Restore Iowa
A guide to state and federal grants, tax credits, and redevelopment assistance
Explore programs that help restore and reuse Iowa’s historic buildings, from the 25% state tax credit and 20% federal credit to matching grants, local incentives, and practical grant-writing tools.
Explore the Guide
Iowa Historic Preservation Tax Credit
Up to 25% of qualified rehabilitation expenditures for eligible historic properties.
Federal Tax CreditFederal Historic Tax Credit
20% credit for certified historic structures used for income-producing purposes.
Local & StateLocal Incentives & Redevelopment
Main Street Challenge Grants, CLG grants, TIF, brownfield credits, and more.
Matching GrantHRDP Grants
Competitive matching grants up to $50,000 for preservation, museums, and collections.
ToolkitGrant Writing Toolkit
Best practices, document checklists, narrative templates, and budget tips.
PrintableRecord-Keeping Workbook
Printable forms to track funding, expenses, photos, contacts, and milestones.
Quick Reference: Incentive Stack
| Incentive | Type | Typical Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Iowa Historic Preservation Tax Credit | State tax credit | Up to 25% of QREs |
| Federal Historic Tax Credit | Federal tax credit | 20% of QREs over 5 years |
| HRDP Grant | Matching grant | Up to $50,000 with required match |
| Main Street Iowa Challenge Grant | Matching grant | Up to $100,000 with 1:1 match |
| CLG Grant | Matching grant | For certified local governments |
| Redevelopment / Brownfield / Local TIF | Tax credits / financing | Project-dependent |