🌟 Editor's Note

In this Issue: A Cool (and Useful!) Free Tool, Community, Recent News, and Spotlight on Montana Makers and MADE IN MONTANA TRADE SHOW registration is out!

Embracing Community for Artisan Makers

Welcome to this edition of Montana Gateway News, where we shine a spotlight on the vibrant world of community engagement for makers of artisan goods. In a marketplace increasingly driven by authenticity and connection, we explore how artisans can authentically engage with their local communities while fostering lasting relationships with their customers.

This issue delves into the power of community support, showcasing inspiring stories of artisans who have successfully integrated local collaboration, shared experiences, and unique craftsmanship into their business models.

Whether you're an artisan seeking to strengthen your community ties or simply curious about the transformative impact of local engagement, this issue is packed with valuable insights, practical tips, and compelling narratives to inspire and empower your journey. Let's celebrate the unwavering spirit of community that makes the artisan marketplace not just a ‘place to buy,’ but a thriving hub of creativity and connection!

But FIRST !
We’re excited to introduce a fantastic resource that can elevate your online presence effortlessly! SEO Test is a free, user-friendly tool designed to provide actionable insights to enhance your website's performance. With just a few clicks, you can receive tailored suggestions that are easy to implement yourself.

Whether you're an artisan maker looking to improve your visibility or a small business striving for greater reach, SEO Test streamlines the process of optimizing your site. Get ready to harness its power to drive more traffic and engage your audience like never before!
https://seotest.me/

Made In Montana Trade Show For Food and Gifts

March 13-14, 2026

Discover authentic Made in Montana products at the Made in Montana Trade Show, located at the Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds at 98 West Custer Ave. in Helena.   

The trade show is a unique selling opportunity for Made in Montana companies as it incorporates a wholesale day and a public retail day. 

• Friday, March 13, 2026, is reserved for wholesale buyers. The exhibit floor is open for buyers from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

• Saturday, March 14, 2026, is open to the public. Shop from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the latest in Made in Montana food, home, gifts and more. Admission and parking are free.
  
  Learn all about it: https://commerce.mt.gov/Business/Programs-and-Services/Made-in-Montana/Tradeshow/
  
  Registration application is here: https://mtgov.formstack.com/forms/2026_made_in_montana_exhibitor_application

Get More Information and Share Montana Gateway News with a friend!

We talk about the power of the Made in Montana badge in our whitepaper. If you’d like the full white paper and to sign up for Montana Gateway News, you can find that here: https://montanagateway.com/

Community Engagement and the Power of the Buy Local Movement

This article details actionable steps for independent retailers to foster strong community ties. It emphasizes collaboration, local partnerships, and participation in community events to enhance customer relationships.

https://creslane.com/community-engagement-and-the-power-of-buy-local-movements-a-winning-formula-for-independent-retailers/

Supporting Artisan Communities: Sustainable Bracelets that Make a Difference

"Empowering Local Artisans": This article discusses the importance of supporting local artisans and how ethical business practices can contribute to sustainability and community empowerment. It highlights the ripple effects of economic empowerment on local communities.
https://www.4ocean.com/blogs/sustainable-bracelets/empowering-local-artisans

Handicrafts Market (2025 - 2030)

The global handicrafts market size was estimated at USD 739.95 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 983.12 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2025 to 2030. The rising demand for unique, handmade, and culturally significant products is a key driver, as consumers increasingly value craftsmanship and eco-friendly goods over mass-produced items.
https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/handicrafts-market-report

Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 739.95 Billion

• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 983.12 Billion

• CAGR (2025-2030): 4.9%

• Asia Pacific: Largest market in 2024

• North America: Fastest growing market

ChatGPT debuts new checkout experience with Etsy, Shopify merchants as early users

Do you have an Etsy store? Get ready to sell via AI!

OpenAI's Instant Checkout is already usable for Etsy purchases, with plans to roll out for Shopify merchants in the near future.
https://www.digitalcommerce360.com/2025/09/30/chatgpt-debuts-checkout-experience-etsy-shopify-merchants/

Spotlight on Local Community Makers: Best Practices in Action

This month, we are thrilled to highlight a selection of incredible local makers who exemplify best practices in artisan craftsmanship and community engagement. These talented individuals not only create unique, high-quality products but also prioritize digital Best Practices and storytelling in their businesses.

Join us as we celebrate their dedication and ingenuity, showcasing how they inspire fellow artisans while enriching our local communities. Get ready to learn from their innovative approaches and discover what makes their work truly exceptional!

» The Clay Studio of Missoula offers pitch perfect newsletter content (and a great website!). We can all learn from each other! Subscribe (even if you’re not a clay artist! and check out their timely newsletter content about upcoming events, their calendar, educational classes and more. Learn more: https://www.theclaystudioofmissoula.org/about

Subscribe here: https://theclaystudioofmissoula.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/theclaystudioofmissoula/subscribe.jsp

» Todd Family Meats out of Big Timber is an outstanding example of how small producers can expand their market online. Great website, fantastic and informative newsletter, great product photos and descriptions, engaging backstory. Check it out!
https://toddfamilymeats.com/

» Missoula Makers Collective is all about building community and amplifying makers of artisan goods in Montana. Founded in late 2021 with the purpose of creating community spaces for makers. Markets became that first community space, and since our first market, we’ve have hosted nearly a hundred handmade markets, pop ups, and shopping events. https://www.mslamakers.com/

Did You Know? 

The Montana Brand Center is a cutting-edge digital asset management platform designed to elevate the promotion of Montana products.

This innovative tool provides businesses with easy access to a rich library of high-quality images, videos, and marketing materials that showcase the unique beauty and culture of Montana. By streamlining the process of finding and utilizing digital assets, the Montana Brand Center empowers businesses to effectively market their offerings, connect with customers, and celebrate the spirit of Montana.

Whether you're a small business owner or a large organization, the Montana Brand Center is your go-to resource for enhancing your brand's visibility and impact.

Till next time,

Montana Gateway