The Forever Idaho Grant Program, offered by the Idaho Community Foundation (ICF), is a flexible, community-driven funding opportunity designed to address evolving needs across Idaho's regions. Supported by donor contributions, the program distributes general operating grants to nonprofits and governmental entities serving Idaho communities. Emphasizing local knowledge and grassroots engagement, the program allows grantees to allocate funds toward a broad array of operational or programmatic needs, including payroll, utilities, capital improvements, equipment, and project costs.
This statewide initiative is divided into four distinct regional cycles, each with specific application deadlines and geographic eligibility. Organizations located in or serving the Northern or Eastern regions must apply by June 15, while those in the Southwestern or South Central regions must submit their applications by August 15. Eligible counties are clearly delineated for each region, and applicants may apply based either on the location of their office or the area they serve.
The grant review process involves ICF Regional Councils, composed of volunteer community members with deep connections and experience in Idaho’s social sector. These councils review and recommend grant awards, which are finalized by ICF’s Board of Directors. For the Northern and Eastern cycles, applicants can expect award decisions by September, while those in the Southwest and South Central regions are notified by November.
Grants typically range from $3,000 to $8,000, with a maximum allowable request of $25,000. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities and governmental entities, including public schools. Applicants are also required to select an impact area that best aligns with their work, such as Arts & Culture, Community Benefit, Educational & Economic Opportunities, Environment & Animal Welfare, Health and Wellness, or Housing Stability.
To apply, organizations must log into their ICF portal account, navigate to the “Opportunities” section, and select the applicable regional grant cycle. Unlike many other funding programs, Forever Idaho does not require final reporting; instead, grantees are encouraged to share informal updates, stories, or photos that illustrate how the funding is making an impact in their communities. For questions, applicants can contact ICF via email at grants@idahocf.org or by phone at (208) 342-3535.
