Foundations that fund organizations in Desmoines, Iowa
Worked out from where the grants went, not where the foundations sit.
Funding landscape for Desmoines nonprofits
3 private foundations gave $533K to Desmoines organizations in their latest filings; 1 of the 3 that say either way accept applications.
3 grants in total, with a typical foundation's median grant to Desmoines around $25K. 0 of these funders are based in Iowa; the rest give here from elsewhere.
- Foundations giving here
- 3
- Accept applications
- 1
- of 3 that state a policy
- Dollars to Desmoines
- $533K
- latest filings
- Grants
- 3
- Typical median grant
- $25K
- Based in IA
- 0%
- of funders listed
Funders, by dollars given to Desmoines organizations
| Foundation | Based in | Grants here | Dollars here | Median | Accepts applications | Typical purposes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Sherwood Foundation | Omaha, NE | 1 | $506K | $506K | Preselected only | Land conservation in arnold's park |
| Advocare Foundation | Richardson, TX | 1 | $25K | $25K | Yes | To increase awareness of childhood obesity |
| Rao Family Foundation | Chapel Hill, NC | 1 | $2,000 | $2,000 | Preselected only | General donation |
Source: IRS Form 990-PF Part XV, latest electronic return per foundation (2026-10-28). "Accepts applications" reflects the foundation's own checkbox on Part XV line 2. Grants to individuals excluded.
Common questions
Which foundations give to nonprofits in Desmoines, Iowa?
The Sherwood Foundation, Advocare Foundation, Rao Family Foundation reported grants to Desmoines organizations on their latest Form 990-PF.
How do I approach a foundation that doesn't accept applications?
A foundation that checks "contributes only to preselected organizations" on its 990-PF won't review a cold proposal. Look at who it funds, find a shared board member, grantee or advisor, and ask for an introduction. Foundations that accept applications usually list a contact and deadlines in Part XV; we show that text on each foundation's page.
Is this list complete?
No. It covers private foundations (Form 990-PF filers) whose latest electronic return lists at least one grant to an organization in Desmoines. Community foundations and corporate giving programs file different forms and are not included yet.