News and Resources

The Ames Community Arts Council and the Octagon Center for the Arts have opened registration for the Business of Art Conference scheduled on March 6-7 at Reiman Gardens in Ames.The conference is designed to strengthen skills and resources in both formally trained and self-taught creatives. Conference topics include marketing tactics...Continue Reading

With funding support from the Iowa legislature, a collaborative team at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is launching a peer-to-peer learning network and a free webinar series for independent grocers across Iowa. The Iowa Independent Grocer Network will support local, independent grocers through engagement, professional development opportunities, and technical...Continue Reading

Prairie Meadows is now accepting grant applications for its 2026 Legacy Grant, Community Betterment Grant, and Youth Sports and Recreational Grant programs. The application deadline for these three grant programs is 5 p.m. on Friday, February 27, 2026.Through its three grant programs, Prairie Meadows supports Iowa nonprofit organizations that support...Continue Reading

Through a partnership with Diamond Vogel Paint of Orange City, Iowa, nonprofit, public, and private entities can apply to receive reimbursement for paint purchased for community enhancement projects.The Paint Iowa Beautiful program is administered by Keep Iowa Beautiful, with the paint provided by the Diamond Vogel Paint Company. The program provides...Continue Reading

Keep Iowa Beautiful will award three $1,000 scholarships to graduating Iowa high school seniors who have a history of volunteerism and demonstrate dedication to their community. To be eligible, graduating seniors must plan to enroll in an Iowa college or university.The scholarship application deadline is January 31, 2026. Scholarship recipients...Continue Reading