The DRA focuses on social, economic, and community betterment, aiming to reduce the burden on Dubuque city and area government while supporting the growth and viability of local tourism.
The Core Grant program by the DRA emphasizes People Attraction, aiming for population growth, retention, and boosting tourism. It offers coaching by the DRA and partners and encourages applications that enhance community quality of life and the financial well-being of the tri-state area. A shift towards funding capacity building activities alongside material purchases has been noted, favoring projects that strengthen organizational skills, processes, resources, and relationships for a sustainable impact.