Guest Column by Montana Department of Commerce Director Tara Rice

The Montana Department of Commerce is currently accepting applications for its Tourism Grant Program. Up to $750,000 will be awarded to projects that strengthen Montana’s economy through the development and enhancement of the State’s tourism and recreation industry.

Montana Department of Commerce Director Tara Rice announced today that the Department is now accepting applications for the Small Business Innovation Research or Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR) Matching Funds Program.

Polson, Montana is known for many things. It’s home to the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Flathead cherry crops, and the towering Mission Mountains. It’s also home to a locally owned food and beverage producer which crafts enough authentic Indian masala chai to fill 1.25 million cups in a year, and enough noodles for 20 million bowls of pasta.

The Montana Department of Commerce’s Indian Equity Fund is accepting applications for grants that assist start-up or expanding Native American businesses in Montana.

“Taste our Place,” the local food category of the popular Made in Montana program, is encouraging travelers to eat local with a summer billboard and airport poster campaign to support small businesses and agricultural producers with traveler dollars.

Governor Steve Bullock today announced that communities and school districts impacted by the growth or decline of natural resource development can now apply for a portion of $21.5 million in funds for needed infrastructure investments.

By Allison Whitmer, Montana Film Commissioner

The film industry produces something different every day. Movies and TV shows represent all varieties of genres and styles. Some may be three-hour epics, while others may be only a few minutes. They’re distributed through different methods, from major theater releases to YouTube uploads.

Governor Steve Bullock today announced $260,000 in grant awards for productions filming in Montana, which create jobs for Montana crew, support Main Street businesses and inspire viewers to visit.

Governor Steve Bullock today sent a letter to film production companies seeking alternative film locations to consider filming in Montana after Georgia passed a measure significantly restricting a woman’s ability to make her own healthcare decisions.