O’Brien County Community Foundation Grant

The O’Brien County Community Foundation (OBCCF), a named affiliate of the Siouxland Community Foundation, was established to enhance the quality of life in O’Brien County, Iowa. It serves as a local philanthropic hub, encouraging charitable giving to meet current and future community needs. Donations from individuals, families, corporations, private foundations, and government agencies are invested, and the resulting income supports grants to eligible nonprofits and municipalities. An Advisory Committee, representing each community within the county, guides the fundraising and grantmaking processes, ensuring decisions reflect local priorities. The OBCCF grant program is designed to address present and emerging needs within O’Brien County by supporting initiatives in six priority areas: arts and culture, civic betterment, education, environment, health, and human services. Projects in these categories may include arts programming, community beautification, early childhood development, conservation efforts, healthcare access, and services for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, youth, and economically disadvantaged groups. Grant requests typically range from $250 to $15,000. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations or units of local government serving O’Brien County and holding tax-exempt status under IRS section 501(c)(3). Applications that demonstrate a potential for long-term impact, address significant or underserved needs, show collaborative planning, and utilize local resources are prioritized. Requests that duplicate existing services or fund general operating expenses, endowments, religious or political activities, capital campaigns, or events are generally not considered. A detailed bid is required for any equipment or building-related projects, and preference is given to applicants using local vendors. The application opens annually on January 15 and closes at noon on April 15. Final grant decisions are made in June. All proposals are reviewed by the OBCCF Advisory Committee, which evaluates submissions based on community needs, organizational capacity, and alignment with Foundation priorities. The program does not require a matching contribution. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early and ensure completeness, particularly in securing any necessary bids and clarifying vendor arrangements. Applicants may contact Denise Steffen, Advisory Committee Chair, at (712) 260-6282 or the OBCCF Administrative Office at (712) 293-3303 for further details or assistance. Additional information, including potential giving strategies and grant award histories, can be accessed through the Siouxland Community Foundation. The administrative office is located at 4425 Singing Hills Blvd., STE 100, Sioux City, IA 51106. This grant opportunity is recurring annually, with the next expected application cycle opening in January 2026. Prospective applicants are encouraged to monitor the foundation’s website or contact the administrative office for updates regarding the new cycle and any procedural changes.

Prioritize local vendor use, submit a complete application with required bids, and demonstrate collaboration and planning.