Partner with the University of Iowa's Initiative for Sustainable Communities (IISC) in 2026-2027

Do you have great ideas to improve your community but not enough time and resources? 

Imagine 100+ creative, passionate, and dedicated University of Iowa students and faculty working to make a difference in your community. That's exactly what we've been doing in communities across Iowa through IISC.

Your community could be our next partner! 

Fill out this short questionnaire to register your interest by January 15, 2026.

A collaborative process

IISC brings University of Iowa students to communities across the state to collaborate with local leaders on real-world projects. IISC has been around since 2009 and has completed nearly 500 projects in more than 60 rural and urban areas across the state.  

Through enhanced community partnerships, IISC invests University of Iowa faculty and student time to increase the capacity of Iowa communities to accomplish meaningful projects. By taking students out of the classroom and into communities to complete real-world projects, IISC accomplishes two university-wide goals: building up communities across the state and providing hands-on experience for current students and future leaders.

How does IISC work?

IISC nationally-recognized and award-winning model creates mutually beneficial partnerships with communities across our state to advance shared goals. Each year, we undertake what we refer to as full partnerships with two or three communities in the state to complete 10 or more projects from a variety of disciplines, including planning, engineering, public art, GIS, community branding, and much more. 

West Branch is the IISC partner this year, and examples of past partners include Dubuque, Bondurant, Pathfinders RC&D, Jackson County, West Burlington & Burlington, and the Maquoketa River Watershed Management Authority. Cities, county governments, regions, and multi-jurisdictional collaborators are eligible to apply. Previous community partners of IISC may also apply.

Positive ROI

We're thrilled that past IISC partners report positive returns on investment (ROI) from a financial perspective - such as a $60,000 consultant credit for one engineering project in West Burlington and nearly $550,000 in grants for Manchester - and equally excited that partnerships build and strengthen social capital. Residents and community leaders coalesce around this unique initiative, tapping into the enthusiasm, creativity, and talent of University of Iowa faculty and students. 

How to Apply?

We've created an easy online process for communities to let us know that they are interested in becoming a full IISC partner for 2026-2027. Fill out the short questionnaire and we will be in touch with you to talk more about your needs. If IISC's model and community goals align, communities will be invited to submit a full application.

Questions? Contact iisc@uiowa.edu.