Join us for a powerful event that showcases the remarkable initiatives and innovations that are happening in the community. This gathering is designed to showcase 5 individuals from diverse backgrounds and the projects/companies/initiatives they are leading. The Ignite Luncheon is not just an opportunity to witness inspiring projects unfolding in our midst but also a chance to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact. Engage in meaningful conversations, network with fellow community members, and leave inspired by the collective efforts driving innovation and change in our community.

PROSPERA ANNOUNCES BUSINESS IGNITE LUNCHEON SPEAKERS

Bozeman, MT – Prospera is excited to announce the speaker line up for this year’s Business Ignite Luncheon. The Business Ignite Luncheon has become a signature event for Prospera showcasing the remarkable initiatives and innovations that are happening in the community.  This gathering is designed to showcase 5 individuals from diverse backgrounds and the projects/companies/initiatives they are leading.

The 2024 speakers include:

• Laura Sebulsky, Charlie Health

Laura Sebulsky is an experienced business leader. Laura joined Charlie Health at its inception and helped to launch and grow the program into 30 states. It is now the most extensive virtual high-acuity behavioral health program in the US. Today, she serves as the Head of Engagement and Partnerships at Charlie Health. In this role, Laura uses innovation to connect patients to life-saving mental health programming nationwide.  Previously, she trained US Special Forces in tribal warfare negotiation tactics, demonstrating her strategic acumen and diplomacy. Laura holds advanced degrees in persuasion and negotiation from the University of Pennsylvania, complemented by Ayurvedic Medicine and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction certifications. As an advisor for the Women in Leadership program at the University of North Dakota, she empowers young professionals to cultivate resilience and confidence.

• Nate Powell-Palm, Cold Springs Organics

Nate Powell-Palm, at 32, is a trailblazing force in agriculture, embodying innovation and community stewardship. As a first-generation producer, he’s revolutionized organic farming, mastering a seven-year crop rotation. Nate’s journey began at 9, showing steers at county fairs, later securing a Junior Agriculture Loan for his first livestock. Transitioning to certified organic at 17, he’s since diversified crops, establishing markets with major companies like Annie’s. Nate’s foresight led to Bozeman Flour, a venture set to transform local grain processing. His ethos? Empower communities through sustainable, local food economies. Nate Powell-Palm: farmer, entrepreneur, and advocate for a thriving future.

• Joe Borden, Hoary Marmot

Formerly Head Writer and Co-executive Producer of Comedy Central’s TOSH.0, Joe has spent over 20 years working in just about every sector of TV, film, & commercials. His credits include THE OFFICE, BORAT, JIMMY KIMMEL, and SHOWBIZ SHOW WITH DAVID SPADE. He’s currently overseeing independent projects in Montana like feature films SOMEWHERE IN MONTANA (2024) and CUISINE DE LA ‘POCALYPSE (2024) as well as hosting a local podcast called Explore Big Sky with Hoary Marmot alongside his wife Michelle Veale Borden.

• Andy Wirth, Peak Skis

Andy Wirth, a seasoned executive with a global footprint, excels in crafting success stories that elevate shareholder value and brand prominence. With a knack for steering high-performance teams, Andrew’s journey encompasses strategic business planning, mergers, and acquisitions. Beyond boardrooms, Andrew passionately leads civic and not-for-profit initiatives, notably as Chairman of the Reno Tahoe Airport Authority Board. Currently, as Co-Founder & CEO of M Bar W Inc. & Peak Ski Company, LLC, and Executive Vice President in risk assessment, he continues to shape a legacy marked by visionary leadership and impactful alliances. An avid adventurer, Andrew’s interests span from high-altitude alpinism to surfing, embodying his dynamic spirit.

• Mark Schallenberger, Xtant Medical
  Mark has deep experience in orthobiologics. Prior to joining Xtant Medical, Mark served as Chief Operations Officer of Surgenex LLC, a medical technology manufacturer, from June 2019 to January 2023. Prior to Surgenex, Mark served as Senior Director of Marketing & Product Development of DCI Donor Services Tissue Bank, a tissue bank, from February 2016 to June 2019. Prior to DCI Donor Services Tissue Bank, Mark served in various roles with increasing responsibility from September 2010 to February 2016 culminating with Director of Scientific Affairs with Xtant Medical Holdings, Inc. formerly Bacterin International Holdings, Inc. Mark holds a Master of Science in Chemical Biology from The Scripps Research Institute and a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Montana.

The Business Ignite Luncheon is not just an opportunity to witness inspiring projects unfolding in our midst but also a chance to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a positive impact. Engage in meaningful conversations, network with fellow community members, and leave inspired by the collective efforts driving innovation and change in our community. Purchase tickets online at proseramt.org.

About Prospera: Prospera helps businesses and communities find their pathway to success, acting as the navigator, problem solver, and catalyst for a string Montana economy. Prospera is home to the Montana Women’s Business Center, Food and Agriculture Development Center, Small Business Development Center and Prospera Loan Program.  For nearly 40 years, our focus is helping people start and grow their local business – which in turn strengthens our region’s economy and communities. Prospera is dedicated to accelerating business through our no-cost business counseling, business training, grant assistance, business networking, and business loans.

For more information, please call 406.587.3113 or visit prosperamt.org.

865 Technology Blvd, Suite A, Bozeman, MT 59718