Iowa Tourism Grants
The Iowa Tourism Marketing Grant program provides funding for tourism partners around the state to market Iowa's places, attractions and events to out-of-state audiences. The grant may not be used for infrastructure and is not intended to pay expenses associated with the implementation of an event.
Successful applicants are executing marketing campaigns and initiatives that benefit both the state and local economies. Preference is given to applications that support the overall marketing plan of the Iowa Economic Development Authority, especially in terms of target audience and messaging. The Administrative Rules that govern the program and provide further guidance are in Iowa Administrative Code 261.42.
In September 2025, the Iowa Tourism Office received FY26 applications from private and public tourism-related entities across the state. Thirty-three grants, totaling $299,800, were ultimately awarded funding for implementation of campaigns and projects in calendar year 2026. Individually and collectively, the projects will elevate Iowa on the world stage, increase Iowa’s ability to recruit visitors, strengthen Iowa’s economy and make Iowa a destination. They will also help Iowa recruit a workforce that is exploring new employment opportunities and relocation options while traveling.
The application cycle is now closed until fall of 2026 when the FY27 grant cycle will begin and applications will be accepted. Although the FY26 Guidelines and Rubric are provided below to foster a better understanding of the program, these resources may be updated or changed for the FY27 grant cycle.
Next Iowa Tourism Grant Cycle
August 2026 - Applications openSeptember 2026 - Applications close
December 2026 - All applicants notified of status
Eligibility
Applicants must be a tourism-related entity based in Iowa. This includes nonprofits, for-profits, cities, counties, and regional government and planning entities.
Applicants may submit one application per funding cycle. The same project cannot receive funding from the Iowa Tourism Marketing Grant program two years in a row.
Funding
Awards may not be less than $2,500 or more than $10,000
Awards will be made in increments of $100 (i.e. $2,500, $2,600, $2,700)
Applicants are required to pay for a minimum of 20% of their total project. Cash match must be in the form of cash only. In-kind dollars or discounts do not count towards a cash match.
Eligible Expenses
All project expenses (grant request plus cash match) must directly relate to the implementation of a tourism-related marketing initiative or the marketing of an event.
Additional Information
Logo Usage
Recipients of Iowa Tourism Grants must use the Travel Iowa language and logos to credit the Iowa Tourism Office for their cooperative efforts.
Reporting Tools
- Iowa Tourism Grant Narrative Report
- Financial Evaluation Report
- Reporting Instructions