Introduction to Iowa’s Nonprofit Sector
The nonprofit sector in Iowa plays a crucial role in helping communities around the state by meeting urgent needs like healthcare, education, and hunger and homelessness.
With more than 15,000 officially recognized nonprofit organizations in Iowa, these purpose-driven organizations play a vital role in the state’s economy while offering vital services to its citizens.
With information on their activities, effects, and methods of interaction, this thorough reference examines the top nonprofits in Iowa.
According to the Nonprofit Association of the Midlands, over 11% of Iowa’s workforce is employed by non-profit organizations, which makes the sector a major economic engine in addition to its social responsibilities.
Iowa’s philanthropic sector, which ranges in size from little community-based groups to major statewide NGOs, demonstrates the state’s dedication to providing for its residents and fostering stronger communities.
Top Non Profit Organizations in Iowa by Category
Leading Human Services Nonprofits
The human services sector represents the largest category of nonprofits in Iowa, addressing critical needs related to poverty, food security, housing, and support for vulnerable populations.
Food Bank of Iowa (Des Moines)
As one of the state’s premier hunger-fighting organizations, the Food Bank of Iowa distributes millions of meals annually across 55 counties.
Their network includes over 700 partner agencies, making them one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations in Des Moines.
Website: www.foodbankiowa.org
Northeast Iowa Food Bank (Waterloo)
Serving 16 counties in northeast Iowa, this organization distributes over 7 million pounds of food annually to those in need through innovative programs like the BackPack Program for children.
Website: www.northeastiowafoodbank.org
Shelter House (Iowa City)
One of the most respected nonprofits in Iowa City, Shelter House provides housing and supportive services to homeless individuals and families.
Their Cross Park Place housing project has gained national recognition for its Housing First approach.
Website: www.shelterhouseiowa.org
Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Dubuque
Operating across 30 counties in northern Iowa, this organization provides counseling, disaster relief, immigration legal services, and housing assistance.
Website: www.catholiccharitiesdubuque.org
DMARC Food Pantry Network (Des Moines)
The Des Moines Area Religious Council operates one of Iowa’s largest food pantry networks, serving over 50,000 individuals annually, making it one of the most essential nonprofits in Des Moines.
Website: www.dmarcunited.org
Outstanding Healthcare Nonprofits
Healthcare nonprofits address critical health needs across Iowa, often serving populations with limited access to care.
UnityPoint Health (Statewide)
One of Iowa’s largest healthcare nonprofit organizations, UnityPoint operates hospitals and clinics across Iowa, providing quality care regardless of ability to pay.
Website: www.unitypoint.org
Free Clinics of Iowa (Statewide Network)
This network coordinates 35 free medical clinics across Iowa, providing healthcare services to uninsured and underinsured Iowans.
Website: www.freeclinicsofiowa.org
Iowa Cancer Consortium
This statewide coalition works to reduce the burden of cancer in Iowa through prevention, screening, and treatment initiatives.
Website: www.canceriowa.org
EveryStep (Des Moines)
Formerly known as HCI Care Services & Visiting Nurse Services of Iowa, EveryStep provides hospice, home care, and support services to Iowans facing serious illness or loss.
Website: www.everystep.org
Exceptional Educational Nonprofits
Educational nonprofits enhance learning opportunities and outcomes across Iowa.
Iowa College Foundation
This consortium of 23 private colleges works to raise funds for scholarships and educational programs across member institutions.
Website: www.iowacollegefoundation.org
Iowa Reading Research Center
Based at the University of Iowa, this center promotes evidence-based literacy practices across the state.
Website: www.iowareadingresearch.org
Science Center of Iowa (Des Moines)
One of the most visited nonprofit organizations in Des Moines, the Science Center provides interactive STEM education experiences for children and adults.
Website: www.sciowa.org
Iowa College Access Network
This organization helps Iowa students navigate college planning and financial aid processes.
Website: www.icansucceed.org
Environmental and Conservation Nonprofits
Iowa’s environmental nonprofits work to preserve natural resources and promote sustainability.
Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation
This statewide conservation leader has protected over 170,000 acres of Iowa’s land through direct acquisition and conservation easements.
Website: www.inhf.org
Iowa Environmental Council
As Iowa’s largest environmental coalition, this organization advocates for clean water, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture.
Website: www.iaenvironment.org
Bur Oak Land Trust (Iowa City)
Among the most active nonprofits in Iowa City focusing on conservation, this organization protects natural areas in Johnson County and surrounding areas.
Website: www.buroaklandtrust.org
Trees Forever
Based in Marion, this organization promotes tree planting and environmental stewardship across the Midwest.
Website: www.treesforever.org
Arts and Cultural Nonprofits
These organizations enrich Iowa’s cultural landscape through visual arts, music, theater, and cultural preservation.
Des Moines Art Center
Home to an internationally recognized collection of art, this center is one of the most prestigious non profits in Des Moines, offering free admission to its permanent collections.
Website: www.desmoinesartcenter.org
Iowa Arts Council
As the state’s official arts organization, the Council provides grants and support to artists and arts organizations across Iowa.
Website: www.iowaculture.gov/arts
Hancher Auditorium (Iowa City)
One of the leading nonprofit arts presenters in the Midwest, Hancher is a cornerstone of Iowa City’s cultural scene.
Website: www.hancher.uiowa.edu
Sioux City Symphony Orchestra
One of the major nonprofit organizations in Sioux City, Iowa, the orchestra provides professional musical performances and educational programs.
Website: www.siouxcitysymphony.org
Volunteer Opportunities in Iowa
Volunteer Opportunities Iowa City
Iowa City offers numerous volunteer opportunities through its vibrant nonprofit sector:
United Way of Johnson & Washington Counties
Coordinates volunteer placements with numerous local nonprofits and maintains a volunteer center matching skills with needs.
Website: www.unitedwayjwc.org/volunteer
Table to Table (Iowa City)
This food rescue organization relies on volunteers to collect and distribute food that would otherwise go to waste, serving other nonprofits in Iowa City that feed hungry people.
Website: www.table2table.org
Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center
Offers opportunities to help care for animals awaiting adoption.
Website: www.icanimalcenter.org/volunteer
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Johnson County
Mentoring program matching adult volunteers with children needing positive role models.
Website: www.bbbsjc.org
Volunteer Opportunities in Des Moines
Des Moines, as Iowa’s largest city, offers diverse volunteer options:
Volunteer Iowa (State Commission)
The state’s official volunteer coordination agency connects Iowans with service opportunities across all nonprofits in Iowa.
Website: www.volunteeriowa.org
United Way of Central Iowa
Coordinates volunteer efforts across numerous nonprofits in Des Moines through their volunteer engagement platform.
Website: www.unitedwaydm.org/volunteer
Des Moines Parks and Recreation
Offers environmental stewardship opportunities in city parks.
Website: www.dsm.city/parks/volunteer.php
Central Iowa Shelter & Services
Provides opportunities to serve the homeless population at one of the largest nonprofits in Des Moines.
Website: www.centraliowashelter.org
Starting a Nonprofit in Iowa
For those interested in starting a nonprofit in Iowa, understanding the legal requirements and best practices is essential.
Legal Requirements for 501c3 Iowa Organizations
Establishing a 501c3 Iowa nonprofit requires several key steps:
- Form an Iowa Nonprofit Corporation
- File Articles of Incorporation with the Iowa Secretary of State
- Pay the required filing fee ($20-$50)
- Create corporate bylaws
- Apply for Federal Tax-Exempt Status
- File IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ for 501c3 status
- Pay application fee ($275-$600 depending on organization size)
- Wait for IRS determination letter (typically 3-6 months)
- Register with the State of Iowa
- Register with the Iowa Department of Revenue for tax exemptions
- File for sales tax exemption if applicable
- Register with the Iowa Attorney General’s office if soliciting contributions
- Ongoing Compliance Requirements
- File annual reports with the Iowa Secretary of State
- Submit Form 990 series to IRS annually
- Maintain proper corporate records
The Nonprofit Association of Iowa and the State of Iowa Nonprofit Resource Directory provide resources for organizations going through this process.
Best Practices for New Nonprofits
Beyond legal requirements, successful nonprofits should:
- Develop a Strong Mission Statement
- Clearly articulate the organization’s purpose and who it serves
- Ensure the mission addresses an unmet need
- Build a Diverse and Skilled Board
- Recruit board members with complementary skills
- Ensure board diversity reflects the community served
- Create a Sustainable Funding Model
- Develop diverse revenue streams
- Create a realistic budget and financial plans
- Establish Community Partnerships
- Connect with existing nonprofit organizations in Iowa
- Avoid duplicating services already available
Resources for Iowa Nonprofit Organizations
State of Iowa Nonprofit Support
The State of Iowa provides several resources for nonprofit organizations:
- Iowa Secretary of State
Oversees nonprofit corporation filings and maintains the State of Iowa nonprofit organizations database.
Website: www.sos.iowa.gov/nonprofits - Iowa Department of Revenue
Provides information on state tax exemptions for nonprofits.
Website: www.tax.iowa.gov/nonprofit-organizations - Iowa Economic Development Authority
Offers grants and technical assistance to nonprofits involved in community development.
Website: www.iowaeda.com
Nonprofit Associations and Support Organizations
- Nonprofit Association of Iowa
Provides advocacy, training, and networking for Iowa’s nonprofit sector.
Website: www.nonprofitassociationofiowa.org - Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines
Offers resources and support for nonprofits in Des Moines and beyond.
Website: www.desmoinesfoundation.org - Iowa Council of Foundations
Network of grantmaking organizations that support Iowa nonprofits.
Website: www.iowacounciloffoundations.org - University of Iowa Nonprofit Resource Center
Provides technical assistance and research support for nonprofits.
Website: www.law.uiowa.edu/nrc
Iowa Nonprofit Organizations List by Region
Cedar Rapids Area Nonprofits
- United Way of East Central Iowa
Coordinates community impact initiatives across seven counties.
Website: www.uweci.org - Willis Dady Homeless Services
One of the leading nonprofit organizations in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, providing emergency shelter and supportive services.
Website: www.willisdady.org - Foundation 2 Crisis Services
Provides crisis intervention and prevention services across Eastern Iowa.
Website: www.foundation2.org - Matthew 25
Focuses on neighborhood revitalization and urban farming initiatives.
Website: www.hub25.org
Sioux City Area Nonprofits
- Food Bank of Siouxland
Distributes food to over 100 partner agencies across the region, making it one of the most impactful nonprofit organizations in Sioux City, Iowa.
Website: www.siouxlandfoodbank.org - Boys and Girls Home and Family Services
Provides residential treatment and behavioral health services for children and families.
Website: www.boysgirls.org - Siouxland Community Health Center
Federally qualified health center providing care regardless of ability to pay.
Website: www.slandchc.org
Other Regions
- Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque
Supports nonprofits across Northeast Iowa through grantmaking and capacity building.
Website: www.dbqfoundation.org - United Way of Wapello County (Ottumwa)
Addresses needs in southeast Iowa through collaborative initiatives.
Website: www.wapellocouw.org - North Iowa Community Action Organization (Mason City)
Provides comprehensive services to low-income families across nine counties.
Website: www.nicao.org
Conclusion
Iowa’s nonprofit sector represents a powerful force for good across the state, with thousands of organizations working to address community needs, enhance quality of life, and build a stronger future for all Iowans.
From the largest non profit organizations in Des Moines to small grassroots efforts in rural communities, these mission-driven entities exemplify Iowa’s spirit of neighborly care and commitment to community wellbeing.
Whether you’re seeking to support these organizations through volunteering, donations, or partnerships—or perhaps even starting a nonprofit in Iowa yourself—the resources highlighted in this guide provide pathways to meaningful engagement with Iowa’s vibrant nonprofit sector.
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