The Idaho Gem Grant Program (IGG), administered by the Idaho Department of Commerce, aims to support rural communities in their economic development efforts. Designed to stimulate job creation and retention, this grant provides financial assistance for planning and executing projects that enhance local economies. It focuses specifically on hard implementation costs, excluding routine operating expenses, salaries, and administrative overhead. The program reflects Idaho’s commitment to bolstering small rural communities and ensuring they have the resources to support private-sector growth.

Eligible projects under the Idaho Gem Grant Program include infrastructure development such as water and sewer systems for new businesses, remediation of conditions that inhibit economic progress, and co-funding initiatives that develop assets with a high likelihood of spurring further economic development. Importantly, the funds cannot be used for general government operations, religious or educational institutions, or for political purposes.

Only rural communities with populations of 10,000 or fewer are eligible to apply, and the application must be submitted by a city, county, or tribal government. Previously, communities needed to be designated as “Gem Communities,” but this requirement was removed in 2005. The grants can be awarded up to $50,000, though the Idaho Department of Commerce gives preference to proposals that demonstrate fiscal responsibility and financial conservatism.

Applications are reviewed quarterly, with submission deadlines falling on the third Monday of March, June, September, and December. However, the program also permits submissions at the discretion of the Idaho Commerce director to seize unique economic opportunities. All applications must be submitted online through the Idaho Commerce grant portal, and potential applicants are encouraged to initiate contact with the department prior to submission.

Interested parties can reach the Idaho Gem Grant team at 208-287-0780 or by emailing grants@commerce.idaho.gov. Additional engagement is encouraged through the Idaho Commerce website, which also provides an online form for inquiries. The IGG program offers a significant opportunity for small Idaho communities to gain the resources needed for transformative economic projects.