Author: GFDA

Top Ten 6/4/23

Posted on by GFDA

Let’s Play Games & Toys has moved into its forever home at 417 Central Ave in downtown Great Falls. Owners Lee and Nicole Wiegand financed the new retail location through the Montana State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 loan participation program administered by GFDA. When we filmed the Wiegands at their new location, Nicole shared her experience working with GFDA on various projects and how the new, permanent location has strengthened their business; Watch the video. If you have a business startup or expansion planned that could benefit from a loan participation, contact Jill at JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1056.
GFDA’s Top 10

Here is our Top 10 for this week celebrating work and successes to grow and strengthen the Great Falls regional economy — Montana’s Golden Triangle. And, sharing business resources and skill-building opportunities to empower your success.
1) GFDA’s APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) hosted a Malmstrom “Meeting With Industry” event this week. The purpose of the event was to provide details about an upcoming Multiple Award Construction Contract (MACC). It was intended to inform interested parties about the contract opportunity and provide relevant information to potential bidders. The event was attended by 72 individual businesses with 90 people in attendance. If you would like to know more about this upcoming contract or would like a copy of the event slides, contact Lillian Sunwall at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org.

2) It’s time to vote! Ballots due this Tuesday, June 6th. GFDA urges you to support the Great Falls Library Mill Levy. Let’s keep our positive momentum going strong! The library is an important component of the health and vitality of the Great Falls community. We encourage you to spread the word and vote in favor of the levy on June 6.

3) The cost of living in the Great Falls MSA dropped from 87% of the national average to 86% last quarter, according to the highly respected C2ER Cost of Living Index. Housing in Great Falls came in at 65.5% of the national average. GFDA’s long-term goal is to strengthen and grow our regional economy while maintaining affordability. Bozeman came in at 121.4% cost of living with housing at 157.3% of the national average.

4) Mr. T’s Electronics has moved into 528 Central Avenue, the former Kenny’s Downtown convenience Store; Mrs. Wrights Pastys is moving to the Hi Ho Tavern; the West Bank Landing mixed use project is moving forward; the Airport warehouses are moving forward; and Best Donuts has announced a new Korean restaurant. Check out these and more in the Electric Business Bytes, click here.

5) GTF continues to be one of the most affordable airports in Montana, ranking second in average domestic airline itinerary fares for 2022, according to data released by the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

6) The State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 (SSBCI 2.0) low interest rate program is accepting new applications. These funds are limited and will be put to work very quickly to help our economy recover and come back stronger than ever. If you have a business startup or expansion planned that could benefit from a loan participation, contact Jill at JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1056.

7) Congratulations to Adam Lardy and his wife on their plans to re-open the Shelby Bowling Alley. The Lardy’s, a couple from Oregon, fell in love with the small town charm of Shelby and decided to move there and reopen the bowling alley. See Shelby Promoter.

8) Hello Glacier County! The GFDA team is heading North June 7th to spend time meeting with our partners and working with clients. We will have business development officers, lenders, and our business advisors available to you. There will be an Economic Development Partner Appreciation event at the Cut Bank Creek Brewery from 4-6 PM so please feel free to come network with our team and other partners growing business in North Central Montana. If you or your business have questions about our resources or would like to set up a time to meet please reach out to Tony at Tony@GrowGrestFalls.org or 406-750-2099.

9) Congratulations to Matt Pipinich, the new owner of Luna Coffee Bar in Downtown Great Falls. Matt was born and raised in Great Falls and is excited to be a business owner in Downtown. Have you been interested in buying a business in Downtown Great Falls and not sure where to start? We can help with that! Contact Christian at 406.836.0136 and let’s discuss the tools we have to help you become a new business owner.

10) Are you an agricultural producer and/or professional wanting to learn about sustainable agricultural concepts and techniques?  The WSARE (Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education) Professional Development Mini-Grant Program funds projects that include travel funding to attend a professional conference, organize a workshop, host an invited speaker at a workshop or field day, initiate a field demonstration and more! Click here for more information or contact Katesha at 4067880860 or Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

11) GFDA is sponsoring the 2nd annual Montana Multi-Cultural Fair in downtown Great Falls on August 17th starting at 5 PM. This event is a great partnership of the community and the military. Hope you join us in supporting and participating in a great fun event!

12) Central Montana Works announced the Worlds of Work (WOW) career expo will be held on Tuesday, September 26th at Great Falls College MSU and University of Providence. To register your company for the event go to: Worlds of Work (WOW) 2023. If you need to edit your existing participant profile, need assistance with registration, or additional sponsorship information, please reach out to Alyssa at alarkey@greatfallschamber.org or call 761-4434.

13) Faith in Motion Dance Studio has moved into the Columbus Center. Snit’s has opened a new casino space with a private entry off the back alley. The owners of Best Donuts are planning a Korean restaurant in the space; see The Electric.

14) GFDA’s Board adopted a new Great Falls Montana Regional Economic Development Strategy 2023-2025 based on the deep-dive market assessments we have been doing over the last year and a half. The new strategy will be released at our Annual Meeting on Tuesday, June 27th, 8 AM at The Newberry in downtown Great Falls. Register here. The Board also approved our preliminary budget for FY 2024 that starts on July 1st and appointed the first members of the GFDA Council who will be announced at the Annual Meeting.

15) Jill Kohles and Jake Clark received certification this week as Economic Development Finance Professionals (EDFP) from the National Development Council (NDC). EDFP Certification is a professional credential given to individuals who successfully complete NDC’s intensive economic development finance training series. The training provides individuals working in the field of economic development with instruction in business credit analysis, real estate financing, loan packaging, deal structuring and negotiating and the creation and implementation of development programs. Each of the four EDFP Certification Program courses are five days in length and concludes with an exam. Upon successful completion of all four courses, the candidate is awarded EDFP Certification. Our team is continually developing professionally to better serve the Great Falls region. Contact Jill or Jake to test their new abilities to bring your next project to fruition! JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org or Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org.

16) Did you know GFDA was the first Accredited Economic Development Organization in the Rocky Mountain West? Every three years all of our strategies, financials, minutes, marketing/communications; project work; and operations are reviewed by a panel of peers who make a recommendation to the wider committee on our accreditation. This week, Jolene facilitate a an International Economic Development Council panel discussion on the benefits of accreditation.

17) Fostering economic growth requires a collective effort. Our success hinges on the collaborative support we receive from our INVESTORS & public partners. Learn more about them HERE. Recent investments include: Flagship Division—ADF International, Inc; Community Division—Action Plumbing & Construction, Independence Bank, Montana Milling, Inc, Sharon Virgin, REALTOR. These investors, through their support of GFDA, actively contribute to the growth and economic vitality of our region. Their commitment fuels our mission and propels us forward. If you are interested in becoming a part of our team of investors and joining us in achieving our goals, please reach out to our Investment Director, Jenn Gallmeier, at 406-781-9499 or Jenn@GrowGreatFalls.org. We welcome the opportunity to discuss how your support can make a difference. Together, let’s continue to nurture economic growth and create a thriving future for our residents.

Big week coming up as we’re working with clients to close some exciting deals to move them forward. Have a great week!

Brett

Brett Doney

President & CEO

Top Ten 5/29/23

Posted on by GFDA

Everything is so green! View of Square Butte from First Peoples Buffalo Jump. Played tourist — first Gates of the Mountain boat ride of the season, CM Russell Museum, Missouri River dams, Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Ft. Benton, Giant Spring, Great Falls Voyagers, and many downtown Great Falls murals, stores, restaurants, and bars. What a wonderful place to visit and live!
GFDA’s Top 10

Here is our Top 19 for last week celebrating work and successes to grow and strengthen the Great Falls regional economy — Montana’s Golden Triangle. And, sharing business resources and skill-building opportunities to empower your success.
1) USAF approved the record of decision for the environmental impact assessment of the new Ground Based Strategic Deterrent (GBSD) mission, a key milestone toward construction and installation; see TheElectric.

2) GFDA was awarded a $500,000 grant from the EPA to enable us to continue to provide free brownfield assessments to support redevelopment of properties throughout Cascade County. To date, we have been able to help developers, businesses, nonprofits and public agencies with 43 phase 1 assessments and 27 phase 2 assessments. Many of these properties have been redeveloped or are in the process of being redeveloped. For help with an assessment, contact Lillian Sunwall at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-750-1253.

3) Congratulations to Sweetgrass Development which was awarded a $1 million grant to start an EPA Brownfield loan fund to help with redevelopments. Now we have four brownfield loan funds to support redevelopment in the region, GFDA, Sweetgrass, Bear Paw, and Snowy Mountain. The more resources we can bring to the Golden Triangle, the more we can help make great things happen!

4) It’s time to vote! GFDA supports the Great Falls Library Mill Levy going for a vote in the special election on June 6. The library is an important component of the health and vitality of the Great Falls community. We encourage you to spread the word and vote in favor of the levy on June 6. For more information and to join the effort, visit VoteYesGreatFallsLibrary.org.

5) Saibeen Acord, owner of Saibeen’s Kitchen located in the Columbus Center in Great Falls, will be a featured chef on the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards. The Restaurant & Chef Awards will be live-streamed on Eater beginning at 5:30 P.M. CT on Monday, June 5.

6) The State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 (SSBCI 2.0) low interest rate program is accepting new applications. These funds are limited and will be put to work very quickly to help our economy recover and come back stronger than ever. If you have a business startup or expansion planned that could benefit from a loan participation, contact Jill at JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1056.

7) Met with the City of Great Falls transportation planners to discuss key projects such as the Gore Hill intersection, business logistics needs, downtown one-way streets, commercial corridor center island improvements, pedestrian crossing between ExpoPark and West Bank Landing, transload facility, and other important aspects needed in the City’s long range transportation plan.

8) Brett and Jake networked with developers, brokers and retail, restaurant, and hospitality businesses at the annual ICSC event. We made great contacts with representatives of local brands and were not surprised to hear that so many companies are familiar with our market and interested in expanding to Great Falls. National brands tend to over perform in the Great Falls market, as evidenced by our Jersey Mike’s Subs and Café Rio being some of the highest performing in the nation! We even learned about a few franchise opportunities for local entrepreneurs and Jake is working to gather more information. If you are interested in franchising a retail or restaurant business in Great Falls, please reach out to Jake Clark, Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org.

9) Stephanie Nelson and Ashton Hofstad have opened Olivia Lain Medspa on Main Street in Conrad. Olivia Lain Medspa is the first of its kind in Conrad. Learn more in our Announcement of the Week.

10) Employers are you looking for timely data on our local workforce? 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 Lyndsay Bruno at Lyndsay@GrowGreatFalls.org or at (406) 590 – 1539 to be connected with a JobsEQ-trained Business Advisor today. To learn more about our talent attraction tools visit our website.

11) Participated in strategic planning being done by Great Falls Tourism and Central Montana Tourism to develop market-driven plans to grow and diversify local and regional tourism industry which already attracts more than $400 million/year into our economy and supports many businesses and attractions that help us retain and attract workforce talent.

12) KRTV featured Big Sky Soul, a business located in Havre and Winifred, and owned and operated by Brooke James and Stacey Heggem; see KRTV. Mrs. Wrights Pastys has moved to the Hi Ho Tavern in Great Falls. Silhouette Bridal Studio is opening June 8 at 809 9th Street South in Great Falls.

13) Jenn and Katesha visited McCafferty Ranch to view its hydroponics facility that helps produce their Grass-Fed Sprout-Finished beef, which can be purchased locally at Central Avenue Meats and enjoyed at Roadhouse Diner. If you’re a meat processor looking to start-up, upgrade, or expand get in contact with Katesha. Additionally, are you making food or ingredients with fruits and vegetables, peas and lentils, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture)? Reach out to Katesha at 406.788.0860 or Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org to see how we can help.

14) Joined as an associate member of the Montana Housing Coalition to support the creation of affordable and workforce housing.

15) One of the many tools we have for renovating your building in Downtown Great Falls is the City’s Downtown Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Grant. This 50% match grant can help with Façade, Building Code Compliance, and Safety & Security. One of the biggest uses of this grant is Fire Suppression and updating the face of your building. To find out more about this grant, call Christian at 406.836.0136 or email CLeinhauser@GrowGreatFalls.org and let’s discuss how TIF and other tools can help you change the face of Downtown Great Falls.

16) Tony traveled to Billings to participate in the spring Montana Economic Developers Association conference. The topic was “What Connects Us?” If you’d like to connect with economic growing resources in our region, please reach out to Tony at Tony@GrowGreatFalls.org for more information.

17) Shannon and Lillian attended the Quarterly Montana PTAC/APEX Accelerator Meeting in Butte. It provided them with valuable insights into the PTAC (Procurement Technical Assistance Center) transition from the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) to the Office of Small Business Programs under the Department of Defense. With this transition, they discussed the new opportunities available to them as counselors, coaches, and trainers for businesses involved in government contracting. If you are interested in government contracting, contact Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org.

18) Jolene completed her first week of the Advanced Economic Development Leadership course put together by site selectors and three universities. The course is an opportunity to engage in economic development issues with site selectors and peers. She will complete the course in the fall.

19) Thank you to our INVESTORS and public partners. Because of their generosity, we have been able to create opportunities, foster innovation, and build the foundations for a prosperous future. We are deeply honored to have their trust and support. Learn more about them HERE. Recent investments include: Pioneer Division—Wells Fargo; Pacesetter Division—Taylor’s Auto Max. We recognize the faith they have placed in us and assure them that we will continue to work tirelessly to maximize returns and ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for all. If you’d like to support us in our efforts to grow the region, reach out to Investment Director Jenn Gallmeier at 406-781-9499 or Jenn@GrowGreatFalls.org.

Brett

Brett Doney

President & CEO

Let’s Play Games & Toys find ‘forever’ home

Posted on by GFDA
Let’s Play Games and Toys is a locally owned game and toy store in downtown Great Falls. The business is owned and operated by Lee and Nicole Wiegand, and was first located at 514 Central.  When the building was sold, Wiegand’s lease was not renewed. They soon found themselves on the hunt for a new location. Lee and Nicole sought a space to purchase rather than lease and stay in downtown Great Falls. 
 
The Wiegands worked with GFDA and the Small Business Development Center on their first retail location. When the time came to relocate, they reached out to the Downtown Development Officer Christian Leinhauser and Vice President of Lending Jill Kohles to pursue financing Through the Montana State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 loan participation program, administered by GFDA; the Wiegands funded the purchase of their new retail location at 417 Central Ave in Great Falls.
 
“Our mortgage payment is actually almost half of what we were paying for rent, so our monthly expenses have gone down significantly, and we own it,” said Nicole. “There is no way we would be where we are today without the help of GFDA over the years. There is just absolutely no way. Even if they just want to kick around some ideas, the small business development center is perfect because you get help, especially with budgeting and analysis, and can even afford your idea. We now have a forever home.”

Top Ten 5/21/23

Posted on by GFDA

The new field at the Great Falls Voyagers is ready for action. Thank you to the City of Great Falls for investing in its ballpark. Opening night this Tuesday!
GFDA’s Top 10

Here is our Top 19 for the this week celebrating work and successes to grow and strengthen the Great Falls regional economy — Montana’s Golden Triangle. And, sharing business resources and skill-building opportunities to empower your success.
1) Students of Great Falls Public Schools celebrated completion of the 45th High School House! See KRTV. Development of a 24-lot subdivision in Ft. Benton is making progress; see KRTV.

2) We were on hand to speak in favor of NeighborWorks Great Falls request to the Great Falls City Commissioners for HOME and HOME-ARPA funds for $2.15 million for the Baatz project. The Commissioners unanimously approved this project as it fits the intention of the HOME and HOME-ARPA funding perfectly and is critical for the renovation of the Baatz building to move forward. To learn more, read TheElectric story here.

3) Brett and Jake represented GFDA as sponsors and exhibitors at the Montana Housing Partnership Conference in Helena. We were able to make great connections, especially with firms pursuing tax credit housing projects in Great Falls. Jake was also featured on a panel describing the opportunity to partner with local economic development organizations, bringing valuable tools to complex projects. If you have a project that could use some support and would like to know more about available tools, please contact Jake Clark at Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org.

4) GFDA supports the Great Falls Library Mill Levy going for a vote in the special election on June 6. The library is an important component of the health and vitality of the Great Falls community. We encourage you to spread the word and vote in favor of the levy on June 6. For more information and to join the effort, visit VoteYesGreatFallsLibrary.org.

5) Patti Jo Lane has opened Folláin Physical Therapy at the Haute Hive co-working space in Great Falls at 721 Central, Suite 210. Patti Jo has practiced in Great Falls for 20 years and is excited to open her own practice. Learn more about ways the Haute Hive co-working space is an ideal location for Patti Jo Lane’s practice in our Announcement of the Week.

6) The State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 (SSBCI 2.0) low interest rate program is accepting new applications. If you have a project that could move forward with the benefit of low interest rate funding. These funds are limited and will be put to work very quickly to help our economy recover and come back stronger than ever. If you have a business startup or expansion planned that could benefit from a loan participation, contact Jill at JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1056.

7) Rocky Boy Health Center is getting a new $11.3 million facility; see Missoulian. Teton Peak Assisted Living in Choteau has expanded, adding seven independent living rooms; see Choteau Acantha.

8) Our APEX Accelerator (formerly Procurement Technical Assistance Center) team met with Martin DeWitt, Senior Area Manager, Montana District Office from SBA. We discussed SBA Set-Aside Certifications, what is going on with government contracting in our region and what trainings are available for APEX to assist our small businesses. If you would like more information on how Set-Aside Certifications can give your business an edge in bidding on contract opportunities, contact Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org.

9) We are working to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, defined as pulse crops and fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). If you are a Specialty Crop producer in North Central, Montana we have resources that can help! Please contact Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org or 406.788.0860.

10) GFDA completed a Phase I for the Carter Commons Project in downtown Great Falls. We are excited to see this much needed, affordable housing project take it’s next step towards completion. For more information on how Our Team can help you with your upcoming projects, please contact LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org.

11) The 341st Contracting Squadron at Malmstrom Air Force Base (MAFB) in coordination with the GF PTAC/APEX Accelerator office (GFDA) is holding a “Meeting With Industry” event for a potential Multiple Award Construction Contract (MACC) with an anticipated aggregate capacity of $200 million. The event will be held at the Holiday Inn & Convention Center at 1100 5th Street South, Great Falls, MT, on 31 May from 9:00 AM to approximately 11:00 AM. Presentation topics will include the following: Capabilities of the PTAC/APEX Accelerator office, Mission and unique contracting requirements at MAFB, Roles of relevant agencies and personnel at MAFB, including the Small Business Program, and MACC general scope, estimated timelines, and “checklist items” for potential offerors. There will also be time for questions and answers. Attendees should bring copies of their capability statements and can reference the relevant Sources Sought posted to SAM.gov for more information. For more information, contact Lillian Sunwall at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org. To register for the event click here.

12) Jake had the opportunity to feature the Great Falls housing demand in a webinar hosted by the Urban Land Institute on May 11. As a follow up, Jake is headed to Boise, ID on June 9th to meet with interested developers. If you have suggestions for meetings Jake should set up while he is in Boise, please connect with Jake at Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org.

13) Great Falls Public Schools plays a pivotal role in preparing students for in-demand jobs in fields such as agriculture, health care and industrial technology. We are producing a series of videos featuring top employers in Great Falls. This week we highlight Ms. Reannon Medrano. Ms. Medrano relocated to Great Falls this year from Texas and teaches high school math at CMR and Great Falls High. Ms. Medrano talks about the excellent support system GFPS has for new teachers and staff. Watch the video [http://teacher%20reannon%20medrano/]here. Learn more about top employers in the Great Falls region at LiveinGreatFalls.com.

14) If you’ve ever wanted to buy a building or open a business in Downtown Great Falls, now is the time!  There are currently multiple buildings for lease and sale and we have the tools to help make your dream into a reality. Call Christian at 406-836-0136 and let’s discuss how we can help you Invest in Downtown Great Falls!

15) Are you a farm, ranch, or other agricultural worker that earns a wage but still has a hard time supporting yourself and your family? Rural Employment Opportunity’s National Farmworker Jobs Program offers opportunities for workers, and/or their qualifying family members, to improve their earning capacity in agriculture or in careers outside of agriculture. Click here for more information or contact Katesha at 1-406-788-0860 or Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

16) This week Tony will be heading east to Billings to attend the Montana Economic Developers Association conference. This is a great opportunity to connect and learn from leaders in the economic development community and to bring those ideas back to the Great Falls region. Do you know how to partner with economic developers to benefit your project? Reach out to Tony, our Small Business Navigator to learn how! Tony@GrowGreatFalls.org.

17) Jake and Brett are on the road again this week. Next stop, Las Vegas, NV, for the International Council of Shopping Centers annual conference. This three-day event is an opportunity to connect with dealmakers and industry experts to bring more retail variety to the Great Falls market. Have a space you’d like to fill with a national or regional brand? Reach out to Jake Clark at Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org.

18) Help put together the new transportation plan for the Great Falls area. The Great Falls Metropolitan Planning Organization is developing the 2023 Great Falls Area Long Range Transportation Plan. They are holding a public open house on Monday, May 22, 4:00-6:00 PM in the Commission Chambers of the Great Falls Civic Center. More info on TheElectric.

19) We are grateful to our dedicated INVESTORS & public partners. Their investment paves the way for economic progress, innovation, and prosperity, and we are privileged to have them as partners in our mission.Learn more about them HERE. Recent investments include: Community Division-Hi-Line Moving & Storage. They are helping us to implement strategic initiatives, attract investments, and foster sustainable growth in our region. Contact Investment Director Jenn Gallmeier at 406-781-9499 or Jenn@GrowGreatFalls.org to find out how you can be a part of the team that is growing Great Falls!

Flew to Las Vegas at o’dark hundred this morning for three days of networking with real estate brokers, developers, retailers, restauranters, and hoteliers.

Make it an exciting week!

Brett Doney

President & CEO

GFDA Staff Openings

We have two great career opportunities to join the GFDA staff team. Download info on Business Development Officer and Small Business Advisor — Director Regional Small Business Development Center. GFDA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer!

Cost-Effective Rail-Served Industrial Sites Available

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; download AgriTech Park Flyer. Contact Jolene Schalper at 1.406.750.4481 or JSchalper@GrowGreatFalls.org

May SBA 504 Loan Rates

The 25-year loan effective rate (including all fees) is 6.020%; 20-year at 6.072%; 10-year equipment loan at 6.036%; and, 20-year refinance 6.090%; 25-year refinance 6.038%. 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 406-590-1056 or JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org.
Events, Business Training, and Opportunities
We launched the new Livability Great Falls Magazine. Find and share Livability Great Falls online or contact Lyndsay Bruno at Lyndsay@GrowGreatFalls.org or (406) 590 – 1539 for hard copies of the magazine.

Recruiters are you hiring for a job position that is a:

  • High level position
  • High salary position
  • Out-of-the-box/unique/creative position?

Help us attract workforce to move to Great Falls – send us a one sentence description of the job, 3-5 of your company’s top employee benefits, salary (if listed), and link to apply for your job to Lyndsay@GrowGreatFalls.org to be included in the Hot Jobs in Great Falls blog post.

The 2023 Montana Food and Beverage Show, hosted by the Montana Department of Agriculture, is scheduled for October 16 in Missoula. The show allows Montana businesses ro showcase their food and beverage products to professional buyers from restaurants, hotels, bars, retailers, and more.

The Montana Department of Commerce has two new programs that we encourage businesses to take advantage of. The Montana Cybersecurity Program will provide up to $8,000 reimbursement for your cybersecurity expenses; applications due May 30. The Automation Loan Program offers 0% loans for up to 50% of the cost of automation equipment up to $500,000; deadline December 31. These are one-time programs funded through ARPA so don’t miss out. And don’t forget about funds available for your workforce through the Incumbent Worker Training Program and the Primary Workforce Training Grant. We can help you access these programs if you run into snags.

Navy Week – Doing Business with the Department of Navy & GovMatch Event (Billings Depot on Montana Avenue) – Join the Montana APEX Accelerator (formerly known as Procurement Technical Assistance Center – PTAC) August 9th from 9 AM – 5 PM as they welcome Mr. David E. Walz to Billings. Mr. Walz is the Deputy Small Business Program, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Keyport. He serves as the principal advisor and advocate to the commander, senior management, contracts, and the technical department on all matters pertaining to small business program. During this event, businesses will receive information on the following topics: 1. Department of the Navy (DON) Office of Small Business Programs’ Achievements and Goals 2. The DON OSBP Mentor-Protégé Program 3. Preparing for the DON procurement process 4. Resources and assistance to help businesses 5. GovMatch event in the afternoon. You will be able to meet with various other federal agencies in the afternoon. To register, click here. If you have any questions, contact Shannon Clancy SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org.

USDA opened a new round of Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants and loans. Rural small businesses and agricultural producers can use the funds to make energy-efficiency improvements to lower operating costs or to install renewable energy systems. Quarterly competitions will be held through September 30th. See MATR.net for more info. USDA’s Value-Added Producer Grants program is also open. This program helps independent producers, agricultural producer groups, farmer and rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer businesses to start or expand processing operations or marketing of processed ag products. Applications are due May 11. Contact Katesha Campbell if you would like help with applying; Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-788-0860.

The Montana Manufacturing Extension Center has launched an apprenticeship program. The Certified Manufacturing Associate Apprenticeship is a one-year program that combines on-the-job training with online technical classes on safety, math and measurements, manufacturing processes, and quality control.

The Montana Department of Commerce has an open Recovery Destination Event grant round. Eligible Montana events that attract tourists could win grants up to $25,000.

Are you in the planning and development phase of expanding your agricultural product or adding value to Montana agriculture by expanding your product into new markets? Montana’s Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) Business Acceleration Program (BAP) and Market Development Program (MDP) grants could help! Funds are available; click here for more information or contact Katesha at Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

The 341st Contracting Squadron, Malmstrom Air Force Base (AFB), is contemplating a solicitation for a multiple award contract (MAC) and is looking for responses to this Sources Sought Notification. Awarded MAC indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts would be for the construction of structures and facilities, repair, maintenance, and alteration of real property assets within the confines of Malmstrom AFB, Weapons Storage Area (WSA), and Missile Alert Facility (MAF) and Launch Facility (LF) sites located within the Missile Complex throughout Montana. This is a great opportunity to Introduce your company to the Contracting Wing at Malmstrom AFB. Do you have a Capability Statement prepared that you can provide with your Sources Sought reply? If not, contact us at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org. For more information on the Notice, click here.

Are you working on a project that will not only bring new agricultural opportunities to Montana’s rural communities but also provide education to youth and adults alike? Then the Montana Farmers Union Grant might be for you! Competitive grants are open to anyone in Montana. Deadline to apply is May 1, 2023; click here for more information or to apply. Additional questions, call 406.788.0860 or email Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

 

ArtsFest Montana will return to downtown Great Falls August 11-18. The Business Improvement District is looking for property owners who would like to have a professionally painted mural installed on their building. Contact Kellie at kellie@downtowngreatfalls.net or 1-406-727-5430. See TheElectric for more details.

If you are trying to redevelop a property that involves an environmental cleanup (including lead paint and asbestos) and you have a gap in your financing, your project may qualify for our low-interest brownfield redevelopment loan funds. We can make loans anywhere in Cascade County or within 100 miles from the borders of Cascade County which covers much of the region. We’re eager to help make your project move forward. Contact Tony Peres at 1-406-750-2099 or Tony@GrowGreatFalls.org. We also have some small business or nonprofit startup or expansion loan funds available for Glacier and Blaine counties.

Employers, are you aware of the Incumbent Worker Training program, Trades education & Training Tax Credit, and other resources available at the Montana Department of Labor & Industry? Check out their latest resource newsletter.

The Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative is offering funding through its 4th “F” Fund (4FF) to provide direct assistance to Montana bioscience entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses in need of money for travel to key conferences, small equipment purchases, or temporary staff assistance in relation to proposal development, etc. This fund is designed for maximum flexibility in support of new and established businesses and entrepreneurs in the bioscience industry. The fund will provide grants of $250 to $5,000. In exceptional circumstances the fund may consider larger applications. Grants may be awarded in phases (e.g. $1,000 initially with additional $1,000 on achieving specific milestone). More info and application here.

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.

Do you have open government contracts? Is your SAM.gov registered due to renew in the next few months? SAM.gov continues to have issues with the transition of the new validation process. It is recommended that businesses start early to renew their registration to keep from going inactive. If you are having trouble getting through the process, contact Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org for assistance.

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.

Montana STEP grants can pay for 75% of your international export marketing efforts up to $10,000. The Montana TechLink Center at MSU is offering a new round of workshops on how to win Small Business Innovation Research funding.

We have migrated our pre-business workshop for early stage and pre-venture startups to a self-paced, video-facilitated, online format. Business Basics for Startups is now live and ready for beta testing. If you’d like to check out the content and provide feedback, we’d appreciate it. Click here to check out the new modules and resources. Please direct feedback to Rich at RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org.

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.

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.

Join the Trailing Partner Email Group specifically for employers to share resumes of trailing spouses/partners across the Great Falls region with other employers looking to hire. “Your (Live in Great Falls) website is very impressive and helpful! Great Falls looks amazing, and we love what we’ve seen real estate-wise, and business-wise.” This quote was from an email sent to us from a couple considering relocation to Great Falls. We will be sharing their resumes (with their permission) on the Trailing Partner Email Group.

The Great Falls Housing Market Assessment shows a need for over 450 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.

Visit our relocation website LiveInGreatFalls.com. This website was the #1 request we got from local recruiters and HR professionals for aiding in attracting talented workers to Great Falls. The Great Falls At-A-Glance two-pager is a great complementary resource that highlights Great Falls for people unfamiliar with our community.

 

We have Brownfield Clean-Up money that we want to put to work! Our low interest Brownfield Loans can be used to clean up hazardous materials including but not limited to lead paint, asbestos, etc. Are you working on a project that could use some clean up? Call Lillian today to discuss eligibility 406.750.1253 or LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org.

Of our online business planning tool, LivePlan, one said: “LivePlan is Awesome!” The LivePlan tool is helping her streamline her strategy in preparation for presenting to bank partners. We offer LivePlan licenses for free to active clients. Learn more about LivePlan on our website.

All of our recorded monthly business strategy webinars are available online for viewing anytime, click them out here.

Top Ten 5-14-23

Posted on by GFDA
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Celebrated the first shipment of Montana Renewables’ Sustainable Aviation Fuel with leaders of Calumet Specialty Products Partners, Montana Renewables, Delta Airlines, Shell, American Express, and Governor Gianforte. By 2025, Montana Renewables will be producing 250 million gallons of Sustainable Aviation Fuel per year! See KRTV and TheElectric.
GFDA’s Top 10

Here is our Top 10 for the last two weeks celebrating work and successes to grow and strengthen the Great Falls regional economy — Montana’s Golden Triangle. And, sharing business resources and skill-building opportunities to empower your success.
1) We made a $500,000 loan to Little Shell Pet Products LLC to purchase equipment. The purchase of this equipment will allow the new company to take over the operations of a Cascade County primary sector manufacturing operation that was in the process of closing. We are excited to help keep the manufacturing of these pet products in Great Falls and to support the Little Shell Tribe’s economic development efforts! Contact Jill Kohles to learn about the different financing tools available to help your business to start, expand or innovate, JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org.

2) Congratulations to Julie Curtis, new owner of Nosh Catering & Kitchen, on their new location at 4307 North Star Boulevard in Great Falls; see KRTV. Congratulations to Annie Olson on opening Badger Track Customs in Choteau. The business does embroidery, signage and more. Read the Choteau Acantha for the full story.

3) Met with dozens of companies looking to locate in the United States at the US Department of Commerce’s annual SelectUSA Investment Summit in DC. This event allows us to meet US consult services across the globe in a centralized location. Many times the consulates are the first point of contact for a foreign company looking to move to the US so we work to build strong relationships with them. GFDA is proud to have participated in every SelectUSA annual summit.

4) The Great Falls Area Career Expo is this Wednesday, May 17th, 3-6 PM at the University of Providence McLaughlin Center. To register as an employer, please return your completed registration form and a copy of your payment confirmation to Job Service – Great Falls, Career Expo, e-mail to greatfallsjsc@mt.gov. To pay your $10.00 table fee, click here.

5) Great Falls Public Schools was recognized as one of the Best Communities for Music Education for the 12th consecutive year; see TheElectric and KRTV. GFDA is proud to be a supporting partner of Kids Education Yes that supports public education in Great Falls.

6) At our Talent Attraction Reception at Independence Bank in Great Falls, we launched the new Livability Great Falls Magazine, heard from Branch President Chad Simonson about the company’s growth, and the owner of Spices and Spurs and Mise en Place Kitchen Cassie Campbell on her business expansion. Recruiter Collette Brown talked about ways ADF uses GFDA’s talent attraction tools. Several new Great Falls residents shared reasons why they chose to move to the community, including Richard Armstrong, a software engineer who works remotely, and Anna Flies, owner of the newly opened Alder Acupuncture.

“On the 4th of July weekend, we visited for the first time and fell in love with the community, The Newberry, Elevation, The Enbar – all the spots. We put an offer in on a house on our third visit and moved here six weeks later. It feels like our social schedules are even busier than they were in Seattle,” said Anna.

“It’s been nice being here and able to afford a house. In Seattle, we would have needed to add an extra zero to the price of the home. It’s been a really cool opportunity, great environment and wonderful people,” said Richard.

Find and share Livability Great Falls online or contact Lyndsay Bruno at Lyndsay@GrowGreatFalls.org or (406) 590 – 1539 for hard copies of the magazine.

7) Often times there is a portion of a project that the bank cannot finance and the borrower cannot fund. This is where GFDA financing may be available to help fill that gap. Our Loan Committee approved two gap loans this week. The first loan was in the amount of $2.5 million dollars to help fill the gap on cost overruns on a major construction project. The second was for $1.75 million dollars to help a meat company expand in several different areas within their current business. Both businesses would not have been able to proceed if not for the resources available at GFDA. Does your project have a financing gap? Please reach out to Jill Kohles at 406-590-1056 or JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org to discuss your options.

8) We completed a free Phase I Assessment for a developer of a potential housing project that could add much need housing for the Great Falls regional market. Do you have a site or property that you are interested in for a project? A Phase I Assessment could give you information to determine if there are potential environmental conditions that may need to be assessed. Contact Lillian Sunwall with any questions to look at next steps for your project at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org.

9) Are you an agricultural producer or rural business owner who has a project that will reduce your businesses energy costs and consumption? The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) summer grant opportunity provides grants and loans to help! This grant opportunity’s first cycle will close at on June 30th. Click here  for more information or contact Katesha at 406.788.0860 or Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

10) We’re getting excited for Downtown Great Falls’ newest upscale boutique hotel, The Gibson, opening this season as part of Choice Hotel’s Ascend Collection. Check out the modern design by Spark Architecture.

11) On Thursday Jake presented a webinar on opportunities in the Great Falls housing market hosted by the Urban Land Institute district of Idaho – Montana. More than 20 people registered for the webinar, most of whom represented housing developers in the Boise area. Jake is headed to Boise, ID for follow up meetings on June 8-10. If you know of housing developers in the Boise, ID area that Jake should reach out to, let him know at Jake@GrowGreatFalls.org.

12) Cut Bank is home to the new hub for business Marketplace on Main. Owned by Rod and Lisa Cline Marketplace on Main is a central location for several businesses, two art galleries, an event space and more. Learn more about this unique business marketplace specializing in Made in Montana products located in the heart of Cut Bank’s downtown in our Announcement of the Week.

13) Our small business advisor, Rich Gannon, in conjunction with Montana State Extension Service, presented at a webinar on Using AI to Enhance Your Marketing Strategies. If you’d like to learn how to integrate artificial intelligence for marketing into your business contact Rich at RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org or call him at 406-836-2078.

14) The State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 (SSBCI 2.0) low interest rate program is accepting new applications. If you have a project that could move forward with the benefit of low interest rate funding. These funds are limited and will be put to work very quickly to help our economy recover and come back stronger than ever. If you have a business startup or expansion planned that could benefit from a loan participation, contact Jill at JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-590-1056.

15) Tony headed north to Glacier County to visit with companies gearing up for the summer tourism season and to meet with lenders and business owners identifying loan funds that can be used in Glacier and Blaine counties. Funds that can be utilized for working capital, startups, expansions, workforce, and more. That’s just one of many loan funds we can deploy in our 13 county region and even throughout the state. If you’d like to know more about how we can work with your bank to help get a deal done for you please reach out to Tony at Tony@GrowGreatFalls.org or 406-750-2099.

16) Angel Care is expanding in Montana to include five locations. Based in Havre, Angel Care provides home healthcare for seniors, the elderly and people with disabilities. Learn about Angel Care’s tremendous work with the Alzheimer’s Association and the company’s growth in our Announcement of the Week.

17) Wheat and barley aren’t the only crops grown in North Central Montana. Our region is a top producer of peas, lentils, honey, and more. Call Katesha to chat about OUR Montana Specialty Crops and the impact they make all over the world! Call 406.788.0860 or email Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

18) The 341st Contracting Squadron at Malmstrom Air Force Base (MAFB) in coordination with the GF PTAC/APEX Accelerator office (GFDA) is holding a “Meeting With Industry” event for a potential Multiple Award Construction Contract (MACC) with an anticipated aggregate capacity of $200 million. The event will be held at the Holiday Inn & Convention Center at 1100 5th Street South, Great Falls, MT, on 31 May from 9:00 AM to approximately 11:00 AM. Presentation topics will include the following: Capabilities of the PTAC/APEX Accelerator office, Mission and unique contracting requirements at MAFB, Roles of relevant agencies and personnel at MAFB, including the Small Business Program, and MACC general scope, estimated timelines, and “checklist items” for potential offerors. There will also be time for questions and answers. Attendees should bring copies of their capability statements and can reference the relevant Sources Sought posted to SAM.gov for more information. For more information, contact Lillian Sunwall at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org. To register for the event click here.

19) GFDA supports the Great Falls Library Mill Levy going for a vote in the special election on June 6 and this week the Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Board also voted to support the Library levy. The library is an important component of the health and vitality of the Great Falls community. We encourage you to spread the word and vote in favor of the levy on June 6. For more information and to join the effort, visit VoteYesGreatFallsLibrary.org.

20) Brett and Jake are headed down to Helena for the Montana Housing Partnership Conference. We will be networking with housing partners throughout the state and exhibiting, promoting the Great Falls housing market to potential developers. Headed to the conference? Be sure to stop by the “Economic Developers as Partners to Meet Housing Needs” panel, Jake is a panelist!

21) Help put together the new transportation plan for the Great Falls area. The Great Falls Metropolitan Planning Organization is developing the 2023 Great Falls Area Long Range Transportation Plan. They are holding a public open house on Monday, May 22, 4:00-6:00 PM in the Commission Chambers of the Great Falls Civic Center. More info on TheElectric.

22) Are you a farm, ranch, or other agricultural worker that earns a wage but still has a hard time supporting yourself and your family? Rural Employment Opportunity’s National Farmworker Jobs Program offers opportunities for workers, and/or their qualifying family members, to improve their earning capacity in agriculture or in careers outside of agriculture! Click here for more information or contact Katesha at 4067880860 or Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

23) Submitted our application to the Montana Department of Agriculture to renew our Food & Ag Development Center. In the last two years, our regional center has served 210 clients in the Golden Triangle. The food, ag, and bio processing industries are core to GFDA’s economic development strategy.

24) Helped teach Intro and Advanced Revolving Loan Fund courses for the Council of Development Finance Agencies, part of GFDA’s giving back!

25) Tracy Heggem started work on the GFDA team as our first Executive Assistant. We’re looking for two more great team members, Small Business Development Center Regional Director and Business Development Officer. Download our Career Openings and help us spread the word.

26) The support from our INVESTORS & public partners is critical to the success of our local economy, and we are deeply grateful for their commitment to our cause. Learn more about our supporters HERE. Recent investments include: Advance Division—Culligan Water and Northwestern Energy; Community Division—Nelson Architects. With their help, we can continue to develop and implement innovative strategies to support our local economy and make our community a better place to live and work. To find out how you can support the economic vitality of our region, reach out to Investment Director Jenn Gallmeier at 406-781-9499 or Jenn@GrowGreatFalls.org.

It’s been an exciting two weeks. The next few weeks look even more exciting as we see more projects move into construction and open.

Have a great week!

Brett Doney

President & CEO

Download our GFDA Services and Staff Team handout or our GFDA 2023Q1 Quarter Index. View the We Are Great Falls video!

GFDA Staff Openings

We have two great career opportunities to join the GFDA staff team. Download info on Business Development Officer and Small Business Advisor — Director Regional Small Business Development Center. GFDA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer!

Cost-Effective Rail-Served Industrial Sites Available

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; download AgriTech Park Flyer. Contact Jolene Schalper at 1.406.750.4481 or JSchalper@GrowGreatFalls.org

May SBA 504 Loan Rates

The 25-year loan effective rate (including all fees) is 6.020%; 20-year at 6.072%; 10-year equipment loan at 6.036%; and, 20-year refinance 6.090%; 25-year refinance 6.038%. 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 406-590-1056 or JKohles@GrowGreatFalls.org.
Events, Business Training, and Opportunities
MDT’s Small Business Enterprise Program is holding a free Highway Construction Bidding & Estimating Workshop and Small Business Office Hours; May 18 Bozeman; May 25 Missoula; see MATR.net.

Recruiters are you hiring for a job position that is a:

  • High level position
  • High salary position
  • Out-of-the-box/unique/creative position?

Help us attract workforce to move to Great Falls – send us a one sentence description of the job, 3-5 of your company’s top employee benefits, salary (if listed), and link to apply for your job to Lyndsay@GrowGreatFalls.org to be included in the Hot Jobs in Great Falls blog post.

FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) Region 8 will be hosting a virtual Industry Outreach Event/Webinar on “How to Do Business with FEMA” on Tuesday, May 16th at 11:00 – 2PM (MDT) for interested Vendors/Businesses. For more information or the link to the Zoom Meeting, contact Lillian Sunwall LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org.

The 2023 Montana Food and Beverage Show, hosted by the Montana Department of Agriculture, is scheduled for October 16 in Missoula. The show allows Montana businesses ro showcase their food and beverage products to professional buyers from restaurants, hotels, bars, retailers, and more.

The Montana Department of Commerce has two new programs that we encourage businesses to take advantage of. The Montana Cybersecurity Program will provide up to $8,000 reimbursement for your cybersecurity expenses; applications due May 30. The Automation Loan Program offers 0% loans for up to 50% of the cost of automation equipment up to $500,000; deadline December 31. These are one-time programs funded through ARPA so don’t miss out. And don’t forget about funds available for your workforce through the Incumbent Worker Training Program and the Primary Workforce Training Grant. We can help you access these programs if you run into snags.

Navy Week – Doing Business with the Department of Navy & GovMatch Event (Billings Depot on Montana Avenue) – Join the Montana APEX Accelerator (formerly known as Procurement Technical Assistance Center – PTAC) August 9th from 9 AM – 5 PM as they welcome Mr. David E. Walz to Billings. Mr. Walz is the Deputy Small Business Program, Naval Undersea Warfare Center Division, Keyport. He serves as the principal advisor and advocate to the commander, senior management, contracts, and the technical department on all matters pertaining to small business program. During this event, businesses will receive information on the following topics: 1. Department of the Navy (DON) Office of Small Business Programs’ Achievements and Goals 2. The DON OSBP Mentor-Protégé Program 3. Preparing for the DON procurement process 4. Resources and assistance to help businesses 5. GovMatch event in the afternoon. You will be able to meet with various other federal agencies in the afternoon. To register, click here. If you have any questions, contact Shannon Clancy SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org.

USDA opened a new round of Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) grants and loans. Rural small businesses and agricultural producers can use the funds to make energy-efficiency improvements to lower operating costs or to install renewable energy systems. Quarterly competitions will be held through September 30th. See MATR.net for more info. USDA’s Value-Added Producer Grants program is also open. This program helps independent producers, agricultural producer groups, farmer and rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer businesses to start or expand processing operations or marketing of processed ag products. Applications are due May 11. Contact Katesha Campbell if you would like help with applying; Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org or 1-406-788-0860.

The Montana Manufacturing Extension Center has launched an apprenticeship program. The Certified Manufacturing Associate Apprenticeship is a one-year program that combines on-the-job training with online technical classes on safety, math and measurements, manufacturing processes, and quality control.

The Montana Department of Commerce has an open Recovery Destination Event grant round. Eligible Montana events that attract tourists could win grants up to $25,000.

Are you in the planning and development phase of expanding your agricultural product or adding value to Montana agriculture by expanding your product into new markets? Montana’s Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) Business Acceleration Program (BAP) and Market Development Program (MDP) grants could help! Funds are available; click here for more information or contact Katesha at Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

The 341st Contracting Squadron, Malmstrom Air Force Base (AFB), is contemplating a solicitation for a multiple award contract (MAC) and is looking for responses to this Sources Sought Notification. Awarded MAC indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contracts would be for the construction of structures and facilities, repair, maintenance, and alteration of real property assets within the confines of Malmstrom AFB, Weapons Storage Area (WSA), and Missile Alert Facility (MAF) and Launch Facility (LF) sites located within the Missile Complex throughout Montana. This is a great opportunity to Introduce your company to the Contracting Wing at Malmstrom AFB. Do you have a Capability Statement prepared that you can provide with your Sources Sought reply? If not, contact us at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org. For more information on the Notice, click here.

Are you working on a project that will not only bring new agricultural opportunities to Montana’s rural communities but also provide education to youth and adults alike? Then the Montana Farmers Union Grant might be for you! Competitive grants are open to anyone in Montana. Deadline to apply is May 1, 2023; click here for more information or to apply. Additional questions, call 406.788.0860 or email Katesha@GrowGreatFalls.org.

 

ArtsFest Montana will return to downtown Great Falls August 11-18. The Business Improvement District is looking for property owners who would like to have a professionally painted mural installed on their building. Contact Kellie at kellie@downtowngreatfalls.net or 1-406-727-5430. See TheElectric for more details.

If you are trying to redevelop a property that involves an environmental cleanup (including lead paint and asbestos) and you have a gap in your financing, your project may qualify for our low-interest brownfield redevelopment loan funds. We can make loans anywhere in Cascade County or within 100 miles from the borders of Cascade County which covers much of the region. We’re eager to help make your project move forward. Contact Tony Peres at 1-406-750-2099 or Tony@GrowGreatFalls.org. We also have some small business or nonprofit startup or expansion loan funds available for Glacier and Blaine counties.

MSU Extension’s Community Development team is offering a monthly Reimagining Rural Inspiration Hour webinar the third Wednesday of each month from 11:30 AM to 12:45 PM. See all the topics and register for free here.

The Veteran Small Business Certification Program Has Moved to SBA. Firms verified by the VA Center for Verification and Evaluation (CVE) as of January 1st are automatically granted certification by SBA for the remainder of the firm’s eligibility period. SBA intends to grant a one-time, one-year extension of certification to current VOSBs and SDVOSBs verified by the VA as of the transfer date on January 1, 2023. This additional year will be added to the existing eligibility period of a current participant. New applicants certified by SBA after January 1st will receive the standard three-year certification period. SBA is now accepting applications for certification. For more information, contact Lillian Sunwall at LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org or (406) 750-1253.

Employers, are you aware of the Incumbent Worker Training program, Trades education & Training Tax Credit, and other resources available at the Montana Department of Labor & Industry? Check out their latest resource newsletter.

The White House released a Guidebook to the Inflation Reduction Act. There are many tax incentives that will be available for businesses, non-profits, and public agencies to reduce their energy costs and build new power generating facilities. We’ll be organizing briefings and trainings to help you learn and take advantage of these as more guidance is released. For now, download the Guidebook here. The National Association of Counties has prepared a summary of the IRA; view it here.

Have You Reviewed the New FCC Map? The FCC recently released a new map showing broadband availability across the country. Why is this important? There is more than $42 billion in federal grant funding available for broadband infrastructure development projects, and it will be allocated based on the number of unserved and underserved locations identified in the FCC map. The FCC Broadband Map is available online, and you can enter a specific address to see the data on broadband speed and availability for a specific location. If you have questions or concerns about the information, the deadline for submitting challenges to the map is January 13. Online resources can guide you through the challenge process.

 

The Montana Work-Based Learning Collaborative, a network of public and private partners working to expand and improve on-the-job learning for Montana students, has released its first Work-Based Learning Toolkit for Employers. The toolkit provides outlines, forms, and frameworks for employers in four key areas for work-based learning success: meaningful projects, welcoming community, mentorship, and expectations/feedback. Download toolkit.

Export Montana, part of the Montana Department of Commerce (MDOC), is organizing a trade mission to the Czech Republic and Hungary in June. They have grant funds to pay for 75% of the costs plus $2,000 toward travel costs. Grant funds are available for any of your export business development efforts. Contact Angelyn Deyoung, MDOC International Trade Officer, at adeyoung@mt.gov or 1-406-431-5075.

The Montana Bioscience Cluster Initiative is offering funding through its 4th “F” Fund (4FF) to provide direct assistance to Montana bioscience entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses in need of money for travel to key conferences, small equipment purchases, or temporary staff assistance in relation to proposal development, etc. This fund is designed for maximum flexibility in support of new and established businesses and entrepreneurs in the bioscience industry. The fund will provide grants of $250 to $5,000. In exceptional circumstances the fund may consider larger applications. Grants may be awarded in phases (e.g. $1,000 initially with additional $1,000 on achieving specific milestone). More info and application here.

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.

Do you have open government contracts? Is your SAM.gov registered due to renew in the next few months? SAM.gov continues to have issues with the transition of the new validation process. It is recommended that businesses start early to renew their registration to keep from going inactive. If you are having trouble getting through the process, contact Shannon Clancy at SClancy@GrowGreatFalls.org for assistance.

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.

Montana STEP grants can pay for 75% of your international export marketing efforts up to $10,000. The Montana TechLink Center at MSU is offering a new round of workshops on how to win Small Business Innovation Research funding.

We have migrated our pre-business workshop for early stage and pre-venture startups to a self-paced, video-facilitated, online format. Business Basics for Startups is now live and ready for beta testing. If you’d like to check out the content and provide feedback, we’d appreciate it. Click here to check out the new modules and resources. Please direct feedback to Rich at RGannon@GrowGreatFalls.org.

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.

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.

Join the Trailing Partner Email Group specifically for employers to share resumes of trailing spouses/partners across the Great Falls region with other employers looking to hire. “Your (Live in Great Falls) website is very impressive and helpful! Great Falls looks amazing, and we love what we’ve seen real estate-wise, and business-wise.” This quote was from an email sent to us from a couple considering relocation to Great Falls. We will be sharing their resumes (with their permission) on the Trailing Partner Email Group.

The Great Falls Housing Market Assessment shows a need for over 450 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.

Visit our relocation website LiveInGreatFalls.com. This website was the #1 request we got from local recruiters and HR professionals for aiding in attracting talented workers to Great Falls. The Great Falls At-A-Glance two-pager is a great complementary resource that highlights Great Falls for people unfamiliar with our community.

 

We have Brownfield Clean-Up money that we want to put to work! Our low interest Brownfield Loans can be used to clean up hazardous materials including but not limited to lead paint, asbestos, etc. Are you working on a project that could use some clean up? Call Lillian today to discuss eligibility 406.750.1253 or LSunwall@GrowGreatFalls.org.

Of our online business planning tool, LivePlan, one said: “LivePlan is Awesome!” The LivePlan tool is helping her streamline her strategy in preparation for presenting to bank partners. We offer LivePlan licenses for free to active clients. Learn more about LivePlan on our website.

All of our recorded monthly business strategy webinars are available online for viewing anytime, click them out here.