How the FADC Network Helps Small Farms Become Regional Leaders
Small farms can make a big impact when given the right tools to grow. And when the community of Big Sandy, Montana asked for non-GMO, corn, and soy-free poultry, Flocking Good Farms, run by Joe Ostrom and Carissa Bergren, knew they’d need some more tools in their belt.
With assistance from the Bear Paw Food and Ag Development Center (FADC) in Havre, Flocking Good Farms received the $25,000 Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) Grant, providing them with the critical boost needed to transform their ambitious vision into a thriving operation. With the funds, they’ve been able to upgrade operational efficiency, expand infrastructure, and strengthen their capacity to meet growing local demand for ethical, pasture-raised poultry.
“As we saw demand grow, we knew we needed to focus on efficiencies with this expansion. With some great technical assistance help from Bear Paw FADC, we were able to secure GTA Grant funds that boosted our slaughter infrastructure to meet demand and grow our operation,” said Joe.
While Flocking Good Farms’ focus on regenerative agriculture, animal welfare, and transparency gave the business a solid foundation, the GTA Grant paved the way for future growth, including a CSA program accessible to SNAP EBT participants. Now, the farm is on track to become a regional leader in sustainable poultry production.
Stories like this are happening all across Montana, thanks to the Montana FADC Network. Whether you’re launching a product, expanding your operation, or exploring value added opportunities, the statewide FADC Network helps Montanans start, grow, and strengthen food, agriculture, and renewable energy businesses by connecting them to resources, expertise, and tailored support.
Currently, there are 11 centers located across the state, in Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, Havre, Helena, Joliet, Kalispell, Lewistown, Ronan, Hamilton, and Wolf Point/Glendive. Each offers services such as business planning, networking at all levels, access to financing, grant support, regulatory guidance, and assistance with state and federal programs.
The Network also offers additional expertise in product development and testing, market research, food safety training, cooperative development, and education on industry trends and technologies. All services are free of charge, and by working with the FADC Network, you can gain access to a statewide team, national networks, and personalized business support.
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Written by:
EMILEE WOOD GARMAN
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