Founded in 1997, the Iowa Barn Foundation is an all-volunteer, all-state organization dedicated to preserving Iowa's rural agricultural buildings. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation, its mission focuses on educating the public about the significance and importance of Iowa’s barns through publications and barn tours. It raises funds for barn rehabilitation or restoration matching grants for property owners and recognizes outstanding restoration efforts with Awards of Distinction. Additionally, it ensures the perpetuation of agriculturally and economically self-sustaining farms and farmland according to the owner’s wishes.
The Iowa Barn Foundation's grant program focuses on the preservation of Iowa's agricultural heritage, specifically targeting barns which symbolize much of this history. It offers matching grants to property owners for the rehabilitation or restoration of their barns, enabling these structures to be maintained as significant elements of Iowa’s landscape. Additionally, the Foundation recognizes individuals who independently fund the restoration of qualifying barns with an Award of Distinction. New to their repertoire in October 2023 is the Preservation Award program, acknowledging historic barns preserved with modern exterior materials while maintaining significant interior architectural details. Awardees gain the opportunity to showcase their barns in the annual state-wide fall barn tour and receive a plaque.