Two research-based grant programs
The Iowa Water Center (IWC) administers two research-based grant programs funded through the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) with federal funds allocated through the Water Resources Research Act. These programs, as well as advertising for external funding opportunities, help us in our objective to plan, conduct, or otherwise arrange for research that addresses Iowa’s water resource needs.
Recent Funding Opportunties
Annual Statewide 104(b) Program
IWC’s annual competitive statewide program funds research that focuses on Iowa’s most pressing water resources needs. The Center’s advisory board sets the research priorities at their annual summer meeting, with the RFP released in the fall for funding that begins the following spring. Proposals are peer-reviewed for quality, impact, and appropriateness. Upon review, the advisory board makes funding recommendations to IWC staff; USGS gives final approval.
This program fosters collaboration among water-resource researchers at work in Iowa universities, state agencies, and federal offices located in Iowa. Funds available are set by the U.S. Congress and vary from year to year. At this time, the annual competitive statewide program awards proposals for a Targeted Seed Grant Research Competition (up to $20,000) and a Graduate Student Supplemental Research Competition (up to $5,000).
Annual Regional 104(g) Program
The annual regional grants program is jointly administered by USGS and the National Institutes for Water Resources (NIWR). Submissions to this national call are coordinated through each state’s Water Resources Research Institute (WRRI). An annual RFP is typically issued in November and publicized through IWC. Proposals are reviewed and submitted by IWC staff before undergoing peer review and selection by a national committee.
Research priorities are set by USGS and NIWR leadership. In recent years, priorities have included: advanced modeling tools to provide state-of-the-art flood and drought forecasts; research on societies coping with water scarcity or water availability challenges; development and evaluation of processes and governance mechanisms that advance the science of ecological flows; and exploration and advancement of our understanding of harmful algal blooms.
This program focuses on regional or interstate water resources concerns. It heavily favors collaborations between university researchers and USGS water scientists, particularly those located at USGS Water Science Centers. IWC encourages prospective applicants to engage with both the Center and potential collaborators early on in the proposal preparation process.
The Water Resources Research Institutes National Competitive Grants program for Aquatic Invasive Species is now accepting proposals
The Water Resources Research Institutes National Competitive Grants Program Accepting Proposals for Per-and Polyfluoroalkyl (PFAS) Substances
The Water Resources Research Institutes: National Competitive Grants Program (104G) Accepting Proposals
Questions on Funding Opportunities?
Contact us today to learn more about all of our funding opportunities.