Strategic Partners:

Sponsors Advancing Leadership Excellence in Economic Development

Strategic Partners:

Sponsors Advancing Excellence in Economic Development

Host Committee

The Great Fall Development Alliance (GFDA) is a regional public/private Economic Development Organization (EDO) which focuses its efforts on the Great Falls Montana trade area. Our region includes the Great Falls Montana MSA (Cascade County) and a vast rural/tribal region that extends over 13 counties and 44,000 square miles. We are a private sector driven organization supported by over 120 local businesses and community organizations. We are an entrepreneurial organization that generates over 86% of our revenue. We are formed as a Montana non-profit corporation with 501(c)3 status from the IRS. We are a 509(c)(2). Our Computation of Public Support Percentage for our most recent fiscal year was 99.6% As of now we have 20 staff and three open positions: one accounting admin and two business development officers. 

As a CDFI (Community Development Financial Institution), GFDA provides gap and bridge financing focused on the Great Falls trade area. In addition to lending, our core operations include business development (business retention/expansion and business attraction) and business advising and training. Our lending and development services are focused in the economically distressed areas and people of our region, leveraging our capital to generate the greatest possible economic and quality of life impact. Our gap and bridge financing provides access to capital that conventional lenders cannot or will not provide. We partner with banks and credit unions to finance entrepreneurial startups, business expansion, real estate and housing development, and nonprofit community services. Our business development work assists a wide variety of businesses, developers, non-profits, and public agencies with concierge services customized to help make things happen that otherwise would not. We also work on efforts to make our trade area more competitive in attracting investment, entrepreneurs, and workforce talent; and to improve quality of life. Our business advising and training services help entrepreneurs to start new ventures and help existing businesses to thrive and grow. GFDA is a proud to be an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) through the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

Chairman’s

Amazon’s Economic Development team supports worldwide expansion by building relationships with economic development organizations, policymakers, permitting agencies, and community stakeholders. We directly support Amazon’s investments and we help integrate our businesses into the communities in which they locate. Our engagement is not transactional. We build long-term, collaborative partnerships with economic development organizations to advance job creation and economic growth.

DCI is “The Leader in Marketing Places." Since 1960, we have worked with more than 500 cities, regions, states, provinces and countries, helping them to attract investors, visitors, and talent. We specialize exclusively in three areas of place marketing: economic development, talent attraction and tourism including websites, branding, public relations, social/digital media, research, prospect development, travel trade, and special events. Current clients include a range of states (Michigan, Florida, North Dakota, Vermont, Missouri, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey), cities/regions (Charleston, Chattanooga, Cincinnati, Columbus, Houston, Research Triangle Region, and Jacksonville) and countries (Netherlands, Switzerland, Costa Rica and Georgia), to name a few. With a team of more than 60 place marketers, DCI is headquartered in New York City, with offices in Denver, Los Angeles and Toronto.

Placer.ai is the leader in location analytics, instantly generating foot traffic insights for any location in the U.S. Commercial real estate, retail, and economic development professionals are using the product daily to optimize their decision-making. Placer.ai provides a range of easily accessible reports on-demand including true trade areas, visit trends, customer journey data, demographics, cross-shopping, property rankings and more. The breadth of perspectives empowers local governments to understand consumer behavior, attract the best-fit business and enhance local business performance to drive economic growth.

ResearchFDI Academy is an online platform designed to help economic development professionals enhance their expertise in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). With flexible, self-paced modules, you can learn anytime, anywhere. The Academy offers expert-led content, real-world examples, and actionable insights into the FDI process, from lead generation to investor aftercare. Tailored for those in investment attraction, stakeholder engagement, and economic development, the Foreign Direct Investment Professional (FDIP) Certification provides a recognized credential to advance your career. Elevate your skills and confidence to attract and sustain investments and help your region thrive.

Official Lodging Partner

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 5 million hosts who have welcomed over 1.5 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

Innovation Sponsor

ACT workforce solutions strengthen job readiness and skills development for individuals, businesses, government, professional associations, and education institutions in the United States and internationally. Our comprehensive training, assessments, and credential offerings have helped more than 5 million individuals and 28,000+ employers find success.

CoBank is one of the largest private providers of credit to the U.S. rural economy. We are a national cooperative bank, a proud member of the Farm Credit System with a mission to serve vital industries that are the backbone of rural America including agribusiness, power, water and telecommunications.

Great Falls, Montana is an Air Force community, protecting the free world, rooted in history and grounded in hard work. It’s a basecamp to outdoor recreation across a diverse landscape of mountains, rivers, production agriculture, buttes, and bluffs. Great Falls is creative, with world-class museums, historical sites, sculpture lined trails, and murals throughout downtown. Explore the land of the plains Indians, where Lewis & Clark trod, in Charlie Russell’s backyard by fishing, hiking, kayaking, or going to his actual backyard, the C.M. Russell Museum Complex. Experience honest hospitality while dining outdoors, take in a game:  professional, college, or your own, and share a smile with our resident mermaids at the world-famous Sip ‘n Dip Lounge. We’ll see ya soon, when you Visit Great Falls, Montana

Presenting Exhibitor

CivicServe is the only purpose built Program and Project Management Software designed to support all economic development strategies such as incentive programs, BRE and other economic development activities. The platform has been built to support complex economic development workflows, digitize state and federal economic development reporting requirements, and automate compliance with redevelopment agreement obligations.

Supporting Sponsors

The Center on Rural Innovation (CORI) believes in the potential of rural communities, and that rural people should have the same access to opportunities in the tech economy. As a national nonprofit, CORI uses data-driven research, partnerships, programming, and investment to support and connect rural leaders as they build inclusive tech ecosystems in rural America. CORI’s Rural Innovation Network offers rural leaders access to a first-of-its kind community of practice where they can collaborate with peers across the country to advance their tech economies, connect to national funders and investors, and leverage curated solutions to build a resilient economic future for their communities. And through original research and storytelling, CORI is shifting the narrative about what is possible in small towns across the United States. 
Great Falls, Montana, known as "The Electric City," is nestled along the Missouri River and is distinguished by its five waterfalls and historic hydroelectric dams. With a population of approximately 60,000, it serves as a central hub between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. The city boasts a rich cultural scene, highlighted by the C.M. Russell Museum, honoring the famed Western artist, and the Paris Gibson Square Museum of Art. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the 53-mile River's Edge Trail, Giant Springs State Park, and the nearby Rocky Mountain Front. Great Falls also hosts Western Art Week, attracting artists and collectors nationwide. Its blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities makes Great Falls a unique and inviting destination.
Cheyenne LEADS is a private, not-for-profit corporation serving as the economic development entity for the City of Cheyenne and Laramie County, Wyoming. LEADS is funded by small businesses, larger corporations, and individual dues-paying members. Cheyenne LEADS holds contracts with the City of Cheyenne and Laramie County to provide comprehensive economic development services.
 
These services include, but are not limited to, business recruitment, working with businesses on retention and expansion projects, and fostering a supportive business environment. LEADS prides itself on being the link between the community and site selectors, as well as businesses looking to relocate to Cheyenne and Laramie County.
 
In addition to these services, Cheyenne LEADS owns the Cheyenne Business Parkway, a 900-acre business park, and the 740-acre North Range Business Park. Both parks are shovel-ready and offer immediate access to I-80. LEADS also manages two other large business parks, ensuring a variety of options for incoming businesses.

The Montana Department of Commerce works with local and statewide partners to support economic growth across Montana. By offering grants, loans and technical assistance, Commerce promotes economic opportunities and administers quality, affordable housing programs. Commerce also aids business development, tourism promotion and public infrastructure planning and improvements. Commerce is dedicated to assisting Montana’s businesses and communities, helping them thrive and build a prosperous future for the entire state

The Montana Economic Developers Association (MEDA) is proud to sponsor this event in support of collaboration and economic progress across the nation. MEDA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that connects economic developers with partners in business, industry, finance, and government to strengthen Montana’s economy. Our story began in 1988 with the formation of the Montana Economic Development Network. As collaboration grew, the group evolved, becoming the Montana Economic Development Coalition in 1991, then the Professional Economic Developers Association of Montana in 1992, and finally the Montana Economic Developers Association in 1993. For over 30 years, MEDA has brought together professionals who are passionate about building stronger communities. We’re committed to supporting economic development through partnerships, knowledge sharing, and statewide coordination.We’re honored to be part of this important event.

The Montana University System consists of 16 public colleges and universities spanning 147,000 square miles, and includes leading public research and doctoral-level institutions and comprehensive 4-year and 2-year colleges and universities. Learn more by visiting our website.

Network Kansas, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, is dedicated to making entrepreneurship a priority for economic and community development in the State of Kansas. Network Kansas connects aspiring entrepreneurs, emerging and established businesses to a deep network of business-building and community development resource organizations across the state.

Network Kansas serves the state’s small business capital access needs through both traditional loan and financial equity programs.  In addition, Network Kansas facilitates the development of an entrepreneurial ecosystem within participating communities through the eCommunity Partnership. Contributing factors to successful development include the availability of financial capital, support by local leadership, and development of educational resources. All of these factors combine to increase entrepreneurial activity in participating communities, leading to increased startup activity, business expansion, job creation, and more.

NorthWestern Energy provides essential energy infrastructure and valuable services that enrich lives and empower communities while serving as long-term partners to our customers and communities. We work to deliver safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions that create value for customers, communities, employees, and investors. We do this by providing low-cost and reliable service performed by highly-adaptable and skilled employees. We provide electricity and / or natural gas to approximately 787,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Yellowstone National Park. We have provided service in South Dakota and Nebraska since 1923 and in Montana since 2002.

Founded in 1978, RCAC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that partners with underserved rural and Indigenous communities to achieve their vision and well being through technical assistance, training, financial resources and advocacy. For more than 45 years, our dedicated staff and active board, coupled with our key values: leadership, collaboration, commitment, quality and integrity, have helped effect positive change in rural communities across the West. Our vision is that rural and Indigenous communities throughout the West are empowered to be vibrant, healthy and thriving.

Community Sponsor

LinkED Visions is an economic development consulting firm led by Theresa Metcalf, specializing in supporting communities with limited capacity through strategic, high-impact solutions. Specializing in building capacity for small teams, Theresa delivers customized support in business retention and expansion, workforce development, stakeholder alignment and event strategy. Her work includes designing and implementing high-impact initiatives such as FAM tours, workforce summits, industry roundtables, and site selector engagements. From grant program development to strategic planning, Theresa equips communities with the tools to strengthen local economies and create long-term impact. With a practical, hands-on approach and deep understanding of rural challenges, LinkED Visions helps communities move from concept to execution—turning limited resources into meaningful results.

Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (TouroCOM) opened its Great Falls, Montana campus in 2023, marking the state's first nonprofit medical school. The 100,000-square-foot facility offers a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) program and a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Sciences, focusing on training physicians to serve rural and underserved communities.

TouroCOM's presence has significantly bolstered Great Falls' economic landscape. A study by the University of Montana's Bureau of Business and Economic Research projected that, in its fourth year of operation, the medical school would support over 360 jobs and generate approximately $74 million in annual economic output . The influx of students, faculty, and staff has stimulated local businesses, housing markets, and healthcare services. TouroCOM's acquired the Weissman Hood Institute which will enhance clinical education and research opportunities in the region.

In essence, TouroCOM's Great Falls campus not only enriches medical education but also serves as a catalyst for economic growth and improved healthcare access in Montana.

Spotlight Exhibitor

Chmura Economics & Analytics is an applied economic consulting firm specializing in delivering advanced economic analysis. Data are at the heart of Chmura. As individuals, organizations, and communities, we rely on accurate, timely data to help make critical decisions and plan for growth and improvement. The team at Chmura is dedicated to developing tools and services with that need in mind. Whether developed through customized consulting projects, delivered via off-the-shelf reports, or compiled through our software tools such as JobsEQ®, our data help you answer complex questions and implement effective solutions. Chmura has the experience and expertise to transform data into information that drives effective strategy. 

Exhibitors

Big Sky Economic Development (BSED) is a public-private partnership. The Big Sky Economic Development Authority (EDA), the public agency, evolved from the Montana TradePort Authority launched in 1989 by the Yellowstone County Board of Commissioners. Big Sky Economic Development Corporation (EDC), the private business side, was started in 2002. Over 160-plus of the county’s top businesses are member-investor partners in the EDC. Together, the organization’s mission is to sustain and grow Yellowstone County’s vibrant economy and outstanding quality of life, by providing leadership and resources for business creation, expansion, retention, new business recruitment and community development.

Economic Impact Catalyst works with economic development organizations across the United States to build the infrastructure that accelerates entrepreneurship, facilitates small business assistance, and measures the impact of entrepreneurship-led economic development. In addition to our technology-enabled platform, Startup Space, we provide data and surveys for our clients to understand their impact and drive policy.

The Employee Ownership Expansion Network (EOX) is a national nonprofit organization focused on significantly expanding employee ownership across the United States by establishing and supporting a network of independent nonprofit State Centers for Employee Ownership. We see employee ownership as a critical tool to help reduce income and wealth disparity, increase community wealth, and create a more vibrant, participatory economy for workers regardless of race, religion, or socioeconomic status. Our free unbiased programming on succession planning using ESOPs, worker cooperatives, and employee ownership trusts is best delivered to organizations like chambers of commerce, economic development regions, community groups, and trade associations. Stop by our booth to see how we can be a resource for you to keep businesses from shutting down or leaving your region.

HatchForm is a consulting firm that provides action planning, program design, and project management services exclusively to organizations engaged in economic development. We are focused on delivering real, actionable solutions, not just plans, that drive tangible impact in the communities we serve. Through our services like strategy sprints and our action planning community of practice, HatchForm turns planning into action and provides capacity for catalytic programs. 

Media Partners

Your destination for premium location intelligence.
 
Make informed decisions, attract corporate investment and stay competitive in the world of foreign and domestic direct investment. Our economic development data products and consulting services can help your organisation make better strategic decisions for long-term success.
 
Trust insight over instinct.
Decisions driven by intelligence.
Montana Public Radio serves as the essential and trusted source for local news, information, and cultural programs that reflect our unique state. We represent Montana's distinctive character while expanding our community of informed, engaged citizens through diverse voices and thoughtful journalism. For local businesses and non-profits, we offer exceptional marketing opportunities through sponsorship of MTPR that deliver high ROI—research shows our listeners support sponsors at rates 2-3 times higher than commercial advertising due to our trusted relationship with audiences. We create listener lead live programming for people of all ages that sparks curiosity and connects Montanans to each other and the world. From authentic moments of beauty to celebrating arts and cultural traditions, Montana Public Radio embodies the spirit of our remarkable state.
 

Session Sponsor

FDI Center is a specialized advisory firm in the field of foreign direct investment. They are entirely focused on helping governments and investment promotion agencies (IPAs) to attract investment. FDI Center works with countries, regions, cities, special economic zones and industrial parks from around the world to develop and implement successful strategies and approaches for attracting and retaining investment. They know how intensely locations compete to attract investment and understand what makes a location attractive for investors and the important role that investment promotion agencies play in this competitive environment.

FDI Center focus on the practical aspects of investment attraction that directly impact their clients’ day-to-day activities and performance. Their support addresses the most important activities of investment promotion and helps their clients to attract investment more efficiently and successfully.