February 2025

Idaho Policy Institute (IPI) has released its 2024 Annual Report, showcasing a year of impactful research, collaborative partnerships, and data-driven insights that support informed decision-making across Idaho. As an applied research center within Boise State University’s School of Public Service, IPI is deeply committed to community-engaged scholarship that aligns with the university’s mission of advancing knowledge and fostering public impact. Now in its ninth academic year, IPI continues to serve as a trusted, nonpartisan resource, addressing critical issues in housing, economic development, governance, and more. Central to this work is the engagement of Boise State students, who contribute to research projects, gain hands-on experience, and help translate data into meaningful policy solutions. As IPI looks ahead to 2025, it remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of public service leaders while producing research that strengthens communities. The full report is available here.

Libbie Luevanos, Kristi Spalding

In partnership with the Idaho Commission on the Arts, our interns Libbie Luevanos and Kristi Spalding recently completed qualitative analysis of survey responses from individuals in the Idaho arts community. Some of the key findings include:

• Funding constraints – Financial support remains a top concern, with 88% of respondents identifying funding challenges. Artists and organizations struggle with operating costs, production expenses, and access to individual grants.
• Venue Accessibility – There is a pressing need for affordable, multi-use venues, particularly midsize spaces that can accommodate performances and exhibitions.
• Professional Development & Networking – Many artists seek mentorship opportunities, financial training, and an artist directory to foster collaboration and professional growth.

While the initial report is out, our team is also in the process of analyzing artistic qualitative submissions. To learn more about the project and to read the first phase of the report, visit the Idaho Commission on the Arts Survey Analysis.

Idaho Matters

Idaho Matters interviewed Idaho Policy Institute Director Vanessa Fry about the crucial role nonprofits play before, during, and after disasters. While disasters like the recent wildfires in Los Angeles highlight the immediate response efforts of nonprofit organizations, their impact extends far beyond emergency relief. Many nonprofits are also deeply involved in long-term recovery, helping communities rebuild and working to anticipate or prevent future crises. Fry, an Associate Research Professor and Director of the Idaho Policy Institute at Boise State University, recently explored this topic in an article for the nonprofit news organization The Conversation. She joined Idaho Matters to share more insights on how nonprofits contribute to disaster response and resilience.

January 2025 Market Update

Research Associate Maria Onaindia completed the January 2025 Market Update for Boise Regional Realtors. This month’s report includes data on Payette, Owyhee, Malheur, Washington, and Boise counties. Previously, reports only included data from Gem, Ada, Canyon, and Elmore counties.

Idaho Behavioral Health Council

IPI Director Vanessa Fry joined Idaho Behavioral Health Council’s (IBHC) Supportive Housing Advisory Team. The team, Commissioned by Idaho Health and Welfare and Idaho Department of Corrections, is charged with implementing the IBHS’s 2024-2028 Strategic Action Plan recommendation to increase availability of supportive housing for people with behavioral health conditions.

Statewide Survey Presentation

Research Scholar Matthew May presented his findings from the 10th Annual Public Policy Survey to the Capital City Kiwanis Club on February 20th.

• Growing Idaho: Survey says housing costs worries have intensified for Idahoans, KTVB 7, February 4, 2025
• Where Idahoans stand: The impact of the Idaho Public Policy Survey, Boise State University School of Public Service, February 5, 2025
• Ada County Residents positive on quality of life, local law enforcement according to BSU survey, Idaho Press, February 16, 2025