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Why Denmark Removed 40 Percent of Greenland From the Economy—and What It Teaches Us About Modern Capital
Denmark’s decision reveals something important: Not everything that can be monetized must be. And, more important, not everything should be exposed to economic optimization.
You Are Invited as University of Montana Students Compete at the 37th Annual Ruffatto Business Startup Challenge 4/17
The Ruffatto Startup Challenge – sponsored by Ontra Marketing Group, Bill and Cheryl Papesh and the Folley Family Foundation – provides a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their business ideas. Students compete for $50,000 in prize money, which reflects the strong support of businesses, organizations and individuals dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship across the state.
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Missoula’s Pangea Restaurant Group Halts Operations and Withholds Wages
Pangea Restaurant Group announced a temporary closure and inability to pay workers’ last wages, signaling financial distress. The lack of details on the closure’s duration and future plans raises concerns about the group’s stability and impact on the local hospitality sector.
Please Help Shape the Strategy for the Future of Education & Workforce in Montana
I invite you to review the draft plan and submit comments during the public comment period, which is open now through 5:00 p.m. on April 27, 2026.
Dr. Jeremiah Shinn Named University of Montana’s 20th President
“I am honored to be named the 20th president of the University of Montana and eager to get started,” said Shinn. “I am inspired by the remarkable students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members who make UM so special, and I look forward to joining this extraordinary team to build on its strong foundation and shape a bright future together.”
High Plains Financial
“High Plains Financial (HPF) is a Montana-based Certified Development Company and SBA 504 lender affiliated with the Great Falls Development Alliance (GFDA). HPF provides SBA 504 loans statewide, helping businesses access long-term, fixed-rate financing for…
Oregon Man Challenges Yellowstone National Park Rules as Unconstitutional Overreach
While Montana is not directly involved, this case could resonate with businesses and land users in the region, where federal management and local economic interests often intersect. The outcome might influence how constitutional challenges to federal land regulations are approached in nearby states with significant public lands, including Montana.
Whitefish Revises Growth Policy Amid Legal Height Limit Concerns
The city council removed building height restrictions after State Senator Ellie Boldman highlighted conflicts with state law. This change reflects the challenge of balancing local planning goals with Montana’s housing legislation.
Bozeman ranked as nation’s best college town for third consecutive year as enrollment grows
Wellness played a big role for many Gen Z students and pointed to Bozeman’s setting in the Rocky Mountains, access to Yellowstone National Park and strong air quality as reasons the city stood out.
Great Falls Development Alliance
“Anything Business – Think GFDA. The Great Falls trade area offers a strategic location, competitive operating costs, and strong industry advantages in food and agriculture, value-added processing, bioprocessing, energy, and advanced support services. As the…
PowerShelter – E-Bike Battery Charging Lockers
The safe charging infrastructure that protects property owners and keeps electric cycle delivery fleets running 24/7
New Amtrak trains coming soon to Pacific Northwest
“We considered what we could do, but I think it’s really important to make sure that the trainset is really fit and ready for service, and that the crews are ready to operate it,” Mason said. “That’s why we are recognizing that it’s not going to be here for the World Cup.”
Blue & Gold News from Montana State University President Tessman
I am so excited about the future of Montana State University and look forward to working with all of you in the months and years ahead. Thank you for all you bring to our university, state and world.
Registration Now Open for Montana Department of Commerce Governor’s Conference on Tourism – 9/16-18 – Great Falls
These sessions provide hands-on learning designed to show you exactly what our landscapes need to thrive. You’ll step directly into the heart of Montana’s rural communities to see the challenges and triumphs of hospitality firsthand.
Great Falls Development Alliance
“Anything Business – Think GFDA. The Great Falls trade area offers a strategic location, competitive operating costs, and strong industry advantages in food and agriculture, value-added processing, bioprocessing, energy, and advanced support services. As the…
Great Falls Development Alliance First Quarter 2026 Index – Numbers to Celebrate
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.
Your Networking Efforts and Why You Should Compound Relationships, Not Just Contacts
Why your network should deepen, not just widen.
Massive 5,600-Worker Man Camp Proposed For Cheyenne, Wyoming’s South Side
Iron Guard Housing plans a large modular camp to house thousands of workers for major projects, raising concerns about crime and infrastructure. Local officials weigh the benefits of centralized housing against community impact as public hearings approach.
Microsoft will triple its data center footprint in Cheyenne, Wyoming with a 3,200-acre land purchase.
The expansion raises important questions about infrastructure, resource management, and community impact that Montana businesses will want to watch closely.
University of Montana College of Business
Make Your Future in the College of Business The College of Business at the University of Montana is a special place focused on making students feel engaged, supported and connected. Students receive access to opportunities…
$970,000 in Big Sky Film Grant Funding Awarded to 22 Filmed-in-Montana Productions
Roughly 124 applicants requested over $13 million in grants this year.
Missoula community leaders looking for all stakeholders to come together in uncertain times – City Club Missoula
“So there is evidence of volatility at the federal level all the time, but only some of it actually affects us, and at the state level. I want to touch on a couple of these things and then give some examples of how we are working to be stable. And when I say stable, I mean, doing what needs to be done when it needs to be done,” Missoula County Commissioner Josh Slotnick said.
GFDA Upcoming Business Trainings and Events
Whether you’re just getting started, looking for new customers, wanting to grow sales through e-commerce, or focusing on workforce. We can help in your success!
University of Montana College of Business
Make Your Future in the College of Business The College of Business at the University of Montana is a special place focused on making students feel engaged, supported and connected. Students receive access to opportunities…
Montana’s population is projected to grow and get grayer over the next 15 years
Key trends include an aging population, a decline in children under 18, and high-income earners moving to western mountain regions.
Prospera Business Network
Prospera Business Network is the lead non-profit organization advancing and supporting community-centered economic development in southwest Montana. Our focus is helping people start and grow their business – in turn strengthening our region’s economy and…
GFDA Top Top for 4-12-26
The Montana National Guard officially christened the newly designated Drop Zone near Power, Montana, showcasing a full demonstration for local and state leaders and marking the first operational drop on the site.
SOLD OUT!!!!! City Club Missoula Presents: State of the Community – Monday, April 13th 2026
Panelists:
Andrea Davis, City of Missoula Mayor
Josh Slotnick, Missoula County Commissioner
Dr. Leslie Webb, UM Vice President of Affairs & Enrollment Management