View as Webpage

Jolene and Brett joined Governor Gianforte and a powerful 42-member delegation of Montana agriculture, business, academic and state leaders on a Montana Business Attraction Mission to South Korea and Japan. See KFBB.

1) On the Montana Business Attraction Mission we pitched the Great Falls region with the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, the Federation of Korean Industries, the South Korean World Class 300 business leaders, and the Keidanren Japanese business association. We participated in Montana business attraction seminars in Seoul and Tokyo co-hosted with leading business associations, participated in Korean and Japanese flour miller association luncheons, networked at special receptions with targeted company leaders, and met one-on-one with executives of targeted companies. Thank you to the Montana Department of Commerce, the Montana Department of Agriculture, and the Governor's Office for organizing such an effective busy week!

2) Entrepreneurs, we want to celebrate YOU! Join us for the second annual Entrepreneur Celebration at the Newberry on November 19th from 5:00-6:00 PM and get recognized for your awesome achievement. Starting a business is not easy! This celebration is for anyone who has ever started a business in the entire 13-county Great Falls trade area. Sign up in advance here so we have a head count!

3) The average annual wage in the Great Falls MSA (Cascade County) increased by 5.5% in the four quarters ending 2025Q2, according to data released by JobsEQ. This was the highest increase since 2023Q2 and beat the state increase of 5.4% and the national 4.1%. The local average annual wage reached $55,479 which was 75% of the national average and 92% of the state average. We need to keep working to restructure our economy to create higher wage jobs while continuing work to produce housing to keep our cost of living as low as possible. Total earned wages over the four quarters increased by 6% in Cascade County, adding $120 million to our local economy. For the 13-county Great Falls trade area, the average annual wage increased 5.4% to $57,120 and total annual wage earnings increased 7% adding $390 million to the regional economy. The number of business establishments in Cascade County reached a record 3,282.

4) Great Falls Development Alliance is hosting POWERING SAVINGS: Commercial Energy Programs and Financing Options to Help Montana Businesses Address Energy Costs on Tuesday, October 28th at 11:00 AM at The Springhill Suites in Great Falls. Learn about programs, tools, and opportunities to fund and support commercial energy efficiency and renewable energy upgrades. Meet state and federal program experts, renewable energy professionals, and financial partners who can help your project move forward. Click Here to learn more and register!

5) KRTV and KFBB ran stories about new restaurants and businesses coming to Great Falls.

6) We submitted a comprehensive response to a Request for Information (RFI) through the Montana Department of Commerce for a manufacturing company considering expansion into Montana. The Great Falls proposal emphasized the region’s strengths in workforce, infrastructure, and business climate, supported by partner letters highlighting workforce development, quality of life, and development support. These collaborative efforts showcased the community’s unified approach to attracting and sustaining new industry. To learn more about how GFDA works with partners to bring manufacturing investment to the Great Falls region, contact Christian Leinhauser at CLeinhauser@GrowGreatFalls.org or 406-836-0136.

7) GFDA'sTalent Attraction initiative continues to highlight the advantages of living and working in Great Falls, helping employers connect with skilled professionals who value opportunity, affordability, and quality of life. Live in Great Falls offers a suite of free digital resources designed to strengthen your recruiting efforts—including customizable relocation materials, community lifestyle content, and regional data that showcase why Great Falls is a great place to build a career and a future. Explore these tools to enhance your outreach and attract top talent to your organization.

8) Jake was in Lethbridge, Alberta participating in a stakeholder roundtable about cross-border commerce in the I-15 corridor. It is great to have good partners at Economic Development Lethbridge committed, as we are, to serving the dynamic business needs of companies in the region. Is your business navigating new international challenges? Reach out to Jake at 1-406-403-4937 or Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org

9) Great Falls Tourism hosts an events calendar on the VisitGreatFalls website and sends out a weekly email of upcoming events every Monday. Sign up for the email. Please post events so residents and visitors can find you!

10) The Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Dynamic Small Business Search (DSBS) profile enhancement is now complete, making this the perfect time to update your SBA Profile and stay visible to government buyers. The Great Falls Regional APEX Accelerator will help you create or refresh your profile, which is a vital tool that connects your business with government buyers and prime contractors. Agencies use these profiles to identify and verify qualified companies of all sizes and industries for federal contracting opportunities. Keeping your profile current ensures your business stands out in the competitive federal marketplace. Let’s position your business to get noticed by government buyers today, contact  Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1184.

11) We participated in the Kids' Education Yes event, which featured remarks from Sarah Swanson, Commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. The discussion centered on strengthening connections between education and workforce development in Great Falls, emphasizing collaboration among schools, employers, and community partners to prepare students for local career opportunities. The event reinforced the importance of aligning education pathways with the region’s growing industries to ensure a strong future workforce.

12) Montana Department of Agriculture’s Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) program is now accepting pre-applications! To be invited to submit a full application, candidates should upload a project summary and budget projections through the Webgrants online portal by November 10. Grants up to $50,000 and loans up to $100,000 are available, for a maximum possible award of $150,000. A dollar-for-dollar match is required for all funded projects. Last year we helped secure $166K of funding for small businesses in the region. Do you have a project idea or questions about your application for GTA funding? Reach out to FADC Director Sara Niccum at Sara@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1301.

13) GFDA’s Small Business Development Center led the first Montana Small Business Development Center state-wide training program. Rich Gannon presented Digital Footprint Marketing to hubs throughout the state where local Small Business Development Center Business Advisors facilitated break-out sessions at key points during the training. Our local hub had 10 small business owners. Other locations throughout the state included Kalispell, Billings, Wolf Point, Helena and Miles City. Participants from these locations brought us to over 60 participants in this new initiative. Our next state-wide training program will be on January 29th.

14) Kristen met with businesses, regulators, legislators, utilities, and energy developers in Billings and Bozeman this week during The Future of Data Centers, AI & Energy in Montana and Unlocking Montana’s Business Potential – Energy Challenges and Economic Imperatives. The takeaway was clear: Montana’s real power lies in how quickly and collaboratively we can move together. To discuss your energy project or join the growing energy conversation in North Central Montana, connect with Kristen Blue at Kristen@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-788-4989.

15) We took part in the Montanans at Work event hosted at Great Falls College, an engaging gathering aligned with Governor Greg Gianforte’s Jobs 406 initiative to strengthen Montana’s workforce. The event highlighted innovative partnerships between education, industry, and community organizations that help Montanans gain the skills needed for high-demand careers. Discussions focused on how collaboration across sectors can expand local talent pipelines, support employers, and drive long-term economic growth in the Great Falls region. Read more about the event at the Montana Department of Labor & Industry.

16) We’re assisting an international defense technology company developing advanced autonomous aerial systems that is exploring Great Falls for a U.S. operations hub. The company is seeking an existing light industrial building for lease, with approximately 10,700 square feet in Phase One and the ability to expand up to 25,000 square feet in Phase Two. The ideal facility would have a 25-foot ceiling height, truck docks, 480V 3-phase power, and located in a light industrial zone. If you know of any available properties that meet these needs, please contact Christian Leinhauser at 1-406-836-0136 or CLeinhauser@GrowGreatFalls.org

17) The Montana Department of Commerce opened the annual application round for the planning grant segment of the Opportunities in Rural Economies Program. The ORE Planning Grant Program offers matching grant funds aimed at supporting planning projects that yield economic impact for rural communities. For this round of funding, the maximum grant award per contract is $50,000. Applications for the planning grant close on December 7th. Additional information, eligibility criteria and guidelines is available at commerce.mt.gov. To apply, visit the ORE Planning Grant for FY26 application page at montana.servicenowservices.com, or contact Grants Coordinator Kathy Bartlett at 406-841-2792 or kathy.bartlett@mt.gov.

18) Our recent Recreation, Hospitality, and Entertainment Market Assessment & Regional Strategy identifies agritourism as a high-impact growth opportunity for North Central Montana. By pairing agriculture with recreation, hospitality, and curated visitor experiences, agritourism attracts more travelers, increases local spending, and opens new revenue streams for producers. These ventures strengthen rural economies and spark entrepreneurship while celebrating our working landscapes and authentic Montana heritage. Interested in launching or expanding an agritourism business? Contact Shauni Seccombe at 1-406-788-6867 or Shauni@GrowGreatFalls.org.

19) Deb, Rich and Christian Nichols were part of an interactive training presented by Paul Savage from ProfitCents, one of the research tools our GFDA Small Business Development Center uses when working with our clients. Our focus during this training was on short-term cash modeling, adding fixed asset purchases to a business that’s already started and running thumb nail valuations for businesses interested in selling. We are here to serve small businesses and entrepreneurs within the Great Falls Trade Region. If you would like to take an in-depth look at your cash flow, discuss plans for selling your business or explore fixed-asset purchases, please reach out to one of us: Christian Nichols, CNichols@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-788-9385; Rich Gannon, RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-836-2078; and Deb McGregor, Deb@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-750-0314.

20) We’re meeting this coming week with several local businesses interested in expanding into downtown Great Falls, reflecting the strong momentum behind downtown growth and revitalization. These discussions focus on finding the right spaces and support to help each business thrive in the city’s core, adding to the area’s energy and economic diversity. At the same time, our team is deepening its training on Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to ensure we can guide clients with the most comprehensive tools and insights available. Together, these efforts strengthen our ability to help businesses invest, grow, and succeed downtown. Reach out to learn more about downtown opportunities or TIF resources. Contact Katie Carvell at 1-406-217 -7635 or Katie@GrowGreatFalls.org.

21) Jill and Jenn participated in the Opportunity Finance Network (OFN) Annual Conference, the largest gathering of Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) in the nation. The event brought together more than 2,300 funders, CDFIs, economic developers, and policymakers. It provided opportunities to connect with peers and funders while participating in professional development sessions focused on strengthening community finance, navigating the federal government, diversifying funding sources, raising capital, and impact investing. 

22) We’re looking for presenters to join Ignite 2026, taking place January 9th at 8 AM at The Newberry in downtown Great Falls! This annual event celebrates the exciting projects, expansions, and initiatives launching across Great Falls and North Central Montana in the coming year. Whether you’re a business, nonprofit, or public agency with something new on the horizon, we want to feature your story. To be part of the lineup, contact Christian Leinhauser at CLeinhauser@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-836-0136.

23) The Montana Energy Business Alliance (MEBA) is hosting an evening event in Helena on November 11th. Unlocking Montana's Business Potential - Energy Challenges and Economic Imperatives. Please join us for dinner, 5:00-8:00 PM on November 11th at the Best Western Premier Great Northern Hotel for a timely discussion on energy and business in Montana. Montana's leaders in business, energy, politics, and economic development are convening for a timely discussion on the state's economic and energy opportunities. These experts will assess the challenges Montana faces with rising electricity prices and demand, as well as remedies required to keep Montana among the most attractive states for business investment. RSVP here.

24) We are looking for two dynamic team members, an Accounting Assistant and a Business Development Officer focused on online lead generation. Download our updated Career Opportunities and please forward it to great candidates.

25) Every dollar invested works many times over. By leveraging local support to secure state, federal, and private grants, our investors and partners are helping us expand our reach and multiply results. See the faces behind the progress and hear their “why” in this short video. Recent investments include: Pacesetter Division—AE2S and Terracon; Community Division—Granite Construction and Ridgeline Real Estate. Every investment creates measurable, lasting impact across North Central Montana, and with every new supporter, that impact grows even stronger. To learn how you can be involved, reach out to Jenn at 1-406-781-9499 or Jenn@GrowGreatFalls.org. 

Thank you to Governor Gianforte for inviting us to participate in a fantastic business attraction mission. We're confident it will produce results!

I flew directly to the Association of Defense Communities' Installation Innovation forum which starts this evening in Monterey, CA and will be joined by Great Falls leaders as we support and advocate for the defense missions in our region critical to our national security and the security of our allies.

Brett

Brett Doney

Great Falls Development Alliance

BDoney@GrowGreatFalls.org

1-406-750-2119

Connect with me on LinkedIn.

Forward the GFDA Top 10 to friends and colleagues. You can join our distribution list here or text GFDA to 22828.

Subscribe to the Grow Great Falls Montana YouTube channel!

"Follow your passion, be prepared to work hard and sacrifice, and, above all, don’t let anyone limit your dreams."

Donovan Bailey

Edition 708

If your company needs a rail-served, BNSF-Certified, shovel-ready site with all municipal services at your door, we have lots available for immediate construction in the Great Falls AgriTech Park. Contact Jolene Schalper at 1-406-750-4481 or JSchalper@GrowGreatFalls.org

The 25-year loan effective rate (including all fees) is 5.922%; 20-year at 5.983%; 10-year equipment loan at 65.766%; and, 25-year refinance 5.925%; 20-year refinance 5.986%. These rates are FIXED for the life of the loan and are inclusive of all fees. If you would like to find out how to get financing for commercial real estate and equipment at potentially lower rates than you're paying for your home mortgage, please contact Jill Kohles at 1-406-590-1056 or JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org.

GFDA has been approved to participate as both a lender and an economic development organization in the Montana Department of Commerce’s new Opportunities in Rural Economies lower interest loan participation program. Contact Jill for more info at JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1056.

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Did you know that 68% of data breaches involve a human element? This past week, our Great Falls Development Alliance Small Business Development Center Business Advisors did the CyberMontana/University of Montana Missoula College Data Loss Prevention (DLP) training. This 30-minute interactive session provided the tools and habits to keep sensitive information from vanishing into the digital shadows.

Thinking about buying or constructing a new location or upgrading equipment? SBA 504 rates just dropped below 6, the lowest in years. The SBA is making it even more affordable for manufacturers with reduced fees on qualifying 504 projects. Right now, FIXED 504 rates are 5.922% for 25 years, 5.983% for 20 years, and 5.766% for 10-year equipment loan. Refinance options are available at 5.925% for 25 years and 5.986% for 20 years. Fixed interest rates for up to 25 years can deliver significant savings, making it easier to invest in your business and grow. Contact Shandi Gebhardt Jones at 1-406-590-9037 or Shandi@GrowGreatFalls.org to get started today.

Two exciting new grant opportunities are now available from the Montana Department of Commerce to help grow businesses across the state. The Agritourism Grant Program supports innovative projects that expand agritourism, strengthen marketing, enhance visitor experiences, and boost rural and tribal economies. The Tribal Tourism Small Business Grant is a competitive opportunity for Native-owned businesses to launch or expand ventures in lodging, guiding services, food businesses, hospitality experiences, and more. Applicants must be enrolled tribal citizens, and the program is now open. For assistance with you grant applications -reach out to the Great Falls Small Business Development Center

According to our recent market assessment - Recreation, Hospitality, and Entertainment: Market Opportunities and Regional Strategy - the global adventure tourism market was valued at $406 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow, reaching an estimated $1.1 trillion by 2030. With easy access to rivers, trails, cultural attractions, and wide-open spaces, Great Falls is ideally positioned for new recreation, hospitality, and entertainment ventures. If you’ve been dreaming about launching or expanding your business in north central Montana, a region built for growth and adventure, now is the time. Contact Shauni Seccombe at 1-406-788-6867 or Shauni@GrowGreatFalls.org.

Effective November 10, 2025, all new Department of Defense (DoD) contracts will require Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) compliance. Contractors must have the appropriate cybersecurity measures in place. Great Falls Regional APEX can help you understand the requirements and help you prepare to ensure your business is ready to compete and in compliant.

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (MT DEQ) announced a new funding opportunity to help curb transportation sector nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The Clean Truck, Bus & Airport Equipment Program matches funds to replace older diesel trucks, buses or airport ground support vehicles with battery electric, alternate fuel or newer diesel vehicles. Examples of vehicles eligible to receive funding through this opportunity include garbage trucks​, school buses, street sweepers, bucket trucks, buses​ or equipment that service aircraft between flights. This funding opportunity is similar to ones announced in 2021 and 2024 that successfully funded the first electric school buses and electric street sweepers in Montana. For school districts considering purchasing an electric school bus, the Montana Electric School Bus Technical Assistance Report provides information on actual fuel costs, maintenance issues and performance of electric buses operating in Montana.



Fall proposals for Universal System Benefits (USB) funding available through NorthWestern Energy opens on November 1. This program offers a limited amount of funding for renewable energy installations on nonprofit, government, and public buildings. US Department of Agriculture Rural Energy for America (USDA REAP) supports agricultural producers and small rural businesses in installing renewable energy systems or making energy efficiency improvements. Tools available include grants, guaranteed loans or a combination of both. To discuss energy projects and initiatives of all sizes in North Central Montana, contact Kristen Blue at Kristen@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-788-4989.

If you missed the Housing Production Update event we held this summer you can watch the video on the GFDA YouTube page. You will hear about a riverside development making moves, a new single-family development currently raising capital, and you'll get a teaser for a newly announced project on the East end of Great Falls. Let's get your housing project moving, reach out to Jake Clark at 1-406-403-4937 or Jake@GrowGreatfalls.org

As Montana businesses win government contracts and strengthen the economy, Great Falls Regional APEX makes finding opportunities easier with BidMatch. This free service, available to all active APEX clients, serves as a powerful “one-stop-shop” by automatically scanning federal, state, and local opportunities that align with your company’s capabilities and delivering them straight to your inbox. If you haven’t set up your BidMatch profile yet, now is the perfect time to contact with Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org

Data helps drive decisions in business. Our Small Business Development Center assists clients dig into real numbers using powerful tools like Profit Cents, Vertical IQ, and Bizminer for industry financial benchmarks. We help clients tap into wage data using Jobs EQ,  a labor market analytics platform loaded with up-to-date wage, employment, and industry trend data for our region. From startup research to expansion planning, we’ve got the data to back your business decisions—all at no cost to you. Need insights for your industry? Contact the Small Business Development Center today.

The 2025 Livability Great Falls magazines are here! This is a great tool for employers to use to recruit talent to relocate to the Great Falls region. Hard copies will be distributed this week -- the digital version is now live—with interactive links perfect for showcasing all that Great Falls has to offer. Last year’s digital magazine saw 24.3K views and over 200.3K social impressions—proof that people are looking at Great Falls and liking what they see. Help us spread the word about the lifestyle, opportunities, and energy of Great Falls.

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is offering an upcoming energy auditor training pilot program. DEQ is covering the costs for lodging, pre-requisites, class, and testing. For more information contact Sam Hall at 406-444-4960 or Sam.Hall@mt.gov

USDA announced that the first grant application window for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 for the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) opened on October 1st. USDA is using the remaining time in FY25 to implement the Secretary’s direction to disincentivize solar panels on productive farmland for future application windows. Read the full STAKEHOLDER ANNOUNCEMENT. We can help you prepare to apply. Contact Kristen Blue at 1-406-788-4989 or Kristen@GrowGreatFalls.org.

Starting and Owning a Business includes a lot of moving parts. It’s easy to get caught up in all of the day-to-day tasks and not take a step back to pause, evaluate, make adjustments and gain new perspective. Our GFDA Small Business Development Center Advisors are ready and equipped to help entrepreneurs and business owners throughout the many stages of owning a business. If you are ready to evaluate where you are at and where you want to be, set some business goals, get a snapshot of your current financial situation or review your marketing strategy, please reach out to one of our Business Advisors: Christian Nichols, CNichols@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-788-9385; Rich Gannon, RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-836-2078; and Deb McGregor, Deb@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-750-0314.

The Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC) has a new advisor in our region. Carolyn Kelman joins the staff as a business advisor for the Great Falls Region and Northeastern Montana. She has a broad skill set in manufacturing operations with particular expertise in continuous improvement, supply chain optimization, logistics, and warehouse management. Learn more about her experience reading the MMEC newsletter, here. Welcome to the team Carolyn! You can reach her at Carolyn.Kelman@Montana.edu.

The Great Falls Business Improvement District has grants available for businesses and property owners located in the BID. Contact Kellie Pierce at 1-406-727-5430 or kellie@downtowngreatfalls.net. Stay ahead of the curve in Downtown Great Falls!

Ready to sell to the government but not sure where to start?

Great Falls Regional APEX makes it easy to break into the government marketplace. We’ll guide you through registration, research, and responding to opportunities, so your business is ready to win contracts. Whether you’re new to contracting or ready to grow, we’ll help you find opportunities, build connections, and reach your goals. To learn more, contact Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1184 and Mariah Liebing at Mariah@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-217-2174 and if your actively pursuing government contracts and haven't signed up for Great Falls Regional APEX services, Click Here

If you’re looking to expand or start your business through purchasing a commercial building for your future location, make sure to talk to Christian Nichols, Brownfields Assessments Director, so we can see if you qualify for an Environmental Site Assessment paid for by EPA. You don’t know what environmental conditions or possible contaminates exist until you have an assessment completed. With our help you could save thousands of dollars and have confidence in your purchase knowing all contaminates are identified and assessed. For more information, please call Christian Nichols at 1-406-788-9385 or email at CNichols@GrowGreatFalls.org.

Do you know the benefits of C-PACE financing for your multifamily housing project? Last Best PACE, Montana's program, brings value to Montana commercial building owners by improving their bottom line. Last Best PACE can cover up to 100% of eligible project costs and payments are repaid through a special property tax assessment with terms of 20+ years. Reach out to Jake to find out how this tool can help your project move forward Jake@GrowGreatalls.org or 1-406-403-4937. 

Are you planning any international marketing activities in 2025? The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) run by the Export Montana team at the Montana Department of Commerce has a host of export support services and federal grants available for businesses up to $12,000. They're awesome to work with! Our Small Business Advisor, Rich Gannon, can help too and he is also awesome! RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-836-2078.

Cybersecurity is a top priority for the Department of Defense (DoD)! Is your business prepared for the new cybersecurity standards in federal contracting? If your company manages Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) or Federal Contract Information (FCI), you must comply with specific standards. For contractors working with the federal government, the minimum requirement is Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 1. This self-certification verifies that your organization has implemented fundamental security measures to safeguard FCI. To begin your self-assessment journey, contact Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1184 and Mariah Liebing at Mariah@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-217-2174

Our freight logistics consultants, Moffat & Nichols, completed key findings of the Great Falls Region Freight Market Assessment and Economic Development Strategy Recommendations. This comprehensive study offers valuable insights into the logistics industry and its potential in our region. We have already begujn work implementing some of the recommendations. Others will need to wait until we work with our partners to secure more resources. Logistics are a key consideration for existing manufacturers in our region, and in attracting new investment in manufacturing operations.

The 2024 Great Falls Housing Market Assessment shows a need for 650 new housing units per year in the immediate Great Falls area. For assistance with housing development, contact Jake Clark at Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-403-4937.

Great Falls Recruiters and HR professionals! Here is a link to our Talent Attraction Toolkit and the 2025 Great Falls Livability Magazine, part of our effort to help local businesses attract the talent they need for key positions. Join our Trailing Partner Email Group specifically for local employers to share resumes of trailing spouses/partners across the Great Falls region with other employers looking to hire. Visit our relocation website LiveInGreatFalls.com. JobsEQ for Workforce is a software tool that provides timely data on our local workforce and employers—including demographics, occupations, wages, certifications, and more. Contact Katie Carvell at Katie@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-217-7635.

Cybersecurity challenges for businesses continue to grow. The Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC) is offering an array of useful resources to help Montana businesses to protect themselves. MMEC has launched the Certified Manufacturing Associate Apprenticeship program. This one-year program combines on-the-job training with online technical classes on safety, math and measurements, manufacturing processes, and quality control.

Zero to 5 has launched the Montana Child Care Business Connect website to help support the startup and expansion of early childcare businesses. The Great Falls Childcare Demand Assessment shows a need for additional childcare facilities to serve 580 children in Great Falls. For assistance with childcare facility business planning, contact Rich Gannon at RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-836-2078.

The Montana Innovation Partnership is offering a number of trainings and an accelerator program for companies interested in pursuing Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) or Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) grants.

The best resource we scan daily to stay abreast of business and community innovation is MATR.net (Montana Associated Technology Roundtables), which we are proud to help sponsor. Sign up for their free newsletter.

Our Mission is to Grow diverse economic opportunities that enhance quality of life.

GFDA is a certified Community Development Financial Institution and a 501(c)3 charitable organization. High Plains Financial is a certified Community Development Corporation that offers SBA 504 loans statewide. GFDA and High Plains Financial are Equal Opportunity Employers, Lenders and Providers.

GFDA is proud to host a Montana Small Business Development Center, a Montana APEX Accelerator, and a Montana Food & Ag Development Center. GFDA is a certified Montana MicroBusiness Development Corporation.

GFDA was the first economic development organization in the Rocky Mountain West to earn accreditation from the International Economic Development Council.

Great Falls Development Alliance | GrowGreatFallsMontana.org