State agritourism grants inject $445,000 into Montana farm tourism growth

The Montana Department of Commerce announced on Jan. 8 that it awarded more than $445,000 through its Agritourism Grants Program to 25 farms, ranches and organizations across the state. The program funds investments such as facility upgrades, guest accommodations and event-space improvements designed to help working farms and ranches become more viable tourist destinations and diversify rural economies.

The awards average roughly $17,800 per recipient, distributing targeted public investment into a sector that blends agriculture with travel and hospitality. Program officials framed the grants as a way to boost rural and tribal agricultural businesses, support economic diversification and stabilize year-round revenue streams on operations that often face seasonal income swings.

Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio said the grants support broader economic goals: "The grants help Montana communities plan for growth, diversify local economies and create or retain well-paying jobs." That emphasis ties the awards to workforce and community planning rather than simply one-off tourism projects.

For Lewis and Clark County, the funding signal matters even if specific recipients are spread statewide. Agritourism growth in surrounding counties tends to ripple into Helena and county businesses through increased demand for lodging, restaurants, outdoor outfitters and local suppliers. Improvements such as event space upgrades and expanded guest accommodations make it easier for farms to host weddings, farm stays, educational tours and seasonal events that draw visitors beyond the traditional summer tourism peak.

From a market perspective, relatively modest public grants can unlock private spending and entrepreneurial activity. A $17,800 average award can cover key upfront costs that deter small operators from offering visitor services—bathroom upgrades, ADA access, commercial kitchens or modest guest cabins—thereby lowering barriers to entry and shortening the time to revenue. For rural employers, even small project investments can translate into part-time or seasonal positions and preserve full-time farm jobs by diversifying income.

Policy-wise, the program reflects a statewide approach to rural economic development: targeted, small-scale capital investments aimed at strengthening local supply chains and broadening the county tax base without relying solely on extractive industries. Inclusion of tribal agricultural businesses also signals attention to equity and support for historically underserved producers.

Residents should expect to see new or upgraded agritourism offerings gradually over the coming months and seasons. For local businesses and officials, the grants underscore an opportunity to coordinate marketing and partnerships so visitor dollars stay in Lewis and Clark County. As Montana seeks steadier rural economies, these small investments in place-based tourism could help convert farms and ranches into reliable engines of local employment and visitor spending.