Iowa: Job Creation Grants

To bolster the state’s creative economy, the Iowa Arts Council (IAC) directly invests in the creation of new jobs critical to cultural vitality. Through its Job Creation Grants program, IAC provides one-year awards, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, to help cover the salaries, wages and benefits of newly created positions with organizations in the cultural sector. Eligible positions can be full-time, part-time or contract, but must be with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, tribal councils, or local or county government agencies. They also must pay at least $14.50/hour (200% of the federal minimum wage). Since Job Creation Grants is an incubator program, IAC does not provide funds for existing positions, and it requires a one-to-one matching commitment. This program is an example of a state arts agency addressing a top state policy priority—job creation—through an arts grant strategy that also fosters cultural, community and economic development. To learn more, contact IAC Grants Manager Linda Lee.