Idaho Gem Grant

The Idaho Gem Grant Program (IGG) is a competitive state funding initiative established by the Idaho Legislature in 2001 to support rural economic development. Administered by the Idaho Department of Commerce, the program is designed to assist rural communities—defined as those with populations under 10,000, or at the discretion of the Director, slightly larger areas—in the planning and implementation of economic development projects. The IGG is part of Idaho's broader Rural Initiative and aims to help communities attract and retain private-sector businesses through investment in infrastructure and planning. The program offers grant awards of up to $50,000 to eligible rural cities, counties, and tribal entities for projects that directly contribute to private-sector job creation. Applicants may apply for a wide range of economic development activities including the construction or engineering of public infrastructure (e.g., water lines, turn lanes, industrial park planning), tourism support, and community asset rehabilitation. Priority is given to projects with immediate and long-term economic impact. IGG funds cannot be used for operational or staffing costs, church or school facilities, general government buildings, political activity, or non-permanent mobile equipment. Applicants must demonstrate a 20% matching contribution, which may come from local, state, federal, or private sources and may include cash or in-kind contributions. A portion of the match—up to 5%—may be attributed to administrative costs but cannot be reimbursed by IGG funds. Applications are submitted online via the Idaho Commerce Grant Portal, and applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with the department before submission. Submission deadlines for FY26 are quarterly: June 16, 2025; September 15, 2025; December 15, 2025; and March 16, 2026. Applications are reviewed on a rolling quarterly basis, or as needed to capitalize on time-sensitive opportunities. Awarded grants operate on a reimbursement basis. Applicants must submit invoices and proof of payment through the portal, with oversight and signatures from local elected officials. Procurement must follow Idaho statutory requirements concerning bidding, licensing, and contracting for public works. Any budget or project changes require prior approval from Idaho Commerce. To apply, applicants must submit a resolution of support, budget documentation, confirmation of matching funds, and any supporting documents such as maps or engineering reports. Application support and technical assistance are available via grants@commerce.idaho.gov or by phone at (208) 287-3158. The program contact for IGG is Jules Belyea. Applicants are encouraged to download and review the FY26 application guide prior to beginning the application process.

Contact Idaho Commerce before submitting; match must be documented; procurement must follow state code; IGG funds are reimbursement-only and must be pre-approved.