Rural Economic Development Professional (Rural ED Pro) Grant Program
The Rural ED Pro Grant funds Idaho rural communities to hire full-time economic development professionals to support business retention, expansion, attraction, and community development.
Funder: Idaho Department of Commerce
Due Dates (Anticipated): July 2026 (full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Supports hiring of full-time economic development professionals; local cash match required; typical award covers salary and benefits for one year.
Summary: Funds Idaho rural communities to hire full-time economic development professionals for business retention, expansion, attraction, and community development.
Key Information: Local cash match is required; managed by local boards; only Idaho rural communities eligible.
Description
The Rural Economic Development Professional (Rural ED Pro) Grant Program is designed to strengthen Idaho’s rural communities by providing grants to hire full-time economic development professionals. These professionals, managed by local boards, work on business retention, expansion, attraction, and community development initiatives. The program leverages a network of 18 specialists across Idaho’s seven regions, amplifying local economic growth through targeted professional support and collaboration.
