The Iowa Cultural and Entertainment District (CED) Certification program encourages the growth of communities through the development of areas within a city or county for public and private uses related to cultural and entertainment purposes.
Donor Name: Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA)
State: Iowa
County: All Counties
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 05/03/2024
Size of the Grant: Not Available
Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned
Details:
Pursuant to Iowa Code section 15.438, a city or county may create and designate a cultural and entertainment district, subject to certification by the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). Two or more cities or counties may apply jointly for certification of a district that extends across a common boundary. Certification remains in effect for ten years following the date of certification.
Areas certified as an Iowa Cultural and Entertainment District (CED) are well-identified, walkable, mixed-use, compact areas of a city or county in which a high concentration of arts and cultural facilities serve as the anchor.
CEDs attract a diverse and engaged workforce – a key incentive for new and relocating businesses. CEDs also attract residents and tourists who support adjacent businesses such as restaurants, lodging facilities, retail stores and entertainment venues, enhancing property values, the profitability of surrounding businesses and the tax base of the area.
The goals of the program are to distinguish those districts that have created unique cultural centers and prioritized visitor experiences, promote the districts and their supported activities, and provide technical assistance and professional development opportunities.
Program Benefits
Once certified, the State of Iowa, through IEDA, shall endeavor to promote projects and initiatives implemented by CEDs through established networks.
- Designated CEDs will be included in the Iowa Creative Places Network, which provides opportunities for connection through networking and learning opportunities with Creative Places across Iowa.
- Additionally, IEDA staff will provide technical assistance to CEDs, including communication on grant opportunities and professional development workshops.
Who Qualifies?
All applicants for certification must represent a public-private partnership.
- Private element
- Nonprofit community organization: Federally tax exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization incorporated and physically located in Iowa; or
- Local For-Profit Community Organization: Must be physically located in Iowa
- Public element
- Community: All cities and counties located in the State of Iowa are eligible to provide the Public Element, and two or more cities or counties may apply jointly if the district extends across a common boundary.
For more information, visit IEDA.
