Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) Program
Funding provided to assist projects that will provide recreational, cultural, entertainment and educational attractions. Projects must be available to the general public for public use and be primarily vertical infrastructure. “Vertical infrastructure” means land acquisition and construction, major renovation and major repair of buildings, all appurtenant structures, utilities, site development, and recreational trails.
Eligible Project Criteria
Generally, all vertical infrastructure costs of the project are eligible for CAT funding. Eligible expenses could also include fixtures or equipment that are integral to the structure and operation of the building.
Museums
Theme parks
Cultural and recreational centers
Recreational trails
Heritage attractions
Sports arenas
Acquisition of lands to be used for recreational boating/canoeing access
Additional Requirements and Information
A tourism facility is defined as a location that draws people into the community from at least 50 miles (one way) from home.
Typical CAT awards are no more than 10%-20% of the final negotiated project cost, though recent awards averaged 14-16% of project costs.
A 65% match commitment is required upon application. Up to 25% of the match may include non-financial resources, such as in-kind services.
Contact the EI Program Manager for the application form. A Notice of Intent to Apply is required before submitting an application. Submit applications to enhanceiowa@iowaeda.com
Source
Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA)
Eligible Applicants
Cities
Counties
Nonprofit organizations
School districts as a co-applicant with a city or county
Application Deadline
February 15, 2024 and May 15, 2024 (subject to available funds)
Award Announcement
Applicants will be made aware of funding decisions after a full application review is completed.
Contact Person
Alaina Santizo
Iowa Economic Development Authority
1963 Bell Ave. Suite 200
Des Moines, IA 50315
Phone: (515) 348-6162
Maicie Pohlman
Iowa Economic Development Authority
1963 Bell Ave. Suite 200
Des Moines, IA 50315
Phone: (515) 348-6161