The Iowa Finance Authority and Iowa Realtors have announced two statewide initiatives: the Meaning of Homeownership Contest and the Iowa Homeownership Incubator. The Iowa Homeownership Incubator will challenge lending institutions, real estate brokerages and housing organizations to submit creative proposals focused on advancing financial literacy and awareness of homeownership assistance programs, especially those supporting low- to moderate-income Iowans. Finalists will pitch their ideas live at the HousingIowa Conference in Cedar Rapids on Sept. 3 and the winning team will receive $20,000 to develop their plan. The Meaning of Homeownership contest invites Iowans who have not yet owned a home to share what homeownership would mean to them by submitting a short reflection and a photo. Up to five winners will be selected to receive a $1,000 gift card and will be connected with homeownership resources to help them purchase a house. Submissions for both initiatives are due by 5 p.m. Aug. 1. For more information or to enter, click here.