Economy

Solutions and stories related to local economic prosperity.

Story

Rural Communities Tackle Rising Hunger With Creative Solutions February 2026

Amid federal cuts, people in the rural Mountain West are finding ways to fill the gaps and feed their neighbors.

Solution Lighting Extends Events and Economic Opportunity at Libby’s J. Neils Park

Local Champion:: Kootenai River Stampede
Date funded:: February 3, 2026
Grant Amount:: $29,657

Solution An Extra Hand Improves Engagement and Sustainability for Cortez’s Montezuma Heritage Museum

Local Champion:: Montezuma County Historical Society
Date funded:: January 7, 2026
Grant Amount:: $9,720

Solution Updated Computers Restore Reliable Technology Access at Lander Library

Local Champion:: Lander Library Friends Association
Date funded:: December 9, 2025
Grant Amount:: $16,018

Solution Highway Banners Boost Visibility for Questa Businesses

Local Champion:: Questa Economic Development Fund
Date funded:: December 9, 2025
Grant Amount:: $3,850

Solution Sponsored Content Spotlights Local Businesses and Nonprofits in Questa

Local Champion:: Questa del Rio News
Date funded:: December 9, 2025
Grant Amount:: $10,000

Solution ‘Shop Local’ Campaign Keeps Dollars Circulating in Questa

Local Champion:: Questa Economic Development Fund
Date funded:: December 9, 2025
Grant Amount:: $8,500

Solution Historical Mural Revitalizes West End of Downtown Lander

Local Champion:: The Bossert Collective
Date funded:: December 8, 2025
Grant Amount:: $10,000

Solution Pet Pantry Helps Lander Residents Keep Their Animals During Financial Hardship

Local Champion:: Lander Pet Connection Awarded
Date funded:: December 3, 2025
Grant Amount:: $15,700

Solution Christmas Program Returns to Support Monte Vista Families in Need

Local Champion:: A Monte Vista Local
Date funded:: November 24, 2025
Grant Amount:: $5,300

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If you have an idea for improving quality of life in Cortez or Monte Vista, Colorado; Lander, Wyoming; Libby, Montana; Questa or Taos, New Mexico; or Weiser, Idaho, use this form to start a conversation with us.

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