Universities and Economic Development

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Montana State University Celebrates Aurora Innovation Campus Opening

The Aurora facility will primarily focus on the research and development of LiDAR technology—a sophisticated system employing laser radar to determine the distance and velocity of objects surrounding a vehicle. This advancement stands to significantly advance autonomous vehicle tech, with potential applications stretching far beyond just automotive purposes.

Efforts to build ‘Innovation Campus’ in Missoula still alive

Back in 2018, the University of Montana met with city and county leaders to discuss a technology corridor within Missoula. At the time, UM described the vision as a “hub of research in two areas of strength at UM – biotech and ecology – with space devoted to businesses working in those fields.”

Pitch Perfect: UM Professional Sales Course Equips Students With Real-World Skills

“No matter what discipline you are in, if you want to move into leadership eventually you are probably going to have to do some business development and sales,” Anzollitto said.

UM Business Class Pairs Data Analytics With Beer

Each fall semester, Chandler breaks his class into groups who work to answer different questions using the sales data. The analysis helped the Dram Shop track their business through the COVID-19 pandemic, develop the Dram Fam customer club and make price changes.

Higher Ed Changes Loom Under a Second Trump Administration

Trump has vowed to eliminate the Department of Education in his second term. Even if he stops short, the administration will bring policy changes to colleges and universities and new scrutiny to diversity, equity and inclusion policies.

Montana apprenticeship program sets new enrollee record

The report, released during National Apprenticeship Week, found that 770 apprenticeships began in the first nine months of 2024. More than 680 businesses were offering apprenticeships to train workers, helping businesses fill jobs and overcome workforce shortages.

Blue & Gold News from President Cruzado – Montana State University

Finally, as Thanksgiving approaches, I find my heart so full of gratitude for our Bobcat community. We have had an extraordinary year because of our dedicated and talented students, faculty, staff, alumni, friends and neighbors. As you gather with loved ones next week, please know your university is grateful for your support and friendship.

Celebrate the University of Montana’s Soaring Spirit – President Seth Bodner

As we enter this season of reflection and generosity, I invite you to celebrate the remarkable strides UM has made this year. Below, I highlight a few exciting developments, and I encourage you to explore our news hub for the full scope of our achievements.

Montana University System sets new research record, ranks 5th in U.S. for research growth – the Headwaters Tech Hub

$45.9 million for Montana including $41.3 million from the federal government — is intended to catalyze work that’s already taking place in an area, such as optics and photonics in Montana, VanReken said. Twenty-seven partners from the public and private sectors are involved in the project, including economic and workforce development teams.

The $41.3 million for Montana comes from the CHIPS and Science Act outgoing U.S. Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, supported in 2022. VanReken said the goal is to drive a $10 billion economic impact in the state at the end of a decade with the investment.

$11M University of Montana Research Center Targets Improving Health for All Montanans

Ward said the center initially will fund up to five research projects a year, incubating them with the goal of securing larger funding in the future.

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We will bring the North Coast Hiawatha train route back to Southern Montana

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Montana Technology Innovation Partnership (MTIP)- Promoting Technology Commercialization in the State of Montana.

Big Sky Commerce is an integrated provider of merchant credit card transaction processing services, check processing services, Internet payment gateways, related software application products and value-added services.

SBA 504 Loans offered statewide! Real estate and equipment, acquisitions, renovation, and new construction. Low, fixed-rates up to 25 years with as little as 10% down.