The Quad Cities Community Foundation recently announced the opening of the 2025 QC River Connections Grant Program.
The Community Foundation will host a free information session for interested organizations on Thursday, Aug. 7. The sessions are available both virtually and in-person at 5:30 p.m. at the Community Foundation office, 852 Middle Road, Suite 100, Bettendorf.
Funded by the Walton Family Foundation and guided by the Clean River Advisory Council (C-RAC), the program provides grants to local organizations addressing environmental and community challenges along the Mississippi River.
Launched in 2023, the QC River Connections Grants prioritize projects that amplify the voices and experiences of communities most impacted by environmental issues. This year, up to $50,000 can be requested per applicant, with a total of $315,000 available.
“As the program has grown, we’ve incorporated feedback from recipients to maximize the impact of these grants,” Kaleigh Trammell, the foundation’s director of grantmaking and community initiatives, said in a news release. “We are working closely with organizations throughout the grant process to ensure accessibility and project success, including connecting them with the National Wildlife Federation for nature-based solutions.”
The 2025 grant program emphasizes alignment with the Mississippi River Equity Vision and nature-based solutions, which utilize natural resources to address both environmental and social challenges. This includes initiatives such as wetlands restoration for flood reduction, urban green spaces for public health improvement, and environmental education and engagement programs.
Inclusive communities
The grants aim to strengthen communities and ecosystems through inclusive and equitable community engagement.
In the inaugural grant cycle, the program awarded more than $300,000 to 12 organizations for work blending environmental stewardship with community well-being, addressing issues such as public health, flood resilience, and the creation of green spaces.
At the information sessions, attendees will learn more about the grant program, review the application process with the grants subcommittee, and connect with other interested organizations.
For more information about the grant program, information sessions, and how to apply, visit the Community Foundation’s website here.
