Funding to inspire and transform young people.
Looking for funding? Our grant process can get you there!
We’re about people, not just forms.
It’s about relationships and community to us. Call, join one of our workshops—even if your project isn’t ready for funding. We’d love to learn about what you’re doing.
A smooth and self-explanatory grant process.
Your time is best spent moving your project forward—the work that is most important to you. We want your interaction with us to be streamlined with straightforward next steps.
Application Advice.
Only 3/10 grant seekers receive funding from McElroy. Put your best foot forward with guidance from our experts.
The grant seeking process can be time consuming and frustrating. You deserve a straightforward process.
Double check the grant rules below and learn about our strategy.
Before you take your first step in the grant process double check that your project or program aligns with our point of view.
Curious about what the Trust has funded in the past? Click here for our 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 funding history.
Submit your Letter of Intent (LOI) anytime. (Do it as soon as you can. It’s a fast form and there’s room to adjust later). Expect that we will approve or deny your LOI within 2 - 3 weeks.
Submit your application at any time. Our Board will review proposals received two weeks prior to their meetings. These are the dates for grant proposals in 2024.
Submit Date: Review Date:
February 3, 2025 February 18, 2025
May 19, 2025 June 4, 2025
September 29, 2025 October 9, 2025
November 24, 2025 December 3, 2025
These dates are NOT deadlines. They’re windows of opportunity. We promise to work with you and be as flexible as we can with the timing of your proposal. If you aren’t ready to submit for one meeting, we can review your grant at the next. Do not hesitate to call or email us with questions about timing. We can help you decide what is right for you and your organization.
Complete the letter of intent.
Give us a summary of the project or program you’re requesting funding for. How does your project inspire and transform young people in Northeast Iowa? This step helps us know if you’re a good match for us. Preview the questions here.
Fill out our grant application
You’re almost there! Now it’s time to get down to the details. This is your opportunity to teach us about the amazing work you do for the community. Filling out a form can only tell us so much, but we want it to be painless for you. Preview the questions here.
And remember, we’re always here to help. Don’t hesitate to call 319-287-9102 or email office@mcelroytrust.org if you need guidance or advice on your application.