Creative Places Accelerator
Forecasted
Creative Places Accelerator supports cross-sector teams in small to midsize Iowa communities with training and arts-based project planning to strengthen livability, economic development, and connectedness.
Funder: Iowa Arts and Culture
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: $1,500 initial payment plus up to $1,500 reimbursement; separate project implementation grant up to $25,000
Summary: A year-long accelerator helps cross-sector teams in small to midsize Iowa communities develop arts-based placemaking or placekeeping projects.
Key Information: Communities must form a 3–4-person cross-sector leadership team committed to participating in all program workshops.
Description
The Creative Places Accelerator is a year-long program run by Iowa Arts and Culture through the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA). It brings together cross-sector teams from small to midsize Iowa communities to develop arts-based projects that advance livability, economic development, and community connectedness. Projects focus on creative placemaking or placekeeping and are expected to demonstrate positive impact on their communities.
The accelerator combines training, networking, technical assistance, and grant opportunities rather than providing project funding alone. Professional development includes two in-person workshops, community engagement and planning, and virtual project-development check-ins. Outside experts, statewide creative placemaking partners, and IEDA Arts Division staff support participating teams. Recipients also have an opportunity to apply separately for an Art Project Grant to implement their projects.
