To kick off the month, Governor Greg Gianforte launched a $7.5 million Agriculture Infrastructure Grant Program to invest in value-added agricultural products across the state and strengthen the industry for generations to come.

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“Agriculture is Montana’s number one industry, and our administration is partnering with our ag industry to find ways to add value to commodities here in Montana. By investing in value-added processing and manufacturing in Montana, our producers will be able to keep pace with a transforming agricultural industry, create jobs, and expand business opportunities here in Montana.” – Governor Greg Gianforte

Then, the governor launched the Angel Initiative, which improves access to substance abuse treatment for Montanans through increased entry points to treatment and coordination with participating law enforcement partners.Earlier that day, Governor Greg Gianforte wrapped up his first 56 county tour as governor with a stop in Lincoln, having met with Montanans in each of the state’s 56 counties.

“Getting out of Helena and into our communities to visit with Montanans is my favorite part of my job, but also the most important part. Talking with folks in every corner of the state and learning firsthand about the challenges they face and the successes they enjoy help me do my job better. As we continue leading the Montana comeback, I’ll keep working in our communities to make Montana an even better place to live, work, and raise a family.” – Governor Greg Gianforte
The governor logged thousands of miles meeting with Montanans including parents, students, veterans, leaders of Tribal Nations, law enforcement officials, first responders, health care professionals, child care providers, nonprofit leaders and volunteers, farmers, ranchers, small business owners, and local leaders, among others. Find a list of his 56 County Tour stops here.Recognizing the need to develop our workforce, in mid-November, Governor Gianforte marked Apprenticeship week by meeting with apprentices across the state and proposing a rule change to cut red tape and expand access to apprenticeship opportunities for hardworking Montanans. Industry leaders welcomed the governor’s proposal. Check out what they had to say about it here.Finally, the governor launched the 12 Days of Giving campaign after lighting the Christmas Tree in the Rotunda at the Montana State Capitol. Running through mid-December, the governor’s 12 Days of Giving will highlight the work of a dozen organizations serving Montanans in need.