Iowa Charter Schools Program Grant
Iowa Charter Schools Program Grant supports public charter schools in opening, expanding, and replicating high-quality models to broaden access for underserved students and advance innovative education.
Funder: Iowa Department of Education
Due Dates: October 2, 2026 (Notice of Intent) | February 3, 2027, 11:59 p.m. (Application)
Funding Amounts: Generally up to $1.2 million for start-up, $780,000 for expansion, or $1 million for replication; up to five years or through FY30, whichever comes first
Summary: Supports the opening, expansion, and replication of high-quality Iowa charter schools, particularly those serving disadvantaged students or offering innovative programming.
Key Information: FY27 expansion applicants cannot have received CSP start-up funding; replication applications begin in FY28.
Description
The Iowa Charter Schools Program (Iowa CSP), administered by the Iowa Department of Education, supports the development, expansion, and sustainability of high-quality public charter schools. It is funded through the U.S. Department of Education’s Expanding Opportunities Through Quality Charter Schools Program—Grants to State Entities (ALN 84.282A). Iowa’s federal award totals $43,285,068 over FY26–FY30.
The program funds planning and implementation for new schools, enrollment or grade-level growth at existing high-quality schools, and replication of proven school models. Its priorities include expanding access for disadvantaged or underserved students and supporting innovative educational programming. Applicants must demonstrate evidence-based practices in governance, leadership, instruction, data-informed decision-making, and student support to promote strong academic outcomes and post-high-school success.
