By John Brewer, President/CEO, Billings Chamber of Commerce
To the farmers, ranchers, producers, and partners who power our region, thank you.
In Montana, agriculture isn’t just an industry, it’s a way of life that connects us all. Whether you’re working the land, supporting those who do, building a business that depends on ag, or simply sitting down to a meal, you are part of this story. In many ways, we’re all just one degree removed from the people and operations that keep this essential industry moving forward.
That deep connection is exactly why the Billings Chamber of Commerce has made agriculture a cornerstone of its work.
Our commitment goes beyond appreciation about action. Through the Chamber’s Ag Committee, we bring together leaders, producers, and agribusinesses to strengthen relationships, elevate understanding, and ensure agriculture continues to thrive in our region. This group isn’t just a meeting on the calendar. It’s a catalyst for ideas, advocacy, and impact.
So, what does that look like in practice?
We convene the voices shaping agriculture—creating space for meaningful conversations, connections, and collaboration.
- Monthly Ag Committee–Convene leaders and influencers in the ag industry to receive meaningful information and network;
- Ag Committee Facebook Group –a means to keep the committee connected;
- Web landing page for Ag Committee to share mission and recruit committee members;
We inform and educate—making sure our broader business community understands the true value of agriculture, from economic impact to quality of life, and everything in between.
- Integrate ag messaging in Chamber’s programs and Networks
- Communicate the value of ag to the broader Chamber audience via all communications channels
- Respond to opportunities to support ag during crisis periods, or general periods of opportunity (fire season, rail transportation concerns, trade wars, etc.)
- Connect leisure travelers to our ag experiences and ag-based businesses via Visit Billings and Visit Southeast Montana promotion (web site, visitor guides, social media, familiarization tours, national media, etc.)
We advocate—standing up for policies and priorities that protect producers, strengthen markets, and support long-term sustainability.
- Provide input on ag policy and issues as Chamber’s “Public Policy Guide” is updated
- Testify and contact Legislators when personal engagement is needed
- Engage with local elected representatives and candidates for office: County Commissioners, City Council, Mayor, Federal Delegation and their field representatives on ag policies as defined in the Chamber’s Public Policy Guide
And we promote and celebrate—because the people behind this industry deserve recognition not just once a year, but every chance we get.
- Host Annual Ag Banquet in January
- Honor Ag Excellence Award recipient in January
- Support Annual Ag Celebration Week in March
- Host Ag Tour in June
- Serve NILE Pancake Breakfast in October
Our goal driving the hosting of these signature events is simple: keep agriculture visible, valued, and vibrant across the Billings community.
Because when agriculture succeeds, our entire region moves forward.
This week, we invite you to go beyond appreciation. Engage. Learn. Connect. Celebrate.
And most importantly—show up.
