The Iowa Tourism Marketing Grant is administered by the Iowa Economic Development Authority through its Iowa Tourism Office. This program supports tourism-related entities in the state of Iowa in developing and executing marketing campaigns that promote Iowa’s attractions, destinations, and events to out-of-state audiences. Its purpose is to bolster both local and statewide economies by attracting visitors and raising the state’s visibility as a tourism destination.
This competitive grant prioritizes applications aligned with the state’s broader marketing strategy, particularly those that resonate with the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s messaging and targeted demographics. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, for-profits, municipalities, counties, and regional governmental or planning entities, all of which must be based in Iowa. Projects may not receive funding from this program two years in a row, and only one application per applicant is permitted per funding cycle.
The program funds marketing initiatives such as advertising campaigns, promotional materials, digital media, and event marketing—but excludes infrastructure-related expenses and general event implementation costs. It mandates a cash match of at least 20% of the total project cost. In-kind contributions and discounts do not count toward this requirement, and matching funds from other state programs are not permitted.
Applications for the upcoming cycle will open in August 2026 and close in September 2026. Awards will be announced in December 2026 to support marketing projects executed during calendar year 2027. Award sizes range from $2,500 to $10,000, issued in $100 increments. The total available funding for the program is $300,000.
Applications are scored on a range of factors, including project clarity and timeline, alignment with tourism goals, sustainability, demonstrated need, innovation, budget quality, and potential for collaboration. Grantees are required to sign a contract, submit a final report within 60 days of project completion, and retain financial documentation for three years post-project.
For more information, applicants may contact Lora Friest at 515.348.6254 or via email. The full program rules are codified under Iowa Administrative Code 261.42, and comprehensive guidelines, rubrics, and reporting tools are available on the Iowa Tourism Office website.
Emphasize clear articulation of project’s economic benefit, innovation, and marketing strategy; collaborative proposals score higher.
