Rural Economic Development Professional (Rural ED Pro) Grant Program
Forecasted
The Rural ED Pro Grant funds full-time professionals to strengthen business and community development in rural Idaho through targeted economic initiatives.
Funder: Idaho Department of Commerce
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (projected) | June 2027 (projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $32,000 per grant; requires at least $16,000 local cash match; annual award, typically for one year.
Summary: Supports hiring full-time economic development professionals to advance business and community development in rural Idaho.
Key Information: Applicants must be Idaho counties or joint powers agreements; funds may only be used for salary and benefits.
Description
The Rural Economic Development Professional (Rural ED Pro) Grant Program is designed to boost economic capacity in Idaho’s rural communities by funding the employment of full-time economic development professionals. These professionals, managed by local boards, focus on business retention, expansion, attraction, and community development, with the goal of strengthening local economies. The program is part of a statewide effort, leveraging the expertise of 18 professionals across seven regions in Idaho.
