Sara visited a Native woman-owned meat processing business, C+C Meat Processing in Babb. Owner Christina Flammond provides vital services to local ranchers and hunters, and serves as a teacher and cultural knowledge keeper. She is one example of an outstanding female entrepreneur who is making a difference in the community and local economy. If you know an exceptional female business owner who deserves recognition, nominate them for a GFDA Fire Within award by March 31! Reach out to [email protected] or call 1-406-590-1301 to learn more about our celebration of female entrepreneurs.

1) Congratulations to Benefis Health System on their new Cardiovascular Clinic. The remodeled space allows the Benefis’ Heart and Vascular Institute to serve more patients and meet growing demand. This investment strengthens access to care for residents, supports high skill healthcare jobs, and reinforces Great Falls as a medical hub. This expansion is a positive step for both our community and our regional economy!

 

2) APEX Accelerators from Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Arizona, and Colorado, along with businesses from across those states and Montana, joined the Great Falls Regional APEX for a multi-state webinar on Understanding Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) in Federal Contracting. Participants learned that if a foreign company or individual has the ability to influence business decisions or gain access to sensitive information, that relationship may need to be disclosed. In some cases, even routine business arrangements such as renting or leasing equipment from a foreign-owned entity can trigger reporting requirements. This presentation provided a clear understanding of what qualifies as FOCI and how to identify and address potential concerns before pursuing federal contracting opportunities. To learn more, contact Shannon Clancy at [email protected] or 1-406-590-1184.

3) Buffalo Noir wine bar opened in West Bank Landing, the 19th business in the Great Falls riverfront redevelopment! See KRTV. Panera Bread opened in Great falls on 10th Avenue South, see KRTV. Rocky Mountain Kartel, a new streetwear and lifestyle boutique, opened in Great Falls; Wingstop plans to open a restaurant in the Great Falls Marketplace and Haunted Scoops plans to open in Great Falls see more info about these and other local business news in TheElectric’s Business Bites. There is a new Indian and Nepali restaurant, Annapurna Indian Restaurant, coming soon to Great Falls! The official opening date has not been announced, but you can follow them on Facebook for updates. The Prairie Peddler has re-opened in Shelby; see Shelby Promoter.

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