Over 230 attendees, including leaders from Idaho cities and counties, state and federal agencies, business owners, and community organizations, convened for the fourth annual Idaho Rural Success Summit held in Worley, Idaho, on April 30 and May 1, 2025. The two-day event served as a platform for discussion and collaboration on key issues impacting rural communities across the state.
Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke kicked off the summit with opening remarks before attendees delved into a series of presentations, panels, and keynote speeches that covered topics critical to rural Idaho, including main street business development, community health, housing, agriculture, infrastructure, and workforce challenges.
Notable speakers included Gene James, Vice-Chairman of the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, Jeremy Grimm, Mayor of Sandpoint, and Jeff Siegler, founder of Revitalize or Die. These leaders shared insights on revitalizing rural economies and communities through innovative strategies and partnerships.
Idaho’s rural communities, which account for nearly 90% of the state’s geography, face unique challenges, and the summit provided a valuable opportunity for attendees to connect and share success stories. Participants discussed how rural businesses and local governments have overcome obstacles and thrived despite limited resources.
Governor Brad Little expressed his support for the event, emphasizing the importance of rural communities to the state’s overall success. “The Idaho Rural Success Summit is a one-of-a-kind event,” he said. “As the backbone of our state, rural communities and businesses need to be supported. I am proud of all we are doing at the state level to strengthen rural Idaho, and this year’s summit brought together partners from across the state to provide resources to help rural Idaho succeed.”
Lieutenant Governor Scott Bedke echoed these sentiments, highlighting the collaborative nature of the event. “The summit showcases the ways Idahoans come together to support rural communities and businesses alike,” he said. “I look forward to seeing this event continue for years to come as we help rural Idaho thrive.”
In addition to the discussions, attendees had the opportunity to participate in a resource fair, where they could access tools and information to help their businesses and communities grow. The event also provided ample networking opportunities for participants to build relationships with others who share similar goals.
Tom Kealey, Director of Idaho Commerce, also praised the summit’s impact. “The Idaho Rural Success Summit embodies the tenacity, passion, and creativity of rural Idaho,” he said. “By working together, we can create real impact. I hope attendees will leave with valuable resources, relevant information, and new connections that will pave the way to success for their business, community, or organization.”
The summit was conducted in partnership with a variety of organizations, including the Idaho Rural Partnership, Idaho Department of Commerce, USDA Rural Development Idaho, Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Association of Idaho Cities, among others.
By: DNU staff