Revitalize Iowa's Sound Economy Program (RISE)
The RISE Program from the Iowa Department of Transportation funds new and improved public roads that support industrial, commercial, and tourism-related economic development in Iowa.
Funder: Iowa Department of Transportation
Due Dates: February 1, 2027 | September 1, 2027
Funding Amounts: Local Development: Up to 50% of eligible project costs (higher for Certified Sites); Immediate Opportunity: Up to 80% of costs or $14,000 per job; typical awards $50,000–$1M+
Summary: Supports economic growth in Iowa by funding public road and street projects that enable new value-added development, targeting industries that bring new economic activity to the state.
Key Information: Only counties and cities may apply; private entities must partner with a local government.
Description
The Iowa Department of Transportation's RISE (Revitalize Iowa's Sound Economy) Program provides funding to Iowa counties and cities for the creation, construction, and improvement of public roads and streets that directly support economic development. The program is specifically designed to enable new value-adding industrial, manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and professional office developments, as well as significant tourism resources, by ensuring necessary transportation infrastructure is in place.
There are two main project types:
- Local Development: Supports speculative or planned development areas, such as industrial parks or certified sites, where future RISE-eligible businesses are expected.
- Immediate Opportunity: Addresses urgent, non-speculative opportunities for job creation or retention tied to a specific business decision.
RISE funding is not available for routine maintenance, residential, retail, or personal service developments, nor for private roads.
