Updated Nov 3, 2026
Private foundations based in Grinnell, Iowa
4 grantmaking foundations headquartered in Grinnell, Iowa, holding $14M in assets. Ranked by grants paid in their latest 990-PF; 1 on this page say they accept applications. For foundations ranked by where their grants went, see local funders.
| Foundation | Grants paid | Median grant | Accepts applications | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Claude W and Dolly Ahrens Foundation Corporationsince 1997 | $568K7 grants · 2023 | $5,000 | Preselected only | $7.7M |
| Brownell Family Foundation Rt 2since 1986 | $427K21 grants · 2025 | $5,000 | Preselected only | $2.0M |
| Grinnell Mutual Group Foundationsince 1989 | $363K89 grants · 2025 | $1,000 | Yes | $1.0M |
| Myrtle Cass Trsince 1998 | $104K3 grants · 2025 | $31K | Preselected only | $3.0M |
Sources: IRS Business Master File (assets), ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer and IRS 990-PF e-file (grants paid, application policy). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own Part XV checkbox.
Open grant programs in Iowa
All 2| Deadline | Grant | Funder | Award ceiling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rollingno deadline | Iowa Arts Council — Organizational GrantsStateIowa Arts Council | Iowa Arts Council | Not listed |
| Rollingno deadline | Humanities Iowa — Humanities GrantsStateHumanities Iowa | Humanities Iowa | Not listed |
Common questions
How many private foundations are based in Grinnell, Iowa?
Our directory lists 4 private grantmaking foundations in Grinnell, Iowa with at least $1 million in assets, holding a combined $14M. The data comes from the IRS Exempt Organizations Business Master File and Form 990-PF.
How do I get a grant from a private foundation?
Start with foundations that already fund organizations like yours nearby. Read the grantee list on each profile, check whether the foundation accepts applications (it says so on its 990-PF), and lead with a short letter of inquiry. Many family foundations fund only organizations they already know; an introduction through a shared grantee or board member works better than a cold proposal.
Can you help us approach foundations?
Yes. Our grant writers research foundation prospects, write letters of inquiry, and build a foundation fundraising plan. Request a free consultation.