What is a Dubuque Community Support and Empowerment Grant? Applications Open in January

If you have an idea that could help people feel more connected, supported, and empowered in Dubuque, the city could help bring it to life. The Dubuque Community Support and Empowerment Grant offers funding of up to $5,000 to support community-driven projects that strengthen belonging and reduce opportunity gaps across the city.

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Administered by the City’s Office of Human Rights, this grant program is designed to support individuals, organizations, and grassroots groups who are working to make Dubuque a place where everyone feels they belong. For the 2026 grant cycle, the City will award a total of $10,000 through two or more grants to eligible applicants.

Funded projects must align with at least one of the City of Dubuque’s Five-Year Goals, such as creating a connected community, supporting livable neighborhoods and housing, promoting a healthy and safe community, or expanding access to arts, culture, parks, and recreation. Every proposal must also include an education and/or community engagement component, ensuring the project creates opportunities for learning, participation, or dialogue.

Applications open on January 1st, 2026, and must be submitted by January 31st, 2026. Grant recipients will be notified by February 20th, 2026, and all projects must be completed by June 1st, 2026.

The grant is open to Dubuque residents, nonprofit organizations, clubs, neighborhood associations, and groups of individuals located within city limits. For-profit businesses and applicants based outside of Dubuque are not eligible. A partial match is required and may be provided through cash or in-kind contributions. Grant funds are typically distributed on a reimbursement basis, though the City is willing to work with recipients if upfront costs present a barrier.

Recipients are also required to measure and report the impact of their project, using tools such as surveys, attendance numbers, stories, or photos to help share successes and lessons learned. Full grant guidelines, application materials, and more are available online here. Printed applications can be found at the Multicultural Family Center in Dubuque.