1) We unveiled the findings of a feasibility study commissioned in partnership with Roseman University of Health Sciences indicating what it would take to successfully launch a school of veterinary medicine in Great Falls. Download a copy of the Feasibility Findings Presentation. As part of GFDA’s economic development strategy, and as a follow up to the 2022 Health and Bioscience Economic Development Strategy also prepared by Tripp Umbach, we are focused on leveraging the medical and educational assets within our community. Read more in The Electric and on KRTV.

2) German manufacturer VACOM announced that it plans to open its first U.S. plant in Lewistown. Congratulations to Lewistown and Fergus County leaders and THANK YOU to the Montana Department of Commerce’s new business attraction team and Governor Gianforte that brought this lead to Montana and landed it here! See KRTV and KFBB.

3) Our High Plains Financial affiliate closed an SBA 504 loan in the amount of $147,000 for a Great Falls business that decided they were ready to own the building they have been leasing for decades. Mosch Electric is a family-owned small engine and electric motor repair business that has been servicing the region for close to 60 years. Thanks to the great work of their banker, Nathan Reiff, of First Interstate Bank in Great Falls, Mosch Electric will now get to enjoy 25 years of a low, fixed interest rate and only had to come in with a 10% down payment. If your business is ready to stop leasing and secure a permanent location for your business, please contact Jill Kohles at 1-406-590-1056 or [email protected]. SBA 504 loan rates dropped almost a half percent in December!

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