News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 6/1/26

MRHD Accepting Applications for $1 Million Economic Development Match Grant

SIOUX CITY – Missouri River Historical Development (MRHD) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Economic Development Match Grant (EDMG) program through June 30. In total, $1,000,000 will be available for the 2026 grant cycle.

This competitive grant program provides awards ranging from $250,000 to $1,000,000 for projects that create jobs, strengthen the workforce, improve quality of life, and support long-term community growth. Eligible applicants include local governments, tax-exempt organizations, and educational institutions located in Woodbury County.

Projects must provide a dollar-for-dollar match and demonstrate strong potential for sustainable economic and community impact. The EDMG program is reimbursable, meaning grantees must pay project expenses and the required match upfront before being reimbursed according to project milestones and completion percentages. Grant recipients are also expected to recognize MRHD at a level commensurate with the award amount.

Projects should align with one or more of MRHD’s economic development priorities, including job creation and retention, workforce development, projects with substantial community impact, and quality of life and community development initiatives.

Since launching the EDMG program, MRHD has invested millions of dollars into transformative projects throughout Siouxland, including childcare expansion, workforce development, healthcare and mental health services, entrepreneurship initiatives, riverfront redevelopment, and major community infrastructure projects.

Following the June application period, finalists will be identified and interviewed by the Grant Review Committee in July prior to final funding recommendations being voted on by the MRHD Board in August.

MRHD is the non-profit Qualified Sponsoring Organization (QSO) that holds the license for casino gaming in Woodbury County and receives funding through an agreement with Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Sioux City. Under Iowa law, a portion of casino gaming revenue is dedicated to charitable and community development purposes. Since 1989, MRHD has invested more than $60 million throughout Woodbury County and Siouxland through grants and community initiatives funded by gaming revenue.

For more information or to apply, visit https://mrhdiowa.org/economic-development-grant.

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