Rural Economic Development Professional (Rural ED Pro) Grant Program
This grant funds full-time economic development professionals in rural Idaho to support local business growth and community development.
Funder: Idaho Department of Commerce
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $35,000 for full-time programs; up to $15,000 for part-time; 55% cash match required.
Summary: Supports Idaho rural communities in hiring full-time economic development professionals to drive local business and community growth.
Key Information: Only Idaho counties or joint powers agreements between cities and counties are eligible applicants.
Description
The Rural Economic Development Professional (Rural ED Pro) Grant Program is designed to strengthen Idaho’s rural communities by funding full-time economic development professionals. Administered by the Idaho Department of Commerce’s Rural Services team, this program partners with local boards and leverages both grant and local funding to place experts in seven regions across Idaho. These professionals focus on business retention, expansion, attraction, and broader community development efforts, serving as catalysts for rural economic growth and resilience.
