Idaho Wild Rivers Grant Program

The Idaho Wild Rivers Grant Program, administered by Idaho Commerce through Visit Idaho, supports initiatives that enhance the state’s renowned whitewater river experiences. This grant program is funded by the sale of Wild Rivers specialty license plates, as outlined in Section 49-419C of the Idaho Code. The proceeds are dedicated to initiatives that foster whitewater river tourism, improve river access and facilities, ensure the safe use of Idaho’s rivers, and promote conservation practices. The program plays a pivotal role in supporting Idaho’s outdoor recreation economy and sustaining its natural river resources. Visit Idaho, the tourism division within Idaho Commerce, spearheads this effort as part of its broader mission to grow the state’s economy through tourism. The Wild Rivers Grant Program aligns with Visit Idaho’s commitment to showcasing the state's diverse natural landscapes and fostering sustainable tourism. Funding is awarded competitively, with applications evaluated by a five-member advisory panel comprising representatives from Idaho’s whitewater river communities and the rafting and kayaking industries. Eligible applicants for this grant cycle include incorporated nonprofit organizations and federal, state, or local government agencies with ties to whitewater river recreation. Projects may address a range of objectives including promoting river tourism, improving access or facilities, supporting safety initiatives on whitewater rivers, or advancing conservation awareness and litter cleanup efforts by river users. For the 2026 grant cycle, applications must be submitted via Idaho Commerce’s online portal no later than 4:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time on February 9, 2026. To access the portal, prospective applicants must email grants@commerce.idaho.gov to request login credentials. The grant does not mention pre-application requirements such as concept papers or letters of intent. While the program's total available funding and award ranges are not disclosed in the announcement, the grant is issued on an annual basis. This implies a recurring funding cycle, with the next round expected in early 2027. Interested applicants are encouraged to monitor Idaho Commerce’s announcements or contact the program directly for updates. For further inquiries, applicants can reach out to the Grants and Contracts Manager, Ewa Szewczyk, via email at ewa.szewczyk@commerce.idaho.gov. Overall, the Idaho Wild Rivers Grant Program offers a unique opportunity for organizations to support the enhancement and stewardship of Idaho’s whitewater river assets, contributing to safe, accessible, and environmentally conscious recreational experiences across the state.