The Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program assists communities with the redevelopment or rehabilitation of buildings to stimulate economic growth or reinvestment in the community.  

  • Funding based on annual availability
  • Maximum grant: $100,000
  • 40% of funds will be awarded to cities with populations under 1,500

Eligibility

  • Funds available for the rehabilitation of one commercial building per community or two buildings with same ownership that are adjacent
  • Deconstruction is allowed in dire situations or for safety reasons
  • City must be the applicant and provide financial and/or in-kind resources

Application Process

  • A mandatory pre-application process will precede the official grant application
  • Applications are by invitation only, after approved pre-application
  • Contact the program contact listed

FY 2026 Application Cycle

  • All pre-applications and applications submitted through Iowa Grants at iowagrants.gov
  • Pre-applications open October 6, 2025
  • Pre-applications must be submitted by January 29, 2026, to be considered eligible for this fiscal year’s funding cycle
  • Applications are by invitation ONLY
  • Application Deadline: April 15, 2026
  • Announcement: June 2026
    • Project Commencement: after award letter from IEDA
    • Project Completion: 24 months after award

Application Workshops

Attendance is Highly Recommended. Historical data indicates that applications from those who participate in an application workshop generally receive higher scores. Register today!

  • October 14, 2025
    Gowrie
    10am – Noon
    Heartland Community Room
    1201 Market Street
    Gowrie, Iowa 50543
  • October 17, 2025
    Grundy Center
    10am – Noon
    Community Center
    705 F Avenue
    Grundy Center, Iowa 50638
  • October 24, 2025
    Des Moines
    10am – Noon
    Iowa Economic Development Authority
    Mississippi River Conference Room
    1963 Bell Avenue
    Des Moines, IA 50315

Resources