Idaho Fish & Wildlife Foundation Grants Program

The Idaho Fish & Wildlife Foundation (IFWF) administers a competitive annual grants program aimed at furthering its mission to partner with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) in sustaining the state's fishing, hunting, and wildlife heritage. This includes support for habitat restoration, improved public access, conservation education, and responsible use of resources. Funding is made available exclusively for projects within Idaho and is intended to support new or distinct project phases rather than ongoing or multi-year efforts. The program targets tax-exempt organizations, government agencies focused on natural resources, and volunteer organizations with proper fiscal sponsorship and endorsement. Eligible applicants include the IDFG, other government agencies involved in natural resources, and tax-exempt nonprofits. Volunteer groups may apply if they have secured a fiscal sponsor and provided a signed endorsement letter from that sponsoring organization. The program does not accept applications from individuals, nor will it fund salaries (except for project-based contract personnel), advocacy or fundraising efforts, ongoing operating costs, or pass-through grants. Each proposal must stand alone as a fully fundable initiative or as a clearly defined phase of a broader project. Only a single lead applicant may apply on behalf of any consortium or partnership. Applications must be submitted between January 31 and April 30, 2026. The Foundation does not accept late submissions, and all applications must include required signatures and supporting documentation. An applicant’s prior incomplete projects disqualify them from applying until all outstanding obligations have been met. The Foundation's funding cap per grant is $10,000, and while a 1:1 funding match is preferred, it is not mandatory. Project completion and expenditure of all grant funds must occur by December 31, 2027. The application process requires several components: a cover sheet with essential contact and authorization information, a four-page project narrative, a completed budget form, and financial documentation for 501(c)(3) nonprofits or fiscal sponsors. The narrative should explain the applicant’s services, outline the project’s objectives and expected outcomes, discuss sustainability and future maintenance, and include visuals such as maps or photos when applicable. Budget forms must show committed or pending revenue sources, itemized expenses, and adhere to specific formatting. Volunteer labor must be assigned a rate and calculated accordingly. Financial disclosures must include audited financials or 990 forms and unaudited year-end statements. Evaluation is conducted by a committee composed of IFWF board members. Submissions are judged on their alignment with the Foundation’s mission and the potential impact of the proposed project. Coordination with IDFG is encouraged, and endorsements from the agency are viewed favorably. Award announcements are expected by August 31, 2026. All required materials—including support letters—must be included in the original submission; separately sent documents will not be accepted. Applications can be submitted via mail to the Foundation’s Boise P.O. box or emailed to [email protected]. Applicants are responsible for confirming receipt of their submission. For questions, applicants may contact the Foundation by phone. The guidelines emphasize clarity and completeness—only thoroughly prepared, mission-aligned proposals will be considered.

Submit a complete application packet with all required components and ensure alignment with IFWF’s mission. IDFG endorsement is beneficial.