Montana Economic Development

The $2 million CDFI financial assistance award will go directly into MCDC’s loan fund which is used to loan money to those who may not qualify for a traditional business loan but have a viable business that will provide income for themselves and job opportunities in their communities.

"This Quick Start award will save money and create and retain jobs," said Governor Brian Schweitzer.

Gov. Brian Schweitzer is bullish on biomass and that’s a good thing.

The Governor says his office is working to make the state as transparent as possible when it comes to using federal stimulus funds

The minimum grant amount is $20,000, and the maximum is the whole pot. The deadline to apply is Aug. 3, and the required match is half the grant amount requested — in hard dollars only, not in-kind contributions.

The funds, which are available to both large companies and mom-and-pop operations, are part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

"Montana is offering filmmakers something other states don’t – a solid cash incentive, backed up with a host of extra incentives that save productions significant money and make film shoots more enjoyable," said Governor Schweitzer.

“This year’s TIIP grants will join with the job stimulus money already at work around Montana to create and sustain jobs. These grants are a resource to help our community tourism attractions be bigger, better and more successful,” said Governor Brian Schweitzer.

“Montana businesses now have access to good resources thanks to Jon’s workshop and this new website,” said Webb Brown, President of the Montana Chamber of Commerce. “There’s a lot of opportunities out there thanks to the Recovery Act. Now I encourage businesses and contractors to follow through, be prepared and do their homework so they can compete, win and go to work.”

A diverse group is once again discussing building a center in northcentral Montana to host events ranging from major athletic tournaments to conventions, conferences and concerts.