Garfield County was awarded this grant in the first round of funding, referred to as Cohort 1. This project became known as Grow Garfield County. A Steering Committee made up of local stakeholders representing businesses, local government, nonprofit organizations and community members serve as the guiding body for the Grow Garfield County initiative. This diverse representation ensures that projects and priorities reflect community needs and local values.
All projects are funded through the Montana Department of Commerce's PCTGP.
"In 2025, the passage of Senate Bill 409 revised laws related to the Montana Department of Commerce and the lodging facility use tax, commonly known as the bed tax. The bill updates SB 540, which passed in 2023, restructuring the allocation of bed tax revenue by specifying how Commerce can use these funds for purposes like tourism promotion and grants.
The Pilot Community Tourism Grant Program is a state-funded opportunity building tourism in a manageable, sustainable way that can stimulate and diversify Montana’s local economy, protect and enhance local resources and foster community pride without compromising the qualities that make local communities so special.
The purpose of the PCTGP is to elevate communities across the state, increase their economic vibrancy by improving their appeal as visitor destinations and improve their resilience as a destination by enhancing and diversifying tourism assets and infrastructure. Through this program, communities can cultivate regional visions, identify strategies to harness the power of tourism and develop unique experiences in tourism."
How Grow Garfield County began...
Vision
Grow Garfield County envisions a community dedicated to sustainable growth, preservation, and progress, where enhanced infrastructure, resources, and local charm invite visitors and residents alike to connect to our rural traditions and western way of life.
Mission
Grow Garfield County enhances and protects our resources by fostering community pride, supporting local businesses, and driving sustainable tourism growth through impactful projects and responsible development.
Committee Members
Grant Manager - Madi Saylor, GNDC
Fiscal Agent-Great Northern Development Center
Committee Member-Stephanie Smotherman
Committee Member-Cathy Murnion
Committee Member-Kathy Wankel
Committee Member-Pam Walter
Committee Member-Bev Harbaugh
Committee Member-Kelly Witt
Committee Member-Brett Hellyer
Committee Member- Kelly Childers
Committee Member-Brian Adkins
Committee Member-Jacque Gregg
Committee Member-Joe Herbold
Committee Member-Carla Hunsley (Missouri River Country)
jordanmtchamber@gmail.com
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