ECIAR COMMUNITY IMPACT INITIATIVE

We are proud to live and work in the tri-state area and are dedicated to ensuring it remains a thriving and welcoming place for generations to come. That’s why we actively work to enhance each community in our region, fostering inclusive and vibrant neighborhoods. Thriving communities are essential to a strong real estate market, which is why REALTORS® are deeply invested in economic and community development efforts.  

ECIAR's Community Impact Committee will carefully review and award grants of up to $5,000 to support local projects across the tri-state area. Through the ECIAR Community Impact Initiative, we plan to proudly invest in organizations and programs dedicated to safe and affordable housing, combating food insecurity, and improving the overall quality of life in our communities. We are also committed to equitable distribution of our support, ensuring that both large and small communities benefit from our efforts, reaching every area where our REALTORS® live and work.  

· Housing: Housing is a cornerstone of our economic development strategy and a vital component of community stability. ECIAR is dedicated to ensuring that East Central Iowa and its surrounding communities have a diverse housing inventory, including safe and affordable housing options. Our efforts also focus on addressing homelessness by supporting initiatives that provide both short-term emergency shelter and long-term housing solutions

· Quality of Life: Quality of life is about enhancing the overall well-being of individuals and families in our communities. ECIAR supports initiatives that improve public spaces such as parks and trails, promote arts and culture, develop community gardens, and create opportunities for networking and events. These efforts help to attract and retain residents, ensuring that our region continues to thrive.

· Food Insecurity: Food insecurity remains a pressing concern for many in our area. ECIAR prioritizes efforts that support local food pantries, free meal programs, and other initiatives aimed at ensuring that no family goes hungry. By addressing this basic need, we aim to build stronger, healthier communities where everyone has access to the nourishment they need to succeed.

· Supporting All Communities: ECIAR values the diverse makeup of our region and is committed to ensuring that both larger and smaller towns benefit from our initiatives. We strive to approve yearly grants that directly impact smaller communities where our REALTORS® live and work.

To apply for a grant, you will need to submit an application for your organization. Please confirm you are eligible for a grant before applying. Applicants must have current tax-exempt status as nonprofit/not for profit or be a government entity. Applicants may include but are not limited to economic development organizations, community development corporations, parks and recreation departments, Mainstreet organizations, housing partners, community foundations, civic entities and non-profit organizations. Funding support eligibility is limited to organizations and communities in Dubuque, Delaware, Jackson, Clayton, Jo Daviess, and Grant Counties. 

If you have questions email: eciardbq@gmail.com 

Funding Guidelines: To qualify for grant funding consideration, your organization must meet the following criteria:

• Have current tax-exempt status as nonprofit/not for profit or be a government entity.
• Serve communities that are in: Dubuque, Delaware, Jackson, Clayton, Jo Daviess, and Grant Counties.
• Serve communities without discrimination regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, national origin, socioeconomic status, political affiliation, or other qualities by which we may define ourselves.
• Have a method by which to measure, track, and report one or more program outcomes and specific results that demonstrate measurable community impact. 

• Show alignment with ECIAR Community Impact Initiative's funding priorities.
• Are sustainable and have the ability to be maintained.
• Include any promotional benefits ECIAR will receive.
• Describe the need the program/project will address.
• Engage the community where the program/project will take place.
• Describe who from the community will directly benefit from the project/program.
• Provide volunteer opportunities for ECIAR members.
• Include a detailed program budget.
• Clearly define the impact you are creating in the community or with the affected audience.