Whitehall Chamber Corner - Celebrating Tourism: MT's Key to Economic Prosperity

The 2024 Convergence event in Butte, MT, highlighted the importance of tourism to Montana's economic and community development. As the Whitehall Chamber of Commerce Executive Director and Board Member of Gold Junction Presents, Chiara had the privilege of attending this dynamic two-day event, which celebrated National Travel & Tourism Week (#NTTW24) and underscored the pivotal role of tourism in our beautiful state.

Hosted by the Montana Chamber of Commerce, Convergence 2024 brought together leaders from around Montana in film, outdoor recreation, tourism, and community development sectors. Held from May 21-22, 2024, at the "1923" Dutton Ranch, The historic Finlen Hotel, and The Butte Depot, the event harnessed Montana's natural beauty and vibrant culture to drive conversations on economic development and community building.

National Travel & Tourism Week, established in 1983, is a cherished tradition that celebrates the travel community's contribution to economic growth, job creation, and quality of life enhancements. This year's Convergence highlighted how tourism intersects with Montana's thriving film and outdoor recreation industries, showcasing our state as #TheLastBestPlace.

The event started with a VIP tour and talk at the "1923" Dutton Ranch, a renowned filming location for the Yellowstone prequel. Attendees learned about the MEDIA film tax credit's crucial role in bringing productions to Montana, fostering job creation, and developing local talent. The evening concluded with a VIP reception at The Finlen Hotel, where networking opportunities abounded, and attendees heard from key figures like J.P. Gallagher, Chief Executive of Butte-Silver Bow, and Todd O'Hair, President & CEO of the Montana Chamber.

On the second day, participants enjoyed a trolley tour of Butte, from the Berkely Pit to the Dumas Brothel, courtesy of the Butte-Silver Bow Chamber of Commerce, followed by a luncheon at The Butte Depot. The luncheon featured insightful sessions on film, outdoor recreation, and tourism. Allison Whitmer, Montana Film Office Commissioner, and Jocelyn Dodge, Chair of Visit Southwest Montana, along with Karen Byrnes, Community Development Director of Butte-SilverBow Government, and Lynn-Wood Fields, Executive Director of Montana Media Coalition, discussed the state's growing film industry. Alex Kutches, former president of Mystery Ranch, provided an overview of the outdoor industry's landscape, particularly in light of recent mergers and acquisitions.

Dax Schieffer from Voices of Montana Tourism offered a look back at SB-540's impact on the tourism sector and shared policy initiatives for the 2025 Legislature aimed at expanding these benefits.

As Whitehall's Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Chiara is encouraged by the positive energy and forward-thinking ideas shared at Convergence 2024. "Tourism is not just about attracting visitors; it's about building thriving communities and fostering economic resilience. Our local businesses, from restaurants to retail, benefit immensely from the influx of tourists, which helps sustain jobs and spur new opportunities, encouraging our youth to stay in town," says Schober.

Whitehall and Montana are poised to capitalize on the momentum generated by events like Convergence 2024. By embracing tourism and its intersection with other vibrant industries, we can ensure continued growth and prosperity for our communities. Let's celebrate and support tourism as a cornerstone of our state's economic future.

For more information about upcoming tourism initiatives and how you can get involved, visit the Montana Chamber of Commerce website.

Chiara Schober is the Executive Director of the Whitehall Chamber of Commerce and a Board Member of Gold Junction Presents. She is dedicated to promoting economic development and community well-being through tourism and other key industries.