Cedar Falls Tourism Activities and Economic Development Services Application

The City of Cedar Falls is requesting proposals from non-profit or governmental agencies that contribute to increasing tourism activities or economic development services as part of the City's annual Tourism Activities and Economic Development Services funding. Funds will be available beginning July 1, 2025, until June 30, 2026. Applicants must be able to use the funds within this timeframe.

To qualify, the applicant must be a private, non-profit organization or governmental agency organized and existing under Iowa Law. If the applicant has secured or plans to request any other City funding, the applicant will not be considered under this grant program.

This application is for requests for two types of proposals:

1. Increases tourism through a one-time project or activity

OR

1. Significant contributions to and/or promotion of economic development, the creation of quality employment opportunities, and/or increase taxable valuation in Cedar Falls.

Proposals are sought to help facilitate the City Council's organizational goal of "creating an environment conducive to economic development."

Fundable requests could include special equipment purchases as well as capital improvements, including new construction, renovation, restoration, and installation of fixtures. Large capital projects generally do not fall within the scope of this funding and should be requested through the City's annual Capital Improvement Program (CIP) process. Operating expenses may also be considered, provided a direct link to increased tourism or economic development can be shown by any funds proposed for operating uses. Economic development funds emphasize direct job creation and taxable valuation increase tied to a specific program or project.

The City of Cedar Falls must receive all applications no later than 4:00 p.m. on December 13, 2024. Late applications will not be considered. All contracts supporting funding are anticipated for Council approval in May 2025, with funding available for projects/programs during the period of July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2026. View the application form at bit.ly/CFED25.