Region IV Development Association, Inc.

Region IV Development Association, Inc. (RIVDA) is a private, not-for-profit corporation established in 1975. Its primary mission is to foster sustainable community development in South-central Idaho, focusing on economic development and diversification. RIVDA serves as the officially designated Economic Development District (EDD) for eight counties in the area: Blaine, Camas, Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls, collectively known as the "Magic Valley".

Purpose and Activities

• Economic Development: RIVDA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration. It prepares and manages the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) for its service area, which outlines a five-year plan to promote economic growth, create jobs, and enhance community resources.
• Loan Programs: RIVDA offers financial assistance to small businesses through various loan programs, including the SBA 504 Loan Program, helping entrepreneurs and existing businesses secure necessary funding for operations or expansions.
• Opportunity Zones: The organization also engages with the Opportunity Zones program, which aims to stimulate investment and job creation in economically distressed communities by offering tax incentives for long-term investments.

Impact on the Region

The economy of South-central Idaho is predominantly driven by agriculture and food processing, with agriculture contributing significantly to Idaho's gross revenues. The region's successful transformation into a productive agricultural hub, facilitated by irrigation projects like those initiated under the Carey Act, has made it a key agricultural area in the Intermountain West.

Other Initiatives

RIVDA's activities extend beyond loan programs to include strategic planning for economic development, supporting local businesses, and building partnerships with regional stakeholders to implement cohesive economic strategies.