Agriculture, Business, Fundraising, and Fun…

Between my agricultural background and experience working for the State of Montana promoting “value-added” business enterprises that encouraged the growth of businesses utilizing Montana agricultural commodities, I get excited every time I read about a success story that builds on locally produced commodities, and builds brand recognition around a whole new product.  Combine that with my M.B.A. and the understanding of the many challenges associated with small business development, and I have great respect for the people that take on these challenges and work to build our local economy. 

One such business in Montana that has successfully grown into a strong new category with a series of businesses spread across the state has been local micro-breweries.  They operate under some strict state rules and regulations, but have been able to create new jobs, and utilize products that Montana grows in great quality and quantity. 

Now, one of these local breweries, Lewis & Clark Brewing, has agreed to host a fundraiser for us!  On Tuesday, June 5, 2012, a portion of their sales will be donated to World Venture in support of our economic development work in Bolivia.  Quinn & Dana will both be on hand from 4-8 pm that day to host this event, share pictures of Bolivia, and visit about what we will be doing while we live in Bolivia for three years.  This should be a unique opportunity to visit with a lot of people we haven’t had an opportunity to visit with recently, and we look forward to seeing many people.

If you are in town, and can make it, please plan to join us Tuesday, June 5, to encourage the use of business success to promote positive community change, and hopefully engage in some great conversations about what we are planning to be involved with in Bolivia.  We hope to see you there.