Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines Distributes Nearly $100 Million in Grants, Opens 2026 Cycle

The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines announced the distribution of nearly $100 million in charitable grants during 2025, a nearly 20% increase from the previous year. More than 2,900 charities received funding as donors responded to community needs and emerging opportunities. The foundation also reported receiving over $105 million in latest gifts to charitable funds, ensuring continued support for causes across Central Iowa and beyond.

Record Grantmaking and Donor Support

The substantial grant distribution reflects a significant surge in charitable giving, according to Kristi Knous, president of the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines. “Over the past year, the challenges facing our local nonprofit organizations have been unprecedented, and donors responded to those pressing needs with overwhelming support,” Knous stated in a prepared statement as reported by the Business Record. “These milestones reflect both the generosity of all who call our communities home and the trust they place in the Community Foundation to amplify impact through a Better Together spirit.”

Key Highlights from 2025

• Better Together Fund: Nearly $2.9 million in grants were awarded through the foundation’s Better Together Fund, supporting promising community initiatives.
• New Charitable Funds: Donors established 164 new charitable funds, bringing the total number of funds administered by the foundation to 2,763.
• Total Assets Under Administration: The foundation reported $1.2 billion in total assets under administration as of December 31, 2025.
• Financial Transactions: Over 31,000 financial transactions were processed throughout the year.
• Nonprofit Support: More than 1,100 nonprofit staff and board members participated in trainings designed to strengthen the sector.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines has opened its 2026 grant cycle, including its Leadership, Capacity Building, and Strategic Alignment grant programs. The foundation will also host its Annual Celebration Luncheon and Report to the Community on April 23 at the Community Choice Convention Center in Des Moines according to the Community Foundation’s website.

“As we reflect on an incredible year, we are deeply grateful for the Iowans that make a significant impact on the charitable causes they care about,” said Debbie Hubbell, Community Foundation board chair, in a prepared statement. “This shared commitment to accountability, collaboration and charitable giving builds strong communities.”