On October 23-24, 2026, the Grow Montana Coalition will host the third Governor’s Summit on Local Food and Agriculture in Helena, Montana. The event, held every ten years, aims to bring together stakeholders from across the state to assess local food systems and develop strategies for future growth.
The summit is significant as agriculture stands as Montana’s leading industry, according to the official website of the Montana Department of Agriculture. Organizers say that expanding market access for locally produced food is vital for the prosperity and longevity of farmers and ranchers in the state.
The summit will focus on designing a strategic plan to increase the share of Montana-produced food consumed within the state from its current level of about 3% to at least 33% over the next decade. According to a Highland Economics study cited by organizers, increasing this share could redirect hundreds of millions of dollars into Montana’s economy each year. “A more resilient, self-reliant, and accessible food system keeps more food dollars in Montana, supports rural communities, and improves nutrition and food security for all Montanans,” states the Grow Montana Coalition.
Director Jillien Streit of the Montana Department of Agriculture said, “By gathering as an industry, we can learn, discuss, and hone-in on practices that focus on feeding our local communities which is vital to the agricultural ecosystem here in Montana (…) Aiming to bolster our state’s food system resiliency while keeping rural dollars in our rural communities is a direct investment into the backbone of our economy.” Streit directs the department, which works to serve Montana agriculture and foster prosperity; it also operates programs including financial assistance, marketing support and grain inspections (according to its official website).
Four core themes will guide discussions: Healthy Food/Healthy People; Resilient Markets & Economy; Healthy Soil; and Strong Communities. The agenda includes keynote speakers, panels, plenary sessions and breakout groups. Post-summit activities are planned throughout the following year for continued collaboration.
Governor Greg Gianforte said he looks forward to welcoming producers and industry leaders: “Our farmers produce the highest-quality products that feed the world. Through collaboration, we will continue to promote innovation and opportunities to expand markets that strengthen our operations and boost local economies, now and into the future.” For more information about programs such as grain inspections or financial assistance offered by the department—or about its role advancing agriculture—visit the official website. Additional details about grain inspection services are available through the department’s site.
