The Endowment Funds of Southwest Iowa are nine counties that have chosen to affiliate with the Omaha Community Foundation (OCF) in order to take advantage of its expertise and services.  Because of their affiliation with OCF, they now have all the tools available to run an effective public charitable foundation, without the administrative burdens.

Each fund was formed by a volunteer Advisory Board made up of local county residents.  The Advisory Board guides the fund in each county with technical assistance and management support services being provided by the Omaha Community Foundation.

In 1997, the Southwest Iowa Foundation initiated an affiliate program with the Omaha Community Foundation for nine southwest Iowa counties.  The initiative is a ten-year, dollar-for-dollar, matching program of funds up to $50,000 annually in each of the participating counties.  Each county received it's initial $50,000 challenge grant from the Southwest Iowa Foundation in 1998.

How does the grant application process work?

Annually, five percent of each county endowment fund's balance may be granted to charities within its county.  Local charities can apply to the fund to receive grants that are determined by the local county Advisory Board.  The granting process began in 1999.

How can I contribute?

Each endowment fund is countywide and serves the interests of its residents.  The funds were created to help individuals contribute to the betterment of their communities.

Individuals who make gifts of $10,000, or more, can start their own family foundation, endowed named fund, or scholarship fund to honor a loved one.  Funds may be started with gifts of cash, greatly appreciated securities, or end-of-life planned gifts.

Gifts in amounts less than $10,000 are added directly to each respective county endowment fund to be used in the annual grant distribution process.  Because each county endowment fund is a community foundation and public charity in itself, all gifts receive maximum tax benefits.  Each endowment fund is a neutral, impartial organization established to enrich the quality of life in its respective county.
The Endowment Funds of Southwest Iowa are nine counties that have chosen to affiliate with the Omaha Community Foundation (OCF) in order to take advantage of its expertise and services.  Because of their affiliation with OCF, they now have all the tools available to run an effective public charitable foundation, without the administrative burdens.

If you would like to know more about grant opportunities available in southwest Iowa, click here.