Heartland Coalition Investment Program
Investing in the Communities of Southwest Iowa and Northwest Missouri
About the Program
The Heartland Coalition Investment Program (HCIP) is a regional community investment initiative created by Farmers Mutual Telephone Company (FMTC), IAMO Communications, and Farmers Mutual Cooperative Telephone Company (FMCTC) — three companies that have served rural communities across Southwest Iowa and Northwest Missouri for generations.
The program was made possible through a new regional data infrastructure project developed in partnership with The Way Forward, which also serves as the program's administrator. As part of that partnership, a share of the project's ongoing revenue is directed permanently back into the communities these three companies serve.
Our vision is a region where rural communities compete successfully for new employers, students can pursue higher education while staying connected to home, and local governments have the resources to invest in transformational projects — measured by businesses attracted, jobs created, students supported, and communities strengthened.
Our Regional Footprint
The program invests across the full combined service territory of FMTC, IAMO, and FMCTC — spanning Southwest Iowa and Northwest Missouri. Investments are intended to benefit the entire region, not any single town or state, and priorities are set with equitable attention to communities across both states.
Supported Programs
The program supports three community initiatives:
Rural Infrastructure Loan Fund
Low- and no-interest loans to help businesses relocate to our region but face upfront infrastructure costs — utilities, connectivity, or facility preparation. Loans are repaid over time and recycled back into the fund to support future projects.
Rural Scholarship Fund
Scholarships for students across our region pursuing accredited programs at four-year universities, community colleges, or trade and technical schools.
Community Investment Fund
Direct investment in locally identified projects — things like broadband infrastructure, community centers, business incubators, public health initiatives, parks, and other community priorities.
Governance and Accountability
The program is overseen by the Coalition Board, with FMTC, IAMO, and FMCTC each holding equal representation — ensuring investment decisions reflect the interests of the entire region, not any single company or community. Board membership also includes regional leaders with expertise in economic development, education, business, and local government.
The Way Forward (TWF) serves as Program Administrator, managing day-to-day operations, community engagement, and performance reporting on behalf of the Coalition Board.