Community Foundation endowment challenge now open
Double your gift
Beginning March 9, the Quad Cities Community Foundation invites donors to double the impact of new endowment gifts while also taking advantage of valuable state tax benefits.
The 2026 Endowment Match Challenge is designed to encourage long-term investment in the causes, organizations, and places that make the Quad Cities a strong and vibrant region.
This year’s challenge includes $45,000 in matching funds. All new gifts to an endowment fund at the Community Foundation will be matched dollar for dollar, up to $1,000 per donor entity (one gift per individual, couple, corporation, or nonprofit). Fund-to-fund transfers are not eligible for the match.
For donors, the impact is immediate and lasting. A $1,000 gift becomes $2,000, permanently supporting nonprofit organizations, scholarship funds, and community priorities for generations to come. Endowment gifts provide stable, reliable funding that communities can depend on year after year.
In addition to the match, many endowment gifts may qualify for Illinois Gives and Endow Iowa 25 percent state tax credits. When combined with the match, these credits can significantly reduce a donor’s state tax liability, making this challenge one of the most powerful giving opportunities of the year. Donors are encouraged to contact the Community Foundation’s development team to learn how these incentives may apply to their gift.
“This challenge is about creating momentum,” said Anne Calder, vice president of philanthropy at the Community Foundation. “Endowment giving allows donors to turn generosity into something permanent. By combining matching dollars with state tax credits, we’re making it easier than ever for people to invest in the long-term health of our region.”
Matching funds are available only while they last. Once the full $45,000 has been claimed, the 2026 Endowment Match Challenge will close.
“Together, we can grow lasting resources for nonprofits, students, and our shared community,” said Calder. “These gifts strengthen the Quad Cities for today, and for the future we’re building together.”
Make your gift go further. Multiply your impact. Invest in our region’s future. Click here to give today.