Montana Economic Development

“In an area where rural residents and most tourists, on average have to travel 50 miles to see a doctor or up to 300 miles to see a specialist, facilities such as the Madison Valley hospital are vital.”

Employment growth does not reflect the quality of the jobs created. There is concern that, as Montana’s economy grows, the jobs that are being added are not high quality jobs.

Since its inception, MWTC has undertaken a dual role as consultant and advocate, assisting our member businesses to establish and strengthen international commercial capabilities, while striving to develop untapped international trade opportunities.

More than two years after Gov. Brian Schweitzer touted his plans to jump-start ethanol production in Montana, the state has the same number of ethanol plants it started with: Zero.

“The largest single producer of carbon dioxide in the United States is coal-fired power plants, like the ones at Colstrip,” says University of Montana climate scientist Steve Running, one of the lead authors of the recent International Panel on Climate Change report. “So…from a climate point of view—not taking into account any economics—the best thing you can do is close down coal plants all over the country as soon as possible.”

Joe McClure, the executive director of the Big Sky Economic Development Authority, said the people he met with two weeks ago would say only that they represent a Fortune 500 company and that Billings is one of three Montana cities being considered for a new operation.

"Ashley Martin currently has 20 employees in the Arlee area," said
Governor Brian Schweitzer. "Additional jobs from this expansion will
help strengthen Arlee’s economy and create significant employment
opportunities for several families. I am committed to improving local
economies in every corner of this state."

The funds will help develop more than thirty new and existing programs and enhance training opportunities in the industries of healthcare, construction, information technology, and more.

Do take a minute to read the MEDA Online News for August so that you will be up-to-date on a variety of issues and opportunities.

The conference is focused on improving coordination between local and
state economic development agencies, in an effort to create more
productive relationships and greater economic benefits for Montana
communities.