. AARP’s most-prestigious volunteer tribute recognizes outstanding individuals who are sharing their experience, talents and skills to enrich the lives of others.
Nominations are due August 10.
Grants
- Storey Kenworthy Foundation for Giving is accepting grant applications for five $5000 awards. The scope of giving priorities includes: “Honoring our Heroes, Medical Research and Support, Children & Education.” Application period available through August 31.
- Nonprofits that on families, education or the environment are invited to apply for a grant from the Alliant Energy Foundation. Applications are accepted through September 1.
- Tourism-related entities (including nonprofits) based in Iowa can apply for the Iowa Tourism Grant Program. Awards range from $500 to $5,000 and require a 25% cash match. There is $150,000 available for the fiscal year 2019 grant cycle. Applications are due September 12.
- The Mortimer & Mimi Levitt Foundation launching a grant opportunity for small to mid-sized towns and cities. Up to 15 grantees will be awarded $25,000 each in matching funds to produce their own free outdoor concert series. The prospective series should feature a diverse line-up of quality entertainment for people of different ages and backgrounds. Finalists are chosen through online public voting. Grant applications are due by September 25.
There are so many great events and opportunities for nonprofits that there is no doubt I missed some in the list above. Please feel free to add applicable events for August and September in the comments below! If you would like to notify GFLF of any upcoming nonprofit-focused events and opportunities in the coming months, don’t hesitate to email GFLF’s Chief Content Officer at mackensie@gordonfischerlawfirm.com.
