Case Studies

ICON Water Trails

Along with dozens of other partners, the Great Outdoors Foundation incubated and launched this transformational quality of life initiative aimed at connecting 150 miles of water trails in Central Iowa.

Funding: $100M

Date: Ongoing

Conservation Acceleration Fund

Doubling down on our commitment to water quality, the Great Outdoors Foundation launched the Conservation Acceleration Fund in 2023 to maximize the scope and pace of critical water quality funding.

Leveraged: $8M+

Date: Ongoing

Conservation Foundation of Polk County

The next iteration of our multi-decade partnership with Polk County Conservation (PCC), the Great Outdoors Foundation helped incubate and launch the new organization garnering support for the incredible parks and programs led by PCC.

Funding: 

Date: 2026

Athene North Shore Recreation Area

The Great Outdoors Foundation acted as fiscal sponsor for this capital campaign activating one of the most universally accessible parks in the country.

Funding: In-Kind

Date: 2024

Athene Pedestrian Bridge

An iconic infrastructure project increasing trail connectivity for recreators in Central Iowa made possible by a capital campaign led by the Great Outdoors Foundation.

Funding: $3M

Date: 2023

Polk County Water & Land Legacy Bond

Through initial research and support funding, the Great Outdoors Foundation aided in activating this monumental funding for conservation.

Funding: $65M

Date: 2021

Jester Park Nature Center

The Great Outdoors Foundation led the $8 million capital campaign for the activation of this signature regional amenity supporting access to conservation and recreation.

Funding: $8 million

Date: 2016