Food processing provides an interesting dichotomy in the arena of social capital. Although agriculture has a long and successful history of cooperation, and Montana is very active in forming grower cooperatives and agriculture associations, the activities of food processing associations are more targeted to general business. The Montana Agricultural Business Association focuses on best practices for the business of farming,and does address value-added products. The Montana Meat Packers Association and Montana Food Distributors Association address specific needs and could be platforms for more specific market activities. In addition, there are a variety of regional economic development and agricultural organizations, such as the Eastern Plains Resource Conversation and Development District, Action for Eastern Montana, and Flathead Valley Economic Development Corporation that host conferences and workshops. Chamber of commerce and association sponsored events and local or county development agency workshops also facilitate associative behavior.