handMADE Montana strengthens arts ecosystem

As 2025 approaches, the Polson-based HandMADE Montana celebrated a banner year of supporting local and regional artists, fostering community engagement, and making a meaningful impact through its events, retail store, and online platform.

According to owner Carol Lynn Lapotka, in 2024 HandMADE Montana's MADE fair events, retail store in Polson, and the Flathead Cherry Festival, held in Polson, generated more than $2 million in revenue for more than 400 artists and small businesses across the region.

“These opportunities allow artisans to connect directly with customers and help them build sustainable, creative businesses,” Lapotka said in a press release.

She added that giving back is a cornerstone of handMADE Montana’s mission. In 2024, the organization raised an impressive $32,400 for Montana nonprofits through VIP ticket sales at the four MADE fairs and the Flathead Cherry Festival, which is organized by handMADE Montana.

The Polson Chamber of Commerce received $5,000 from Cherry Festival proceeds. Here’s how the funds were distributed from other events:

• Bozeman Spring MADE Fair: $6,000 for Fork & Spoon (HRDC and Food Bank)

• Bozeman Fall MADE Fair: $7,500 for Shakespeare in the Parks

• Helena Holiday MADE Fair: $5,400 for Girls Thrive

• Missoula Holiday MADE Fair: $8,500 for Arts Missoula

In addition to monetary contributions, HandMADE Montana donated more than 3,000 pounds of food during the Spring, Fall, and Holiday MADE fairs to help support local food banks.

Lapotka said she's already planning 2025 events, including the MADE fairs and the Flathead Cherry Festival.

“We look forward to continuing our legacy of fostering economic growth and strengthening the local arts ecosystem,” she said.

Visit www.handmademontana.com for more information about HandMADE Montana, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.