The Iowa Department of Economic Development is moving ahead with a program designed to encourage philanthropic organizations in the state. Tina Hoffman of the D-E-D says they’re partnering with the Iowa Council of Foundations to move ahead. She says part of the Iowa Values Fund legislation included an “Endow Iowa” component, which is a grants program that provides matching funds to new and existing foundations that address community needs. Hoffman says the program helps communities promote philanthrophy locally. She says communities have different efforts and focuses that’re important to the growth of their community and this allows them to invest in those specific interests and helps with the overall growth from the state perspective. Hoffman says the grants will be awarded to communities based on a points system. She says there will be six grants of up to 25-thousand dollars each, with the applications due on March first and the awards will be announced on April first. Hoffman says Iowa tax credits will also be awarded in conjunction with the grants. Applications for the grants can be found at:www.iowalifechanging.com.