FAQ

Sun Valley Economic Development (SVED) is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit public-private organization focused on economic issues in Blaine County, Idaho. It is comprised of an Executive Director and a Board of Directors and is funded by the Idaho Department of Commerce, local governments, and local businesses.

SVED’s mission is to preserve and enhance the Sun Valley Region’s economic vitality and diversity while recognizing the values of the community.

While several local organizations contribute to the economic health of the Wood River Valley, each has a different focus. Visit Sun Valley promotes and manages tourism, The Valley Chamber connects and supports local businesses, and Fly Sun Valley Alliance develops and supports commercial air service.

Sun Valley Economic Development (SVED) focuses on the bigger economic picture—helping businesses start, stay, grow, and relocate here while supporting workforce development, economic diversification, and long-term economic vitality throughout Blaine County.

The main elements of SVED’s strategic plan are: Business Retention, Expansion, Attraction and Start-up – with projects aligned in the categories of Positive Business Environment, Housing & Accommodation, Infrastructure and Workforce Development. Placemaking – with projects aligned in the categories of Recreation, Events and Resilience.

No, SVED supports all of Blaine County, Idaho. We borrowed our name from the general area description in a nod to the nation’s first destination ski resort.

While all businesses and the community at large benefit from the work SVED does, being a contributing member shows that you are a true partner in helping bring about positive changes in the economic development sphere in Blaine County. In addition to complimentary access to ticketed events, being a member also entails one-on-one sessions with the ED that can lead to customized approaches for business projects. Finally, membership brings exposure via business and logo listing in various publications including the SVED newsletter, our website and the annual Economic Profiles booklet.

The region pairs the infrastructure and business climate of a thriving commercial center with an exceptional quality of life. Businesses benefit from direct air service, fiber connectivity, competitive electricity rates, meaningful incentives, and a skilled workforce, all in one of the most desirable places to live in the country.

Blaine County is located approximately 2 hours from Boise, 1 hour from Twin Falls and 4 hours from Salt Lake City by car via Interstate, US and State highways. In addition, we have reliable commercial air service via the Sun Valley Airport (SUN) located in Hailey with 8 non-stop destinations across all the major airlines. Finally, the valley is blessed to be supported by Mountain Rides, a free all-electric bus system connecting our cities.

For the latest population trends, employment growth, industry composition and other essential data, refer to our latest Economic Profiles here: (insert link)

Reach out to Executive Director, Mel Jackson (contact info at bottom of page)

Yes, we have options for “Community” (mostly other nonprofit organizations) and “Individual” membership.

The region pairs the infrastructure and business climate of a thriving commercial center with an exceptional quality of life. Businesses benefit from direct air service, fiber connectivity, competitive electricity rates, meaningful incentives, and a skilled workforce, all in one of the most desirable places to live in the country.

SVED offers free, confidential support, serving as the referral point for relocations from
the Idaho Department of Commerce. It helps with site selection, incentives, economic data, workforce connections, funding guidance, and introductions to local partners at
every stage of growth.

Three main Idaho programs apply: the Tax Reimbursement Incentive (up to 30 percent on income, payroll, and sales taxes for up to 15 years for adding qualifying jobs), a Property Tax Exemption (for qualifying investments of at least $500,000, up to five years), and the Workforce Development Training Reimbursement (up to $3,000 per new full-time employee). Contact SVED to find out what your project qualifies for.

The region combines experienced professionals in construction, trades, hospitality, and healthcare with a growing base of remote workers and entrepreneurs. Idaho’s Workforce Development Training Reimbursement provides up to $3,000 per qualifying new hire, and SVED has supported vocational training and childcare programs that strengthen the local talent pipeline.

The region offers an exceptional quality of life: a top-ranked ski resort, 150 miles of groomed Nordic trails, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, endless hiking trails, and a Blue-Ribbon trout fishery, all within 1,500 square miles of mountain wilderness. It is also served by a nationally recognized regional hospital, strong schools, and a vibrant arts and events scene. Finally, the area lies within the nation’s first designated International Dark Sky Reserve: The Central Idaho Dark-Sky Reserve.