What: Session exploring how companies of all types can benefit from R&D Tax Credit incentives hosted by Big Sky Economic Development and ADP

When: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2nd

Where: Zoot Training Room, Big Sky Economic Development, 201 N. Broadway, Billings, MT 59101& virtual via Zoom

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Many businesses overlook Research & Development tax credits, assuming they apply only to high-tech or biotech industries. Companies across a wide range of industries may qualify for this $20 billion dollar tax credit yet only 1/3 of eligible companies are taking advantage. Join Big Sky Economic Development and ADP for a member-exclusive session exploring how companies of all types can benefit from R&D Tax Credit incentives. Learn about what the R&D Tax Credit is, why it’s important to your business and how you can take advantage of it today!

Register Here

Guest Speakers:

Ryan Lynch is a District Manager for ADP covering Montana out of Butte He is passionate about helping organizations with everything from basic payroll to comprehensive human capital management and analytics. Ryan lives in Butte and can be found fishing one of Montana’s rivers or lakes and enjoying the lifestyle that makes Montana so attractive.

Mike Auble is a Sales Executive at ADP with a demonstrated track record of leading and developing high-performing teams focused on driving strategic growth and delivering innovative human capital management solutions to clients across various industries. His latest teams are focused on the Research and Development Tax Credit (among others) which significantly impacts businesses by providing financial incentives for innovation. Mike is from Boston and excited to be in Billings to meet with the Big Sky Economic Development membership.

What: FIRST Tech Challenge robotics competition

When: 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 22nd

Where: Montana Tech HPER Center, HPER West Park Street, Butte, MT 59701

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) is designed for students in grades 7-12 to compete head-to-head, using a sports model. Teams are responsible for designing, building, and programming their robots to compete in an alliance format against other teams.

Become a FIRST robotics competition volunteer and celebrate the accomplishments of students in science and technology across Montana. The FIRST Tech Challenge is seeking volunteers for its upcoming one-day tournament in Butte. Some volunteer positions can be split into morning shifts and afternoon shifts. All training for the roles will be provided through online videos or on-site by the Lead Volunteers. No prior robotics experience is necessary. 

Volunteer Here

For more details, please contact Julie Heller at julieh[at]mtroboticsalliance.org. Visit the Montana Robotics Alliance website to learn more about youth robotics in Montana and future volunteer opportunities.

What: Monthly member meeting featuring Rachel Cowan & Bailey Durnell, co-owners of Missoula Makers Collective

When: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 20th

Where: Missoula Makers Collective (Florence Building), 112 W. Front St., Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Hellgate Venture Network facilitates social networking among entrepreneurs and advisors engaged in building growth businesses in Western Montana.

The Missoula Makers Collective was founded in late 2021 with the purpose of creating community spaces for makers. Since its first market, the Missoula Makers Collective has hosted nearly a hundred handmade markets, pop-ups, and shopping events.

Learn More

What: Leadership development webinar, hosted by Associated Employers

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19th

Where: Virtual (Link to participate will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Take your leadership skills to the next level through this engaging webinar. You’ll learn key leadership aspects like:

• How to put people first 

• Honesty with staff 

• Building trust with staff 

• Transitioning from peer to supervisor 

• The art of delegation

Cost per webinar:

• AE Members - $125 

• Prospective Members - $155

The price is for one (1) login. Additional logins are available for $10 each. Registrants who are unable to attend will receive a recorded link to the webinar.

To register, contact reg[at]aehr.org.

Download the Fall 2025 training & webinar catalog

Associated Employers is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association committed to the success of employers, their employees, and their businesses. Founded in 1916, AE serves over 1,000 businesses and organizations throughout the region as the premier Human Resource outsourcing specialist.

What: Workshop on market validation, hosted by Montana West Economic Development (MWED)

When: 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. on Monday, November 17th

Where: MWED, 44 2nd Ave. W, Kalispell, MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Course Overview:
Scaling without validation risks wasted time, money, and opportunity. This session shows entrepreneurs how to test demand, refine offerings, and ensure fit before investing in growth.

Key Learning Objectives:

1. Apply market validation techniques (customer interviews, prototypes, surveys, pilots).

2. Analyze real data to confirm demand.

3. Decide when to pivot, persevere, or pause.

Who Should Attend:

Startup founders, product managers, and small business owners preparing to launch or scale new offerings.

Practical Takeaways:

1. Customer interview guide.

2. Validation experiment design template.

3. Metrics dashboard for measuring demand.

Cost: 

• MWED Members: $100

• Non-Members: $150

This session is part of Montana West Economic Development’s Business Lifecycle Masterclass Series. With expert insights tailored to Montana’s unique business landscape, you’ll gain practical tools to thrive in today’s economy. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and grow alongside other driven entrepreneurs and business leaders in Northwest Montana.

Register Here

What: Conversation on the Defense Innovation Unit’s OnRamp Hubs in Montana, hosted by Big Sky Economic Development & Montana State University

When: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13th

Where: Zoot Training Room, Big Sky Economic Development, 201 N. Broadway, Billings, MT 59101

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Defense Innovation Unit’s OnRamp Hubs serve as regional “front doors” for non-traditional, dual-use, and commercial technology companies to engage with the Department of Defense. These hubs provide physical and digital spaces for mentoring, matchmaking, acquisition education, and transition support, helping innovators navigate complex DoD processes. The planned establishment of an OnRamp Hub in Bozeman, Montana, will expand local capacity by connecting Montana-based businesses, universities, and entrepreneurs directly with defense opportunities, funding pathways, and collaboration networks. This effort strengthens Montana’s position in the national defense innovation ecosystem while accelerating the fielding of critical capabilities for the DoD.

Register Here

What: Regulated Export Training with TechEx expert Justin Cook, hosted by the Montana World Trade Center

When: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 13th

1:00 PM–5:00 PM: Optional 45-minute meetings scheduled

Where: Transportation & Systems Engineering Bldg., Room 333, 2327 University Way, Bozeman, MT 59715

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Are you certain your product, technology, or conversations with foreign buyers don’t trigger export licensing rules? Are your team members all aware of recent export licensing changes, how to safeguard CUI and contract flow-down requirements? 

Ensure your entire team is prepared. Join MWTC’s Regulated Export Training with TechEx expert Justin Cook to explore what you must know—from dual‑use definitions to cybersecurity obligations under export law and how to build compliance programs.

Morning training + optional 1:1 sessions with Justin give you direct access to expert guidance. 

• $99–Morning session only

• $159–Morning session + 1:1 meeting with Justin Cook.

Registration is limited, so RSVP to save your seat today.

Current Montana High Tech Business Alliance members can receive a 10% discount. Contact Communications Coordinator Melissa Paulsen at melissa.paulsen[at]mthightech.org for the coupon code.

Register Here

AGENDA:

8:15 AM: Arrival & Sign-In

8:30 AM–12:30 PM: Morning Program

1:00 PM–5:00 PM: Optional 45-minute meetings scheduled

What: Joint annual meeting and reception of the Montana High Tech Business Alliance and Montana Jobs Network, sponsored by First Security Bank Missoula

When: 3:30 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 6th. Doors open at 3:00 p.m.

Where: First Security Bank, 1704 Dearborn Ave, Missoula, MT 59801 + Zoom

Virtual - The MHTBA annual meeting and panel will be open to virtual attendees. The link will be emailed to those who register to attend virtually.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join us for the joint Annual Meeting and Reception of the Montana High Tech Business Alliance and Montana Jobs Network.

Special Pre-Meeting Opportunity: Strategic Growth & Transition Readiness Workshop | 12:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Join Cascadia Management Group for an interactive executive training on navigating business transitions and growth strategy.

This interactive executive session provides structured training and peer exchange for business owners and senior leaders to navigate organizational transition and ongoing value building. Grounded in Cascadia’s P5 Framework (Purpose, Product, Process, People, and Profit), this session builds on traditional transition planning to develop the ongoing discipline of readiness, capacity, and value creation.

Program Format

Peer Panel: peers who navigated third party sale/ acquisition, employee ownership transition, and leadership transition as well as a business valuation strategist.

Learning Objectives

• Learn and apply the process of micro-auditing to move the organization from reactive fixes to proactive value building.

• Reframe transition planning as a strategic growth discipline, not a one-time event.

• Assess organizational readiness using Cascadia’s P5 Framework—Purpose, Product, Process, People, Profit.

• Hear from peers who have navigated outright sale, employee ownership transition, and acquisition, as well as a business valuation strategist.

• Identify 1–2 readiness accelerators for the next 6–12 months to strengthen organizational resilience and value.

This pre-meeting session is limited to 20 total guests (up to two per member company) and offers a valuable opportunity for leadership-level development ahead of the annual meeting. 

Agenda

3:30 p.m. — Doors Open / Check-In and Networking

4:00 – 4:30 p.m. — MHTBA & MJN Annual Member Meeting

4:30 – 5:00 p.m. — Amazon Project Kuiper Presentation (Virtual option available; Zoom link will be emailed to registered attendees.)

• Featuring Beth Cooley, Head of State and Local Policy, Connectivity, Amazon

• Be among the first to hear about Project Kuiper, Amazon’s new low Earth orbit satellite broadband service coming to Montana soon.

5:00 – 7:00 p.m. — Networking Reception, hosted by First Security Bank Missoula

Guest Allowances by Membership Level

Each MHTBA member organization may register up to the following number of guests for the annual meeting, Amazon presentation, and reception.

• $5,000 Platinum: 10 guests

• $2,500 Gold: 8 guests

• $1,000 Silver: 6 guests

• $500 Bronze: 4 guests

• $250 Industry Professional or $100 Startup: 2 guests

• $100 Remote Professional or $50 Emerging Professional: 1 guest

(Note: the Cascadia Executive Training is limited to 20 total attendees — up to two per company.)

Please RSVP by Tuesday, November 4. Registration is required for both in-person and virtual guests.

Prospective members may attend one event for free. All interested prospects should contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director@mthightech.org to learn more.

Learn more about MHTBA membership benefits.

Advance registration is required. Registration links will be sent via email to Alliance members. For questions, please contact Communications Coordinator Melissa Paulsen at melissa.paulsen[at]mthightech.org.

What: Symposium celebrating the vibrant startup ecosystem developing at the University of Montana, hosted by the University of Montana College of Business

When: 12:30 - 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, November 6th

Where: Gallagher Business Building, Room 106, University of Montana, 32 Campus Drive, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

This two-hour event celebrates innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship at the University of Montana—and showcases how students and alumni are shaping the future of business in Montana and beyond. Appetizers will be provided as part of a networking lead-in that begins at 12:30 p.m.

Connor Folley, College of Business alumnus and serial entrepreneur, will share insights on entrepreneurship and his work with artificial intelligence in a talk titled “Scaling Smarter: Lessons from Building in the Age of AI.”

The program also includes a brief discussion on new entrepreneurship initiatives at UM, followed by GrizPitch, the student elevator pitch competition—where emerging Grizzly founders will present their ideas live.

We hope you’ll join us in supporting UM and Missoula’s growing innovation ecosystem, celebrating alumni, and cheering on the next generation of UM entrepreneurs.

The event is free and open to all interested in supporting and further developing entrepreneurship in Montana. Registration isn’t required. For more information, please contact Erik Guzik at erik.guzik[at]umontana.edu.

Download Flyer

Agenda Highlights:

12:30 pm - 1:30 pm: Check-In & Networking - Enjoy light appetizers and connect with fellow students, alumni, and local entrepreneurs.

1:30 pm - 2:10 pm: Building Regional Entrepreneurship and Innovation through GRIZ - Exploring GRIZ (Grizzly Regional Innovation Zone), a collection of new initiatives and programs to support entrepreneurship at and beyond UM.

2:15 pm - 2:55 pm: Scaling Smarter: Lessons from Building in the Age of AI - Featured Speaker: Connor Folley, UM College of Business alumnus and entrepreneur

3:00 pm - 3:30 pm: GrizPitch - Selected UM students, researchers, and faculty pitch their ideas in front of the live theater audience.

What: Summit showcasing the latest in North American agriculture tech and practices hosted by the Montana Agricultural Business Association and the Montana State University College of Agriculture

When: 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 6th

Where: Strand Union Ballroom A, Montana State University Campus, 59717 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Montana Ag Technology Innovation and Investment Summit provides a strategic opportunity to bring cutting-edge agriculture technology and innovation to the forefront of North America’s agriculture economy. It's a forum for farmers, investors, agribusinesses, and other stakeholders to share ideas for advancing the industry. Attendees can learn the latest trends, network, and explore new growth and investment opportunities. 

Additionally, the Summit will host a “Showcase of Agriculture and Food Innovation” for undergraduate and graduate students to present their project ideas to investors and gain access to MSU Launchpad programs to develop and refine their ideas and entrepreneurial skills.

This event is being held as part of MSU’s Celebrate Ag Week. Tickets are $100, and lunch is included.

Register Here

What: Quarterly networking series hosted by Big Sky Economic Development designed for member investors

When: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 5th

Where: Weave Industries, 2348 N Frontage Rd, Billings, MT 59101

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Each Behind the Build event is hosted at the business of one of our Member Investors, offering an insider’s look into their operations through a guided tour and a presentation from the business owner. These gatherings provide a unique opportunity to learn about their journey, challenges, and successes within our local community. Attendees enjoy drinks, light snacks, and networking.

Why BSED Hosts This Series
Our goal is to strengthen the bonds within our Member Investor community, spark collaboration, and celebrate the impact of your businesses. By highlighting the companies you support and facilitating open dialogue, Behind the Build creates a dynamic environment where ideas are shared, partnerships are formed, and our collective vision for growth is reinforced.

Register Here

What: Three session leadership and management seminar series hosted by Associated Employers

When: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Wednesdays, November 5th, 12th, and 19th  

Where: AE Training Room, 3435 Mountain Pass Rd, Billings, MT 59106

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Today’s leaders have varying levels of relationships and responsibilities with their staff. Leaders are coaches, counselors, problem solvers, and goal-setters. This seminar will explore how today’s leaders can maintain technical expertise while demonstrating an effective style of leadership. Leaders who attend this seminar will develop individual, one-on-one and group competencies needed to keep pace with their evolving leadership roles and responsibilities.

How You Will Benefit:

• Analyze and enhance your interpersonal skills to help you communicate, listen, and handle conflict in the workplace

• Learn how to be more influential with others

• Recognize your strengths and development opportunities and how to minimize your weaknesses by maximizing your strengths

• Enhance your performance management abilities

• Learn how to maximize results while managing group dynamics

What You Will Cover:

• DiSC Personality Profile

• Communication

• Conflict Management

• Performance Management/Dialogue/Coaching

• Discipline/Termination/Performance Appraisals

• Team Building

• Developing the Leader

Contact reg[at]aehr.org to register.

Download the Fall 2025 training & webinar catalog

Cost:

• AE Member Company - $650

• Additional Member - $500 

• Prospective Members - $1,000

• Additional Prospective Member - $750

Associated Employers is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association committed to the success of employers, their employees and their businesses. Founded in 1916, AE serves over 1,000 businesses and organizations throughout the region as the premier Human Resource outsourcing specialist.

What: Ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Wachholz Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center 

When: 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 30th

Where: Flathead Valley Community College, 715 Grandview Drive, Kalispell, MT 59901 

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join Flathead Valley Community College for the ribbon cutting of the Wachholz Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (WIEC). Following the ribbon cutting will be a fireside chat featuring Liz Marchi, Head of Community Engagement for Two Bear Capital, and Eric Harry, Director of the WIEC.

For questions, contact wiec[at]fvcc.edu.

Register Here

What: Lunch & Learn series on AI, presented by Code Girls United

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 30th

Where: Code Girls United Headquarters, 1203 US HWY 2 W Suite 31, Kalispell MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

NotebookLM for Grant Writing: Save time by centralizing funder research, summarizing requirements, and drafting proposals directly from your notes.

Nonprofits can polish narratives, create compelling data summaries, and keep your team aligned all in one place. In this session, you’ll see how NotebookLM streamlines grantwriting from start to finish, plus try it yourself in a hands-on demo. Bring your lunch and your gmail (computers provided).

Fees/Admission: $30

Register Here

What: Live chat with cybersecurity experts Sherri Davidoff and Matt Durrin on the latest SEO poisoning and malvertising research hosted by LMG Security

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 29th

Where: Virtual (event details will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Attackers are poisoning search results and buying sponsored ads to push malware disguised as trusted software. 

Sherri Davidoff and Matt Durrin will break down the latest SEO poisoning and malvertising research, including the Oyster/Broomstick campaign that hid backdoors inside fake installers. Learn how these attacks exploit everyday user behavior, why they’re so effective against trusted employees, and what your organization can do to stop them. 

Whether you’re a security leader, risk manager, or seasoned IT pro, you’ll walk away with clear, practical steps to reduce exposure and strengthen your defenses against the poisoned web.

Register Here

Speakers:

What: Lunch & Learn series on AI, presented by Code Girls United

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 28th

Where: Code Girls United Headquarters, 1203 US HWY 2 W Suite 31, Kalispell MT 59901

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

NotebookLM for Event Planning: Spend less time planning and more time on your mission.

Nonprofits can learn to streamline event planning from start to finish. Centralize notes, agendas, and budgets; generate fresh ideas and checklists; draft sponsor letters and social posts; andcapture feedback all in one place. Bring your lunch and your gmail (computers provided) to see how NotebookLM brings organization, creativity, and efficiency to your events, plus try it out in a hands-on demo.

Fees/Admission: $30

Register Here

What: Discussion on the state’s economic and energy opportunities hosted by Big Sky Economic Development

When: 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 23rd

Where: The Paper Mill, 2019 Montana Ave, Billings, MT 59101

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Montana’s leaders in business, energy, politics, and economic development are convening in Billings for a timely discussion on the state’s economic and energy opportunities. These experts will assess the challenges Montana faces with rising electricity prices and demand, as well as remedies required to keep Montana among the most attractive states for business investment.

Register Here

What: Discussion on the future of data centers, AI, and energy in Montana, co-hosted by Vision Net and the Montana High Tech Business Alliance

When: 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21st

Where: Vision Net, 1030 Central Ave, Billings, MT 59102 and virtually

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Join the Montana High Tech Business Alliance and Vision Net for a dynamic discussion on the future of data centers, AI, and energy in Montana. Guests will enjoy an elevated experience that blends thought-provoking conversation, networking, and a behind-the-scenes look inside one of Montana’s premier 47,000 sq ft. data technology facilities. 

We are thrilled that Representative Katie Zolnikov of HD44 in Billings, Speaker Pro Tempore and member of the Energy and Technology Committee, will join the panel to share her expertise on AI and tech policy in Montana.

Panel Discussion on Data Centers, AI, & Energy in Montana

• Facilitator: Rob Worden, CEO of Vision Net

• Speakers:

  • Scott Menhart, CTO of Vision Net, discussing data centers

  • Molly Schwend, Community Manager for NorthWestern Energy, highlighting energy in MT

  • Rep. Katie Zolnikov, House District (HD) 44, sharing the latest on AI policy

• Includes audience Q&A

Can't make it to Billings? You can still join us virtually for the panel discussion via Microsoft Teams starting at 5:00 p.m. MDT. A link will be emailed to all registered virtual guests.

Before and after the industry panel, Vision Net will host a High Tech Happy Hour networking event with drinks and hors d'oeuvres. MHTBA’s High Tech Happy Hours bring together startup founders, tech professionals, executives, investors, and community partners from across Montana’s innovation ecosystem.

As part of the program, two exclusive 15-minute guided tours of Vision Net’s state-of-the-art data center will be offered for up to 10 guests each (first-come, first-served).

Due to data center security compliance, all in-person guests must present a photo ID that will be photographed. Guests may send an image of their photo ID in advance to 1030event@vision.net to speed up registration. 

 Guest Limits by MHTBA Membership Level: 

• Platinum (5 guests) 

• Gold (4 guests) 

• Silver (3 guests) 

• Bronze, Industry Professional, or Startup (2 guests) 

• Remote Professional or Emerging Professional (1 guest) 

AGENDA:

4:00 PM – Doors open, registration, open bar, hors d’oeuvres, networking

4:15 PM – Data Center Tour #1 (10 guests max) 

4:30 PM – Data Center Tour #2  (10 guests max)

5:00 – 5:45 PM – Panel Discussion on Data Centers, AI, & Energy in Montana

Attendance is limited, so we highly encourage early registration to reserve your spot. Please RSVP by Friday, October 17, 2025. Registration is required for both in-person and virtual guests.

Prospective members may attend one event for free. All interested prospects should contact MHTBA Executive Director Christina Henderson at director[at]mthightech.org to learn more.

Learn more about MHTBA membership benefits.

What: Symposium for Montana manufacturers, hosted by the Kalispell Chamber's Manufacturing Alliance

When: 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 21st

Where: Flathead Valley Community College - Arts & Technology Building, 777 Grandview Avenue, Kalispell, MT 59901 United States

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

This event will provide focused, targeted information to support your business. The symposium's jam-packed agenda includes important information about manufacturing resources, legislative update, a manufacturing financial forecast and available tour of the FVCC Trades Institute. Symposium registration includes both continental breakfast and lunch at the chamber's manufacturing luncheon, following the symposium. 

This symposium will also provide a great opportunity to meet other manufacturers as you strengthen relationships that keep the Flathead Valley's manufacturing industry growing and strong. 

Register Here

AGENDA

• 8:00am registration check in opens and continental breakfast

• 8:30am Symposium begins

• 11:30am  Manufacturing luncheon begins

• 1:00pm program concluded

Pricing

$60 - Discover Kalispell Chamber manufacturing members

$70 - Non-member manufacturer

Symposium presenters include:  

• Montana Department of Commerce - Olivia Kettering, Business Development Manager

• Montana Department of Commerce - Justin Bilyeu, International Trade Specialist

• Montana Manufacturing Extension Center - Paddy Fleming, Director of MMEC

• Job Service Kalispell - Laura Gardner, Manager

• Montana Department of Labor & Industry - John Caldwell, Business Engagement Team Director

• ABS Legal - Dan Stusek, Attorney

• Montana Department of Labor & Industry -  Amy Watson, Chief Economist  (by zoom)

• Flathead Valley Community College - Lisa Blank, Ph.D., Executive Director, Workforce Development

• TechSovereign Partners - John Ghekiere, Founder/Owner

• Glacier Bank - Pete Akey, SVP, Chief Credit Officer

Manufacturing Luncheon Panelists:

• Amber Pacheco Holm - Founder, Fiber Reaper

• Tim Anderson - Founder/Owner, Invader Concepts

• Terri Chichester - President, Montana Global Health

What: Monthly member meeting featuring Keith Miller, co-founder of the Upslope Group

When: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, October 16th

Where: The Sidecar, 225 West Front Street, Missoula, MT 59802

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Hellgate Venture Network facilitates social networking among entrepreneurs and advisors engaged in building growth businesses in Western Montana.

Keith Miller is a 5th-generation Montanan who believes in Montana’s promise: not just for some, but for many. He co-founded the Upslope Group, which uses factory-built homes to deliver dignified homes at prices below the standard new-home market in Montana. The Upslope Group's approach uses technology, design, and community-first design to deliver housing that is dignified, affordable, and rooted in place.

Learn More

What: Webinar featuring Grizzly alumni who have excelled in the cybersecurity world, hosted by the University of Montana Alumni Association

When: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15th

Where: Virtual (Link to participate will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

October's virtual session will feature three Grizzly alumni who have excelled in the cybersecurity field. Gain insight, ask questions and learn from some of the best in the business! 

Panelists:

Jennifer Kivela — Cyber Security Engineer, Dataprise

Ben Mayo — Manager or IT & Security, Vision Net, Inc.

Andy Morse — IT & Security Manager, Pathlabs

Register Here

What: Three session leadership and management seminar series hosted by Associated Employers

When: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Tuesdays, October 14th, 21st, and 28th  

Where: Best Western Plus GranTree Inn, 1325 N 7th Ave, Bozeman, MT 59715

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Today’s leaders have varying levels of relationships and responsibilities with their staff. Leaders are coaches, counselors, problem solvers, and goal-setters. This seminar will explore how today’s leaders can maintain technical expertise while demonstrating an effective style of leadership. Leaders who attend this seminar will develop individual, one-on-one and group competencies needed to keep pace with their evolving leadership roles and responsibilities.

How You Will Benefit:

• Analyze and enhance your interpersonal skills to help you communicate, listen, and handle conflict in the workplace

• Learn how to be more influential with others

• Recognize your strengths and development opportunities and how to minimize your weaknesses by maximizing your strengths

• Enhance your performance management abilities

• Learn how to maximize results while managing group dynamics

What You Will Cover:

• DiSC Personality Profile

• Communication

• Conflict Management

• Performance Management/Dialogue/Coaching

• Discipline/Termination/Performance Appraisals

• Team Building

• Developing the Leader

Contact reg[at]aehr.org to register.

Download the Fall 2025 training & webinar catalog

Cost:

• AE Member Company - $650

• Additional Member - $500 

• Prospective Members - $1,000

• Additional Prospective Member - $750

Associated Employers is a not-for-profit voluntary membership association committed to the success of employers, their employees and their businesses. Founded in 1916, AE serves over 1,000 businesses and organizations throughout the region as the premier Human Resource outsourcing specialist.

What: Free webinar identifying which credentials truly deliver economic mobility and employer value hosted by State Business Executives (SBE)

When: 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. on Friday, October 10th

Where: Virtual (Link to participate will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

With more than a million credentials flooding the market, the landscape has become chaotic. Which credentials actually deliver mobility and opportunity for workers—and which ones fall flat? As Workforce Pell rolls out and states build frameworks to identify and support high-impact programs, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Join SBE for this important discussion as they cut through the noise and illuminate the path toward a credentialing ecosystem that is transparent, data-driven, and opportunity-rich—for learners, employers, and the future of work.

Register Here

What: Free online training on foreign exchange hosted by the Montana World Trade Center

When: 12:00 - 12:45 p.m. on Thursday, October 9th

Where: Virtual (Link to participate will be sent to registered guests)

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

Many small and mid-sized firms assume the F/X rate the bank provides on transfers is the market rate. In fact, it is rather far from it, and the spread on the rate is the real money maker for the banks.

Through the World Trade Centers Association program, Montana World Trade Center affiliates can access F/X rates usually reserved for large players. This can lower input costs, improve export pricing, improve competitiveness overseas--all with keeping your bank account where it is.

Ivan Drobnjak is a Managing Partner and seasoned F/X expert from Bannockburn Capital Markets. In this free online training, he’ll explain how this works in practice and how to take advantage.

Register Here

What: Cybersecurity training for small businesses, hosted by Prospera and sponsored by Zoot

When: 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 9th

Where: Prospera Business Center, 865 Technology Blvd. Suite A, Bozeman MT 59718

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT: 

In today’s digital landscape, small businesses are just as vulnerable—if not more so—than large corporations when it comes to cyber threats. This training session will explore how modern attacks are evolving beyond simple password breaches and phishing emails. We’ll break down real-world examples of ransomware, supply chain attacks, and insider threats, and show how even a minor lapse in security can cost a small business thousands in damages and lost trust. 

Attendees will learn practical, scalable solutions tailored for small operations—such as implementing two-factor authentication, securing cloud-based tools, and conducting basic threat assessments. More importantly, we’ll move past the outdated idea that cybersecurity is just an IT issue. This session will empower business owners and employees alike with the knowledge and mindset needed to protect digital assets, customer data, and the future of their business.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding Modern Threats: Learn how today’s cyberattacks—like ransomware, business email compromise, and supply chain infiltration—are targeting small businesses specifically.

• Multi-Layered Security Practices: Discover why relying on passwords alone is no longer enough, and how to implement tools like two-factor authentication, secure Wi-Fi practices, and endpoint protection.

• Employee Awareness Is Critical: Recognize how human error is often the weakest link and how regular staff training can prevent phishing, social engineering, and insider threats.

• Affordable Protection Strategies: Get introduced to budget-friendly cybersecurity solutions and policies that are realistic and effective for small business environments.

• Incident Response Planning: Learn how to create a basic cybersecurity response plan so your business can act quickly and effectively in the event of a breach.

• Information on the importance of cybersecurity insurance.

Cost: 

• Prospera Member: $125 (Must be owner/employee of current Prospera Member business.)

• Non-Member: $150

Register Here

About the Trainer:

What: Pitch competition for photonics and quantum technologies, co-hosted by MPQA, MSU, Qubits Venture, Scaling Montana,and Silicon Valley in your Pocket

When: Wednesday, October 8th

Where: EngineWorks, 2425 Technology Blvd, Bozeman, MT 59718

WHAT TO EXPECT AT THE EVENT:

The Mountain West Photonics and Quantum Pitch Event showcases the transformational potential of quantum technologies and photonic innovations. It highlights startups and entrepreneurs pioneering breakthroughs in quantum mechanics and photonics, with applications of next-gen computing, defense, communications, healthcare, and environmental monitoring. You can expect a rigorously curated event, featuring top-tier presentations and a high-caliber audience of experts, investors, and industry leaders.

We invite you to attend and participate in this prestigious event, held in the scenic setting of Bozeman, Montana. Competitors will have the opportunity to present their ventures and vie for a minimum of $100,000 in funding awards. Join us in celebrating innovation, entrepreneurship, and groundbreaking ideas.

Register Here