You can tap into a network of support that’s reshaping how nonprofits thrive across Idaho. The Idaho Community Foundation offers flexible grants, from $3,000 to $25,000, tailored to meet evolving community needs. With over 15 programs and a streamlined application, you’re not just applying for funding—you’re joining a movement that values local insight and lasting impact. What could your organization achieve with the right resources?
Key Takeaways
- The Idaho Community Foundation offers over 15 grant programs for nonprofits, with awards ranging from $3,000 to $25,000 depending on the program.
- Forever Idaho Regional Grants provide flexible funding of $3,000–$8,000 (up to $25,000) with deadlines varying by region throughout the year.
- The Idaho Future Fund awards $10,000–$20,000 specifically for education-focused nonprofits and school districts supporting preschool through 12th-grade programming.
- Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities, and one application can be considered for multiple funding opportunities simultaneously.
- The foundation has awarded over $200 million to Idaho communities since 1988, with recent cycles distributing nearly $255,000–$295,000 across nonprofits statewide.
Overview of Idaho Community Foundation Grant Programs
Although nonprofit needs in Idaho vary widely, the Idaho Community Foundation (ICF) responds by offering more than 15 grant programs tailored to support nonprofits and educational institutions statewide.
You’ll find streamlined grant application processes, including options for one application to access multiple funding opportunities. ICF’s programs, like Forever Idaho and the Idaho Future Fund, deliver measurable funding impact, addressing everything from education gaps to community beautification.
Regional grants further target local priorities, ensuring your organization can access the right support. With simplified procedures and a proven track record, ICF makes it easier for you to secure resources and drive meaningful change in your community.
Statewide Grant Opportunities for Nonprofits
Statewide grant opportunities through the Idaho Community Foundation (ICF) provide nonprofits with flexible funding tailored to critical local and statewide needs.
You’ll find key grants like the Idaho Future Fund offering $10,000–$20,000 for education gaps (deadline March 1) and the Student Loan Fund of Idaho Education Fund with a $5,000 minimum grant (deadline January 15).
You can also benefit from the Forever Idaho Regional Grant Program that connects donors with community needs on regional cycles.
- Submit one application for multiple Forever Idaho grants to simplify grant writing.
- Engage in nonprofit collaboration through regional grant cycles with deadlines June 15 and August 15.
- Utilize over $1.1 million awarded to 210+ nonprofits for strong community impact.
- Address diverse community needs statewide with targeted funding opportunities.
Forever Idaho Regional Grant Program Details
When you apply to the Forever Idaho Regional Grant Program, you tap into a streamlined process that considers your organization for both regional and statewide funding with just one application.
This approach maximizes your funding opportunities while minimizing effort. Grants, typically ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 and up to $25,000, support general operating costs like payroll, rent, and program needs.
If you’re in Valley County, you’re automatically included for consideration, simplifying access.
Deadlines vary by region: June 15 for North and East, August 15 for Southwest and South Central, ensuring timely grant application submissions.
Over $1.1 million has supported 210 organizations, highlighting its community impact.
Educational Grants: Idaho Future Fund and Student Loan Fund
- Awards range from $10,000–$20,000 through the Idaho Future Fund.
- Applications support preschool through 12th-grade programming.
- Deadlines vary by region; check your area’s timeline.
- Transparent processes guarantee effective grantee support.
You’re accessing part of the broader Forever Idaho initiative, which streamlines applications for eligible organizations.
These grants fund critical programs addressing education funding shortfalls, helping you maximize your nonprofit’s reach and effectiveness in Idaho communities.
Youth Empowerment Grants: Idaho Youth in Philanthropy Project
By participating in the Idaho Youth in Philanthropy Project, you’ll empower high school students in rural Idaho to actively engage in grantmaking and community development, allocating $5,000 grants to local nonprofits tackling critical issues.
This program cultivates youth leadership by teaching students essential grantmaking skills, philanthropy, budgeting, and project evaluation.
You’ll see how students collaborate with nonprofits and community members to identify and solve local challenges, fostering civic engagement and preparing them to become future community leaders.
The initiative offers a tangible way to invest in youth-driven solutions that strengthen rural Idaho communities.
East Idaho Regional Grants and Funding Sources
Although grant opportunities are available throughout Idaho, the East Idaho region offers a targeted selection of funding sources designed to support diverse community needs.
You can utilize effective funding strategies and grant writing approaches to access these resources:
- The Ifft Foundation Fund supports community beautification with deadlines on March 15 and August 15.
- The F.M., Anne G., and Beverly B. Bistline Foundation Fund focuses on arts activities, with May 1 and December 1 deadlines.
- The Lemhi Valley Community Foundation helps local organizations improving community welfare.
- The Forever Idaho East grant cycle recently awarded over $250,000 to 50 organizations, simplifying applications through a streamlined process.
North Idaho Regional Grants and Special Purpose Funds
You’ll find several targeted grant programs in North Idaho, each with specific deadlines and funding ranges to support local nonprofits.
Special purpose funds like the Bonner County Fund for Arts Improvement and the Women’s Gift Alliance offer focused opportunities for arts, veterans, and community projects.
These funds let you address your organization’s unique needs while contributing to the region’s growth.
North Idaho Grant Programs
The North Idaho Regional Grants and Special Purpose Funds provide several targeted opportunities to support nonprofits improving community programs across the region.
You’ll discover specialized funding designed for your organization’s unique needs:
- Bonner County Fund for Arts Improvement ($3,000–$12,000, deadline May 1)
- Women’s Gift Alliance supporting Kootenai County nonprofits (deadline November 9)
- Junior Garnier & Bud Ashford Military Veterans Fund (deadline May 1)
- Ifft Foundation Fund for community beautification (deadlines March 15, August 15)
Through strategic grant application processes and nonprofit collaboration, you can access resources that strengthen your community‘s liveliness and organizational capacity.
Special Purpose Fund Highlights
Several specialized funds within Idaho’s grant landscape empower North Idaho nonprofits to address their communities’ most pressing needs.
These Special Purpose Funds employ targeted funding strategies to maximize grant impact. For example, the Betty Ann Diehl Greatest Need Fund quickly supports critical needs in Bonner County, while the Daugherty Foundation Fund for Children aids statewide organizations serving youth.
The Claude See Celebration of Life Fund honors community legacy through diverse grants.
These funds complement larger initiatives like Forever Idaho North, which recently awarded over $275,000 to 40 local organizations, amplifying community-driven philanthropy in North Idaho.
South Central Idaho Grant Initiatives and Community Impact
You can access substantial grant funding through South Central Idaho’s Forever Idaho grant cycles, which award unrestricted grants up to $25,000 to nonprofits addressing critical community needs.
The region’s grant initiatives support diverse priorities including education, health and wellness, housing stability, and economic development, with 42 organizations receiving $227,804 in the most recent funding cycle.
South Central Grant Programs
Multiple grant programs operate throughout South Central Idaho to address community needs, with the Chobani Community Impact Fund standing as a cornerstone initiative for nonprofits seeking support.
These grants foster economic and social improvements, and the application process is streamlined through the Forever Idaho Southwest Regional Grant Program.
Community collaboration is central to these efforts, ensuring your grant application leads to meaningful impact.
- Chobani Community Impact Fund supports local projects for broad community benefit
- Women’s Giving Connection focuses on charitable initiatives for community well-being
- Grant applications are simple and accessible via the Forever Idaho program
- Community collaboration drives successful outcomes and collective support
Community Impact Highlights
While South Central Idaho’s nonprofits benefit from diverse funding sources, the recent grant initiatives have demonstrated a focused commitment to community empowerment and cooperation.
Grants like the Women’s Giving Connection’s $35,000 award to seven local nonprofits and the $227,804 distributed through the Forever Idaho cycle clearly reflect strong grant impact in the region.
Additionally, the Chobani Community Impact Fund surpassing $1 million in grants and the $60,000 allocated at the South Central Celebration of Philanthropy showcase thriving community partnerships.
These funding efforts directly strengthen social and economic programs that enhance the well-being of South Central Idaho communities.
Southwest Idaho Grants and Application Guidance
Because the Southwest Idaho Grants operate through the Forever Idaho Southwest Regional Grant Program, nonprofits in Valley County benefit from a streamlined application process that allows a single submission to be considered for multiple funding opportunities.
You’ll find these grant application tips and nonprofit funding strategies invaluable:
- August 15 deadline for Southwest and South Central regions
- Awards range from $3,000–$25,000, with most grants between $3,000–$8,000
- Funds support payroll, rent, utilities, equipment, capital improvements, and programmatic needs
- Automatic consideration for Valley County organizations through the Shelton Foundation Fund
Your organization gains access to flexible, community-responsive funding designed to meet evolving operational needs.
Application Process and Eligibility Criteria
To apply for Forever Idaho grants, you’ll need to log into your ICF portal account, select the grant cycle for your region, and submit your application online.
Your organization must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity or government entity, including public schools, to qualify for funding.
You can apply in the region where your main office is located or in any region where you’re providing services, giving you flexibility in choosing which regional cycle best fits your organization’s needs.
Eligibility Requirements
If you’re a nonprofit seeking support through the Idaho Community Foundation’s Forever Idaho grants, you’ll need to meet clear eligibility requirements and follow a straightforward application process.
To qualify, focus on these grant eligibility and nonprofit requirements:
- Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit or a governmental entity operating within Idaho regions relevant to your mission.
- Address specific community needs aligned with Forever Idaho’s areas of impact.
- Submit one streamlined application to be considered for multiple funding opportunities.
- Respect deadlines and criteria for regional grants like those from the Ifft Foundation Fund and Bonner County Fund.
Transparency and clear communication guide the entire process to support you effectively.
Application Steps
Once you decide to apply for Idaho Community Foundation‘s Forever Idaho grants, start by logging into your ICF portal account and finding your way to the Opportunities section to select the appropriate regional grant cycle.
One application covers consideration for both regional and statewide funding, improving your chances. Use the submission checklist to confirm all eligibility criteria, since requirements vary by grant type.
Pay attention to key deadlines like January 15 for the Student Loan Fund and March 1 for the Idaho Future Fund. If you’re in Valley County, you’re automatically included, simplifying things.
Follow these application tips to streamline your process.
Fund Portfolio and Donation Opportunities
While the Idaho Community Foundation manages a diverse portfolio of funds, you’ll find opportunities to support nonprofits across the state through region-specific and statewide contributions.
Your donor engagement strengthens local communities through:
- Region-specific funds like the Albert C. Pistorius Forever Idaho Fund for North Idaho and Albertsons Eastern Region Fund targeting Eastern Idaho charities
- Community Trust Fund addressing statewide charitable needs across Idaho
- Special Purpose Funds such as the Betty Ann Diehl Greatest Need Fund for Bonner County and Daugherty Foundation Fund for Children
- Forever Idaho Endowment Funds building permanent regional support for nonprofits
Fund management strategies allow you to customize philanthropic goals.
Contact the Idaho Community Foundation to establish personalized funds aligned with your charitable vision.
Special Purpose and Legacy Funds Explained
You can make a lasting difference in Idaho by supporting Special Purpose and Legacy Funds, which are designed to address both targeted community needs and long-term charitable goals.
Special Purpose Funds like the Betty Ann Diehl Greatest Need Fund focus on specific initiatives, ensuring precise fund management for immediate impact.
Legacy Funds, such as the Founders Fund, offer flexible, unrestricted giving, enhancing community sustainability by adapting to evolving demands.
The Forever Idaho Endowment Funds build permanent resources regionally, securing ongoing support for nonprofits.
Together, these funds underpin Idaho Community Foundation’s strategy for responsive, sustainable philanthropy that meets diverse community challenges.
Education, Youth, and Greatest Need Fund Descriptions
You can rely on Education Funds to support initiatives that improve access to post-secondary education and boost local educational outcomes in areas like Kootenai County.
Youth Empowerment Grants focus on providing resources and creative opportunities for disadvantaged young people aged 12-18, helping them flourish personally and culturally.
Greatest Need Funding offers flexible resources to meet urgent and varied community challenges across Idaho’s diverse regions.
Education Fund Support
The Idaho Community Foundation’s Education Fund Support offers targeted grants to address critical needs in education, youth development, and community well-being, promoting educational equity and nonprofit sustainability.
- The Idaho Education Access Fund helps underserved students transition into post-secondary education.
- The Herbert D. McAvoy Fund improves K-12 educational needs in Kootenai County.
- The Youth Trust Fund supports disadvantaged youth aged 12-18 with educational and developmental resources.
- The Miles and Virginia Willard Fund fosters youth services and arts programs in Eastern Idaho.
These grants empower organizations to create lasting impact and opportunity for Idaho’s youth.
Youth Empowerment Grants
Although youth face diverse challenges across Idaho, targeted grants from the Idaho Community Foundation empower nonprofits to tackle these issues with strategic support aimed at education, development, and overall well-being.
These Youth Empowerment Grants focus on fostering youth leadership and mentorship programs, addressing needs from disadvantaged youth aged 12-18 to underserved students pursuing post-secondary education.
Funds like the Idaho Education Access Fund, Youth Trust Fund, and the McGee Family Fund help nonprofits implement mentorship and leadership development initiatives in diverse regions, including Treasure Valley and Kootenai County.
Additionally, Greatest Need Funds offer flexible support to address emerging youth priorities statewide.
Greatest Need Funding
When nonprofits seek unrestricted support to address emerging community needs, the Idaho Community Foundation’s Greatest Need Funds deliver the flexibility required for strategic impact.
These greatest need initiatives target diverse community challenges by offering adaptable nonprofit funding. Key options include:
- The Herbert D. McAvoy Fund for educational programs in Kootenai County
- The Idaho Community Foundation Youth Trust Fund supporting disadvantaged youth aged 12-18
- The Idaho Education Access Fund enhancing post-secondary opportunities for underserved students
- Unrestricted support via funds like the Leslee and Bob Hoover and Richard B. and Susan S. Parrish Greatest Need Funds
This broad funding approach empowers nonprofits to respond swiftly to urgent priorities statewide.
Community Engagement and Communication Channels
Because strong community engagement shapes effective philanthropy, the Idaho Community Foundation actively connects with local residents and nonprofits through multiple communication channels.
You benefit from their commitment to community collaboration and nonprofit networking, which amplifies collective giving and impact.
Regular events like the Celebration of Philanthropy strengthen these connections, while monthly E-Bulletins and newsletters keep you informed about grants, news, and opportunities.
Social media further engages you by sharing stories and updates.
This transparent, engaged approach guarantees you stay connected, informed, and empowered to support Idaho’s nonprofits effectively.
How to Contact and Stay Informed With Idaho Community Foundation
To connect with the Idaho Community Foundation and stay informed about grants and opportunities, you can call their main line at 208-342-3535 or reach regional philanthropic advisors directly by their extensions, such as 208-342-3535 x22 for East Idaho and x28 for South Central Idaho.
- Contact the grant application team at 208-342-3535 x19 for specific questions about your nonprofit resources and funding process.
- Visit their headquarters at 210 W. State Street, Boise, ID 83702 for in-person consultations.
- Subscribe to their newsletter for real-time updates on grant opportunities and funding cycles.
- Follow social media channels to engage with community discussions and receive timely nonprofit resources announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Find Grants for Nonprofits for Free?
You can find grants for nonprofits for free by using online grant search platforms like Instrumentl, which tailors nonprofit resources and funding recommendations to your profile. Also, access local nonprofit centers and community foundations’ resources for no-cost grant databases and applications. These services simplify your grant search and increase opportunities without payment.
Who Is Eligible for the Idaho Launch Grant?
Imagine planting a seed in fertile Idaho soil: to nurture it, you must be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit based in or serving Idaho communities, ready to innovate and impact underserved areas. These nonprofit requirements define your grant eligibility for the Idaho Launch Grant.
What Is a Community Foundation Grant?
A community foundation grant is financial support you can receive to fund your nonprofit’s operations or projects. You’ll need 501(c)(3) status and grant eligibility requirements met to apply for these awards.
What Is the Forever Idaho Grant Program?
The Forever Idaho Grant Program gives you powerful, flexible funding to tackle Idaho’s toughest local problems, supporting nonprofits with grants from $5,000 to $20,000 through regional cycles tailored to your community’s needs. You decide the priorities.
Conclusion
You’re not just applying for a grant—you’re joining a legacy, like planting a tree whose shade you may never sit under. The Idaho Community Foundation’s support is the quiet wind behind countless community dreams, helping nonprofits grow roots and reach new heights. With each award, you help write Idaho’s next chapter, one bold idea at a time.