WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), senior member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced the selection of Idaho Sewing for Sports (ISS) in Grangeville as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for November 2020. ISS will be recognized for their contribution to the Grangeville community in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.

Idaho Sewing for Sports is a manufacturer of custom padding and coverings for ski resorts and summer recreation destinations around the world. In 1986, founders Gail and Will Williams were returning from a business trip to Canada and decided to stop in Grangeville for a night of rest. Prior to their trip, the Williams never intended to relocate their business. However, after an awe-inspiring visit to the Gem State, the couple relocated their family and business from California to the Idaho panhandle. The Williams have since retired and passed the business to their son and daughter-in law, Gunther and Joy, who have continued to build upon the business’ reputation for producing high-quality custom coverings for lift seats, zip lines, and other resort infrastructure.

In addition to operating a successful business, ISS has played an important role in Idaho’s COVID-19 response efforts. In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, ISS shifted its focus to producing personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure health care facilities in the community had access to affordable, effective PPE. To this day, the business continues to produce gowns and surgical blankets for local hospitals at cost. This would not be possible without the owners’ dedication to the community and the bravery of the ISS employees.

“Since its relocation to Grangeville, Idaho Sewing for Sports has become a staple in the Idaho panhandle, providing quality jobs to the region,” Risch said. “They are a sterling example of how small business and community go hand in hand in Idaho.”

“Congratulations to Gunther, Joy, and all of the hard-working employees of Idaho Sewing for Sports on being selected as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for November 2020,” Risch continued. “You make our great state proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.”

Background: Idaho is consistently ranked one of the best places in the country to do business. Each month, Senator Risch selects an Idaho small business that exemplifies the Idaho values of hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and exceptional commitment to community.

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