$1.3M+ in support distributed last year
22 Member colleges & universities
70% Graduates remain in Iowa to live and work
70+ years Serving students & strengthening private education
For more than 70 years, the Iowa College Foundation (ICF) has united Iowa’s independent colleges and universities with business and community leaders to make higher education accessible, affordable, and impactful. Our mission is simple yet powerful: provide students the opportunity for an affordable, high-quality education by securing financial resources for our member private colleges and universities.
ICF’s 23 member colleges and universities are liberal arts schools that are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, have autonomous boards of control and derive their income primarily from private sources.
The Iowa College Foundation’s Board of Governors brings together up to 35 of Iowa’s most respected business leaders alongside the presidents of our 22 member colleges and universities. This diverse group provides strategic guidance, champions our mission, and ensures ICF’s work strengthens both students and Iowa’s future workforce.
ICF’s budget is reviewed and approved annually by the Board of Governors and supported by our member institutions, with independent audits ensuring transparency and trust. Scholarships and program funds are distributed to our member colleges twice each year — in December and June — directly supporting students and strengthening campus resources. We are committed to openness in all we do, and our audited financial statements and IRS Form 990s are available upon request.
Each year, ICF leads a statewide campaign in partnership with college presidents, advancement teams, board members, and business leaders. Together, we connect with approximately 1,000 companies — based in Iowa — to invest in scholarships and programs that strengthen students and communities.
ICF is part of a national network of 28 state and regional foundations represented by the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) in Washington, D.C. Together, these organizations support nearly 600 independent colleges and universities, amplifying the voice of private higher education nationwide.
Whether you’re an individual, business, or foundation, your partnership with ICF opens doors for students, strengthens Iowa’s workforce, and preserves the legacy of independent higher education in our state.
With more than 70% of the graduates from our member schools choosing their livelihoods and careers in Iowa, we are poised to meet the future internship and employment needs of our state and beyond.
Donate to ICF