In addition to being awarded funding, every applicant that successfully applies to start an idea in their community in Greater Des Moines will receive a range of supports including:

• A 5 step starter guide for your chosen project


• Free tech tools & website to help get your project started and manage your group


• Advice & support via email and phone

The Greater Des Moines Community Challenge is open to existing groups and individuals (once they form a team) to start new projects, or expand an existing project, in their community across the Des Moines Metropolitan Area.

You can choose to select from the portfolio of ideas on the ChangeX site (https://www.changex.org/us/desmoines-community-challenge) that address environmental issues and improve community wellbeing.

If you're applying with an existing project, the project must address one of the following thematic issues:

• Environmental Sustainability


• Digital Skills


• Community Prosperity

Examples of eligible groups include schools, universities, colleges, daycares, churches or other faith-based organizations, hospitals and hospital rehabilitation centers, mental health facilities, community gardens, neighborhood groups, senior centers, community centers.

There is a total fund of $55,000 available to help support new community projects across the Des Moines Metropolitan Area. Each applicant who successfully completes a 30 Day Challenge and an Impact Challenge will receive funding amounts ranging from $500-$5,000 to help get their selected project off the ground.

The steps to complete the 30 Day Challenge include:

• Scheduling a 15 min call with one of the ChangeX team


• Recruiting 4 people to join your team


• Hosting a kick-off meeting


• Sharing a team photo & a short action plan 

If you are applying with your own community project, there will be a review process, and those applications that best fit the criteria will be allocated funding. You will then complete a simplified 30 Day Challenge and an Impact Challenge to receive your funding.