The DRA, a leading gaming and entertainment organization in Dubuque, announced today the recipients of its 2025 Core Grant program, awarding more than $1 million in grant funding to 52 organizations across the tri-state area. In total, $1,070,248 will be distributed this year, with an average grant award of $20,582 per organization.
The Core Grant program supports grant requests up to $50,000 and focuses on people attraction initiatives – such as population growth, retention, and tourism – with a strong preference for capacity-building opportunities and essential material purchases.
“This is an exciting time for the DRA and our Core Grant program,” said Lori Thielen, Chair of the DRA Board of Directors. “We are proud to support the important work of these organizations that are making a real difference in their communities. By investing in programs that help strengthen the region’s long-term vitality, the DRA continues to fulfill its mission of creating a lasting community impact.”
This year, the DRA received 140 total requests, all of which underwent a thorough review by DRA staff and the grant committee before final funding decisions were made. Of the awarded grants 47 organizations are based in Iowa, four in Wisconsin, and one in Illinois. Five organizations received 100% of their original funding requests, while 12 received at least 50% or more of their requested amount.
“We are intentional about how we evaluate and award these funds,” said Mandy Miller, DRA’s Manager of Strategic Philanthropy. “This focus and strategic approach ensures that every dollar we distributed supports projects with strong potential for positive and permanent outcomes in the communities we serve.”
The Core Grant program continues to be a key part of the DRA’s overall philanthropic strategy, providing critical support to initiatives that help attract and retain people, enhance community amenities, and build capacity within local organizations.
Wendy Runde, Vice President and General Manager of the Diamond Jo Casino, emphasized the broader community impact of the DRA’s efforts: “The DRA’s commitment to giving back is made possible through the success of both Q Casino + Resort and Diamond Jo Casino. Together, we attract thousands of visitors each year from Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin and beyond – driving tourism and supporting the communities we proudly serve.”
The DRA is the non-profit entity that owns and operates Q Casino + Resort and serves as co-licensee for Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque. Revenues generated by both properties directly support DRA’s philanthropic initiatives across the region.
Since 1985, the DRA has awarded more than 5,500 grants, totaling over $67 million, to well over 1,500 organizations in the tri-state area of Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois.
For more information on DRA funding opportunities and news, including a list of the 2025 Core Grant recipients, please visit: https://dradubuque.com/.