FAQ's



  1. Who can apply?
  2. How many Dream Big Grow Here Central Iowa Grants will be awarded?
  3. What kind of ideas are you looking for?
  4. When can I submit my idea?
  5. Can an online-only business win?
  6. How does voting work?
  7. How do I increase the odds of winning for my favorite small business?
  8. If I am a Grant Recipient, when will I get my funds?
  9. Where can I review the Official Rules? 
  10. None of these FAQs answer the questions I have.

Who can apply?
All legal residents of the state of Iowa of the Counties of Henry, Des Moines, Lee, Louisa, Van Buren and Jefferson, who are 18 years of age or older.  


How many Dream Big Grow Here Central Iowa Grants will be awarded?
There will be 1 grant winner selected for this regional grant contest.

What kind of ideas are you looking for?
We are looking for ideas from early stage or pre-startup businesses.  Ideas need to be well thought out, feasible, and interesting.  We also encourage applicants to think about how their business can better the community around them.  All businesses must be based within the aforementioned Iowa counties.

When can I submit my idea?
Submissions will be accepted beginning at 12:00:00 PM CDT on 8/1/2011 and will end at 12:00:00 PM CDT on 9/2/2011 12:00:00 PM CST.

Can an online-only business win?  
Yes, but the business must be based in Iowa counties identified above.  

How does voting work?
Voting will begin on 9/3/2011 at 12:00:00 AM CDT and will end on 9/15/2011 at 11:59:00 PM CDT.  Individuals are allowed to vote once per day for as many entries as they desire.  The entry with the most votes at the end of the voting period will be the Dream Big Grow Here Southeast Iowa Grant Recipient.  In the event of a vote tie, the staff at Dream Big Grow Here Northeast Iowa will cast the final tie-breaking vote to determine a winner.

How do I increase the odds of winning for my favorite small business?
Get the word out!  Use your social media networks, word of mouth marketing, and other creative marketing ideas to encourage others to vote for your business.  For other ideas, read this blog post on how to win the Dream Big Grow Here contest!

If I am a Grant Recipient, when will I get my funds?
As soon as possible!   We want to help you get your business started fast!  Grant Recipients will receive their funds within two weeks after you have signed a Grant Agreement and completed a verification process.

Where can I review the Official Rules? 
Click Here to view the official rules.

None of these FAQs answer the questions I have.
If your issue remains unresolved, you can email info@dreambiggrowhere.  We will try to respond within 72 hours.