Little did lifelong animal lover Stephanie Smotherman know her affinity for critters would lead to a barnyard full of animals and a thriving small business in the rural eastern community of Jordan. 

Named for daughters Brook and Belle, BB Farms and Soap Company produces “Made in Montana” lotions, soaps, and lip balms using goat’s milk.

The value-added business sprung from Stephanie’s desire to find a way to feed her adopted “bum” (meaning motherless) lambs. When she realized goat’s milk could do the trick, she jumped at the chance to expand her herd, buying three additional goats.  

“I started the business because I love goats,” said Stephanie. “I used the goat’s milk to make lotions for other people, and they convinced me to try and sell it.”

Initially, retailers shied away from her idea and product. Never one to be discouraged, Stephanie entered and won a local competition for new businesses which she believes validated her idea.  

So, she took the next step and connected with Montana’s USDA Rural Development team to apply for a Value-Added Producer Grant. This program helps eligible rural small businesses and agricultural producers analyze, market, and grow their business.

“There is no way I could have gotten through the application process without the Montana RD team,” said Stephanie. “But I really enjoyed the process because it forced me to figure out things like my products and pricing.”

The grant helped Stephanie purchase packaging supplies, pay shipping costs to fulfill online and retail orders, expand her customer base, and purchase a freeze dryer to extend the shelf life of her goat’s milk ensuring none goes to waste. 

“The impact of the grant has been everything,” Stephanie said. “I would be nowhere near where I am today without it.”

Even though Stephanie manages all facets of her business, and works two jobs outside the home, she continues generating new ideas to make it grow. Her expansion ideas include developing a line of products for men, curating subscription boxes for returning customers, and designing seasonal and holiday offerings.  

“Part of the fun of it is experimenting with new products,” she said. “There are so many possibilities and there is so much potential with this.”

Stephanie also believes the business is a great way to pass along her strong work ethic to Brook and Belle, who make the BB Farm and Soaps product line labels and tend the goats. 

“The girls love being around the animals and caring for them; they are little goat tamers,” said Stephanie. “I’m glad to be bringing them up to be caring, kind and helpful; they have that work ethic.”