Idaho Gem Grants

Idaho Gem Grants (IGG) are an extension of the Idaho’s Rural Initiative. The purpose of the program is to develop public assets for job creation and economic development. In 2007 the Idaho Legislature appropriated $400,000 for the IGG program

Eligible Applicants

Rural cities with a population below 10,000 residents and counties working with unincorporated rural communities are eligible applicants for these funds. Cities and counties may seek Idaho Gem Grant funds on behalf of special districts (water, sewer, highway etc), tribal governments and not for profit organizations. Under special circumstances Idaho Gem Grants may be awarded to larger communities whose population figures are skewed by temporary residents or for projects whose direct benefits will reach into rural communities.

Gem Communities

In 2005 the Idaho Legislature dropped the requirement that applicants to this program have a “Gem Community Certification” and maintain active “Gem Community Status”. Thus, the program is now open to any rural community meeting the eligibility criteria.

Eligible Activities

Idaho Gem Grants are limited to the hard implementation costs of economic development projects. Some examples of eligible cost items include: construction materials, new and rehabilitative construction, architectural and engineering services; and property acquisition.

Grant Size and Local Match

The maximum grant amount is $50,000 and a 20% match is required.

Selection

All Idaho Gem Grant proposals are screened by department staff, and if fundable, recommended to the director for award. While a wide array of projects are eligible for consideration priority is given to those applications demonstrating direct and immediate job creation benefits.

Application Deadlines

Applications for this grant program may be submitted at anytime. A typical application takes six weeks to review however, this timeline may be compressed by working with the Idaho Department of Commerce prior to submitting an application.

Additional Information

For additional information check the Idaho Department of Commerce Web site or contact Jerry Miller at (208) 334-2650 ext 2143.