Montana MATR SUPPORTERS
GFDA Quarter Index 2026Q2 Numbers to Celebrate
Our Mission
Grow diverse economic opportunities that enhance quality of life.
GFDA is a certified Community Development Financial Institution and a 501(c)3 charitable organization. High Plains Financial is a certified Community Development Corporation that offers SBA 504 loans statewide. GFDA and High Plains Financial are Equal Opportunity Employers, Lenders and Providers.
Montana Sees Surge of Young Adults Moving to the State for Jobs
Young adults aged 18 to 24 are leading in-migration to Montana, driven by strong economic growth and expanding job opportunities in areas like Great Falls. This influx could reshape local labor markets, though challenges remain with many youth still disengaged from work or education.
Mexico is building a modern high-speed passenger train network
The Mexican government has reversed a long downward trend by pushing new passenger rail projects. Recent efforts include restoring government control and launching key lines like the Tren Maya, signaling a major shift in transport policy.
GFDA Top Ten for 7/26/26
Registrations are pouring in for our September 10-11 developer tour of opportunities for new projects in Great Falls in conjunction with the Urban land Institute. This event is focused on developers interested in the Great Falls market for housing and commercial development. We will tour available sites, meet the local building and permitting staff, visit demand drivers in the market, and more! If you have a potential project that you would like represented reach out to Jake at [email protected] or 1-406-403-4937.
University of Montana’s College of Business Helps Grow Northwest Montana’s Entertainment Economy to a Near $300 Million Impact
The University of Montana’s expanded Entertainment, Events and Sports Management major is doubling enrollment and aligning workforce training with the region’s booming entertainment sector. Local venues and year-round live music are key drivers of this economic growth.
Startup World Cup – 10/21 – University of Montana – Missoula
Startup World Cup is a series of global startup conferences and competitions, powered by Pegasus Tech Ventures. It consists of 100+ regional startup competitions in more than 20 different countries around the world, leading up to the Grand Finale in Silicon Valley. The top startups from each regional event will fly out to the USA to compete for a $1,000,000 prize. The Grand Finale for Startup World Cup 2026 will be held on October 17 in San Francisco, California at the Hilton Union Square.
University of Montana Launches Workshop and Coworking Space in Downtown Missoula to Boost Startups
The VBX Entrepreneurship Workshop Series offers mentorship and practical training to local entrepreneurs. A new downtown coworking space provides a hub for startups to collaborate and grow.
Current Opportunities To Join Our Award-Winning Team at GFDA in Great Falls, Montana
Government Contracting Advisor–APEX Accelerator Are you driven, curious, and ready to make a real impact? Do you bring both analytical thinking and strong relationship skills—able to break down complex problems while building trust with business…
GFDA Top Ten for 7/19/26
GFDA has some great Career Opportunities! https://growgreatfallsmontana.org/about/team/careers/
Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority and PNWER to Host 2026 Greater Northwest Rail Summit in Helena
Transportation, business, government, Tribal, and community leaders from across the United States and Canada will gather in Helena August 25–27 for the 2026 Greater Northwest Rail Summit. Registration is now open.











