Historical Resource Development Program (HRDP)
Competitive matching grants to preserve, conserve, interpret, and educate the public about Iowa’s historical assets
Matching Grant
2. Historical Resource Development Program (HRDP)
Type: Competitive matching grants to preserve, conserve, interpret, and educate the public about Iowa’s historical assets.
Administered by: State Historical Society of Iowa, Iowa Department of Cultural Affairs.
Official page: history.iowa.gov/resources/grants/historical-resource-development-program
Guidelines: General Guidelines
Who Can Apply
Nonprofits, governmental units, tribes, individuals, and for-profit businesses.
Award & Match
- Maximum award: Up to $50,000 per project (requests above $50,000 are possible but discouraged due to demand).
- Match required: Varies by applicant type.
| Applicant Type | Required Match | Cash Match Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| Nonprofits / Governments / Tribes | $0.50 per grant dollar | At least $0.25 cash |
| Individuals | $0.75 per grant dollar | At least $0.50 cash |
| Businesses | $1.00 per grant dollar | At least $0.75 cash |
Grant Categories
- Documentary Collections
- Historic Preservation
- Museums
Deadlines
- Regular cycle (FY 2027): Applications due by 11:59 p.m. CDT, May 1, 2026.
- Projects begin July 1, 2026, and must be completed by November 30, 2028.
- Emergency HRDP: Applications accepted each year starting July 1 on a first-come, first-served basis. (Currently limited to documentary collections.)
Contact: Kristen Vander Molen, Grants Manager — kristen.vandermolen@das.iowa.gov, 515-822-3583
Disclaimer: Tax codes, grant guidelines, and deadlines change frequently. Before making financial or project decisions, confirm current rules, application windows, and eligibility directly with IEDA, the State Historical Society of Iowa / SHPO, the IRS, and your local city or county economic development office.