The Future of Idaho’s Nonprofits: Challenges, Opportunities and Solutions.
Four years ago, Idaho Partners for Good (IP4G) set out with a bold vision: to revolutionize philanthropy in Idaho by providing nonprofits with the operational support, education, and funding they need to thrive. Today, we are proud to say that our impact has reached over 60 nonprofits across the state, providing the tools, coaching, and resources necessary to strengthen the communities we all love and support.
Through initiatives like the Transformational Leadership Cohort (TLC), Nonprofit Success Lab, and our deep-dive consulting model, we have empowered nonprofits to refine their operations, enhance their leadership, and expand their reach. Our partnerships with organizations like the Boise Bicycle Project, Lifeʻs Kitchen and Jesse Tree have demonstrated that with strategic support, nonprofits can achieve record-breaking fundraising, streamline operations, and create lasting impact in the communities they serve.
But the work is far from over. Nonprofits across Idaho are facing increasing financial strain, with many deeply reliant on government funding that is becoming more precarious.
As highlighted in the 2024 Idaho Nonprofit Center State of the Sector Report, Idaho’s nonprofits contribute over $6.5 billion to the state’s economy and employ nearly 80,000 Idahoans, making them the fourth-largest employment sector. However, despite this economic significance, many nonprofits struggle to secure sustainable funding and build the operational infrastructure necessary for long-term success. Without diversified revenue streams and greater investment in nonprofit capacity-building, many organizations risk falling into financial instability.
This is where our community must step in and become informed advocates. Federal decisions to freeze funding wreaked havoc on many of the very nonprofits that keep families from falling off the cliff into homelessness, food insecurity, mental health services and much more. Idaho needs the full spectrum of humans, especially retirees and young professionals to lend their expertise, leadership, and fresh perspectives to help tackle some of our state’s biggest challenges. Whether through advocacy, board service, volunteerism, or professional mentorship, your involvement with us shapes the future of Idaho’s nonprofit sector. Your skills in finance, marketing, strategic planning, HR or governance can be the key to helping a nonprofit navigate today’s challenges and build a stronger tomorrow with those they serve.
Looking ahead, IP4G remains committed to fostering innovation in the philanthropic and nonprofit sectors. Our BHAG is to disburse $10 million in grants and resources over the next decade, ensuring nonprofits have the tools and leadership needed to transform lives across the state. But we can’t do it alone. We invite you to join us in this mission—as a donor, volunteer, or advocate for change.
As my friend Kevin Bailey often says, ʻIdaho runs on nonprofitsʻ! I would add to that ʻIdaho families run on nonprofitsʻ! Let’s make sure they have the strength to keep running for years to come.
To learn more about how you can get involved, visit www.idahopartners4good.org or reach out at info@idahopartners4good.org.