Rural Summit
June 10, 2026 in Townsend MT
Join us for a celebration of rural Montana andan opportunity to explore innovative and effective ways tosupport the success of our small towns.
Registration is Open
Why Attend?
Are you a funder, service provider, policy maker, or supporter of rural communities? Come for the day to hear highlights from a new “State of Rural” report for Montana, sharing from rural leaders on what works, conversations about where to go from here to take action on persistent challenges that hold rural back, and how we can all help build vital and thriving communities across our state.
Who should attend?
People at statewide or regional organizations that work to improve the quality of life, economy, infrastructure, and sustainability of Montana’s rural communities.
If you are concerned about rural Montana's effective economic development, strong schools, excellent healthcare, suitable housing, the presence of arts and culture, outdoor recreation, social support systems, strong local government and ample and skilled volunteers, we invite you to join us for a vibrant day of sharing and learning.
Registration
Cost to attend will be $50 which includes morning refreshments and lunch.
Draft Agenda
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8:30 a.m. |
Check-in, coffee and refreshments |
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9:00 a.m. |
Welcome and Introductions Montana State University President Brock Tessman, Mary Rutherford, Montana Community Foundation CEO, Allison Kosto, MSU Extension Broadwater County |
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State of Rural Report Presentation Dr. Julia Haggerty MSU Geography, Dr. Kristen Smith Headwaters Economics |
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Reimagining Rural Community Stories of Success Regular Montanans are sparking positive change in their towns to keep them alive and vital. We will hear from some of the best on how they did it and why it matters. |
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Noon |
Lunch and Legislators Panel discussion with rural legislators on policy considerations for a positive rural future in Montana. |
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1:00 p.m. |
Unlocking Local Leadership: Why Rural People Step Forward to Help their Communities. Daniel Read of the LOR Foundation will present recent research by LOR Foundation and Gallup. |
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What have we learned, What does it mean? Facilitated discussion to unpack the day’s insights and turn learning into action for rural Montana. |
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Recap. Next Steps. Getting Started. A closing discussion focused on what’s next, what are some practical first steps and what are some big ideas worth chasing for the future of rural Montana. |
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4:00 p.m. |
Adjourn |
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4:15 p.m. |
Taste of Townsend tour Rachael Brug, Montana Nonprofit Association Rural Ambassador will lead a behind‑the‑scenes look at downtown Townsend, where entrepreneurs are reimagining rural business in fresh and surprising ways. This tour spotlights unique projects, community‑minded leaders, and the creative energy shaping rural Montana. The tour also features a “Taste of Townsend” featuring culinary tasting along Broadway. Join us for an inspiring look at rural innovation in action. Meet in front of The Lodge of Townsend at 131 S Spruce. Tour will end at Canyon Ferry Brewery.
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Registration Closes June 3. Space is limited and there may be a waitlist.
We hope to see you there
Event Sponsors
This event has been made possible through support from the Wells Fargo Foundation, the LOR Foundation, AARP Montana and the Montana Community Foundation.
