MEDA -Montana Economic Developers Association

Biden administration to unveil contractor rule that could upend gig economy

The U.S. Department of Labor rule, which was first proposed in 2022 and is likely to face legal challenges, will require that workers be considered employees entitled to more benefits and legal protections than contractors when they are “economically dependent” on a company.

What would it take for generosity to go viral?

“Be brave. Give what you can, and then be absolutely amazed at what happens next,”

Montana communities selected to participate in MSU Extension’s Reimagining Rural Program

The Reimagining Rural virtual gathering includes three statewide sessions on Jan. 29, Feb. 12 and Feb. 26. Those sessions are broadcast via Zoom to groups gathered in person in participating towns. Following each session’s speakers, local groups hold facilitated conversations about how new ideas might work in their communities.

Montana business leaders express concerns over proposed federal rule

The National Labor Relations Board is preparing to implement a new “joint employer rule.” It says companies that can exert control over the terms and conditions of someone’s employment – like wages, schedule, hiring and working conditions – has to be involved in collective bargaining for that employee, even if the control is indirect and even if it isn’t actually exerted.

Baby boomers back in business: Retirees returning to workforce

“Good attitudes. Treat customers good. Don’t mind going out of their way,” is how company 62-year-old owner Helen Hatten describes what she looks for in an employee. “A lot of Baby Boomers have those traits.”

Why Cities Are Turning to Climate Change Dashboards

As the world gets hotter, technology offers governments a fresh way to track emissions and the progress of officials in meeting climate goals. What benefits do these dashboards offer, and how are cities using them?

More communities support proposed Southern Montana passenger rail plan from Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority

Gathering speed is a new push to expand the way travelers can connect across the state and to major U.S. cities, all through passenger rail.

Montana Main Street Grant Application Now Open

Grants are available for comprehensive revitalization projects and community planning, as well as to activate spaces and execute concrete ideas. Communities with a currently active MMS grant are not eligible for funding.