The F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation provides grant funding to support the arts in southeastern Idaho, continuing the legacy of Beverly Bistline, a passionate advocate for arts accessibility and education. Established to honor the values of Beverly and her parents, the foundation aims to foster community enrichment by advancing artistic growth, education, and participation within the region.

This grant opportunity is managed through the Idaho Community Foundation (ICF), and applications are accepted in two annual cycles. The spring cycle deadline is May 1, with award notifications expected in late June. The fall cycle deadline is November 1, with notifications issued in December. Applications are reviewed by three designated fund advisors: Bruce Bistline (Boise), Alan Van Orden (Pocatello), and Jesse Robison (Pocatello).

Eligible applicants must be located in one or more of the following Idaho counties: Bannock, Bingham, Bear Lake, Caribou, Franklin, Oneida, and Power. Organizations must qualify as either 501(c)(3) public charities under IRS code 170, public educational institutions, or government entities including local governments and libraries.

Grants fall into two categories. The first category supports public-facing arts activities such as concerts, performances, art classes, exhibitions, or educational seminars. Funding in this category may be used for expenses like musical instrument acquisition or repair, performance facility improvements, production costs, or travel and lodging for visiting artists. The second category supports local artist development through education, training, performance opportunities, or scholarships. Scholarship funding must be awarded by recipient organizations using fair, non-discriminatory practices and should consider financial need.

Typical grant awards range from $3,000 to $10,000, though larger requests may be considered. The foundation is known to prioritize proposals that demonstrate potential for long-term sustainability, whether through increased community support or earned revenue strategies such as ticket sales. Organizations are encouraged to explain how they plan to achieve self-sufficiency when applicable.

Grant applications must be submitted via the ICF online portal. Recipients are required to submit an End of Grant Report one year after the application deadline of their respective cycle. For assistance, applicants may contact ICF staff at Grants@idahocf.org or call 208-342-3535. Technical issues with the application portal should be directed to ApplicantPortal@idahocf.org.