Big Sky Economic Development

Special Executive Committee Session- October, 2025
2025-10-14 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Denver) | Virtual, MT, United States
Special Executive Committee Meeting
1:00 pm-2:00 pm
Please note that this meeting will be virtually via Microsoft Teams. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org and a link will be shared.
October 14, 2025 Executive Committee Special Session Agenda

BSED October Board Meeting
2025-10-09 07:30 - 09:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
This meeting will be held in-person in the Zoot Training Room on the 2nd floor. Please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org if you are planning to attend.
October 2025 EDA EDC Joint Board Packet

Special Executive Committee Session- October 2025
2025-10-07 14:00 - 15:30 | MT
Special Executive Committee Meeting
2:00 pm-3:30 pm
Please note that this meeting will be virtually via Microsoft Teams. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org and a link will be shared.
October 7, 2025 Executive Committee Special Session Agenda

Procurement Readiness Academy
2025-10-03 08:00 - 17:00 | Virtual, MT, United States
Ramp up your knowledge, skills, and abilities to win government market opportunities!
In just 10 weeks, you’ll gain skills and confindence to start competing for government contracts successfully. Stop wasting time and money trying to figure it out alone. This program will help you:

Establish a strong foundation for success in the government market.
Prepare, qualify, and chart a clear roadmap to secure the types of opportunities you’re targeting
Develop a focused strategy and actionable plan to achieve your business goals.

Program Highlights:

Duration: 10 weeks
Training: 10 video courses (assigned 1 per week)
Group Coaching: 10 weekly Zoom meetings on Thursdays at 9 a.m. MST
One-on-One Support: flexible office hours if you need help
Lifetime access to all cohort trianing matierials
Time Commitment: 4 to 5 hours per week

Who Should Attend?
New Government Contractors: If you’re looking to establish your business in the government marketplace, win contracts faster, and boost your success rates, this program is for you.
Established Government Contractors: If you’ve been pursuing government contracts for a year or more but haven’t achieved the results your expected, this program will help you identify the gaps and redine your approach.
Questions? Email Lynnette Englehardt at lynnette@bigskyeda.org
Launch Date: October 3, 2025

POSTPONED | STAY TUNED FOR UPCOMING DATE CHANGE FOR Big Sky Economic Development 2025 Annual Meeting
2025-10-02 11:30 - 13:30 | Billings Depot, 2310 Montana Ave., Billings, MT, 59101
You’re invited to our 2025 Big Sky Economic Development Annual Meeting, on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the Historic Billings Depot at 11:30 am – 1:30 pm (lunch provided).
From local milestones to statewide momentum, our region is shaping Montana’s future. This year’s program will deliver a comprehensive look at what’s happening in our community, across our region, and around the state. We’ll share a BSED organizational update, followed by insights from local leaders, regional perspectives, and a statewide overview. Two spotlight “Spark Sessions” will dive deeper into industries driving our regional economy—energy and agriculture—offering a candid look at current challenges, opportunities, and what’s ahead.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with peers, gain fresh perspectives, and leave with a clearer picture of how Billings and our surrounding region fit into Montana’s broader economic story.
Learn more & RSVP here!

BSED October Executive Committee meeting
2025-10-01 07:30 - 09:00 | Big Sky Economic Development – Venture Conference Room, 201 N Broadway - Lower Level, Billings, MT, United States
10.1.2025 Executive Committee Packet

B2B Reboot - Farmers and Ranchers
2025-09-26 08:30 - 16:30 | Virtual, MT, United States
This course provides an overview of entrepreneurship specifically for Farmers and Ranchers looking to start their own business in the agricultural industry. Veterans of all eras, Active-Duty Service members (including National Guard and Reserve), and spouses are eligible to participate. During the Reboot course, participants are introduced to the skills, knowledge, and resources they need to launch a business, including steps for developing business concepts, how to develop a business plan, and information on SBA/USDA resources available to help. The program is facilitated by subject matter experts from the SBA and their extensive network of skilled business advisors.
Course Objectives:

This course will be geared directly to those looking to do business in the agricultural industry.
To assist participants in understanding the steps, stages, and activities related to launching and growing a business as a post-military career.
To help participants understand how business ownership might align (or not) with their own personal strength and life goals.
To provide introductory training and orientation to the fundamental tools and strategies associated with executing plans to launch a new business.

DARPAConnect Regional Pop-Up
2025-09-24 08:30 - 16:30 | Montana State University
Join Us at the DARPAConnect Regional Pop-Up Event in Bozeman!
DARPA and MT APEX Accelerator invite you to the DARPAConnect Regional Pop-Up Event hosted at Montana State University on
Wednesday, September 24, 2025!
Why DARPA?
DARPA (the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency) is the U.S. Department of Defense’s premier R&D agency, relentlessly pursuing groundbreaking innovations in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, and more. Renowned for turning bold ideas into field-ready capabilities, DARPA continues to push the boundaries of possibility.
Whether you’re new to DARPA or a seasoned performer, this event will offer you valuable insights on “How to DARPA” from dynamic, visionary leaders, along with networking opportunities that can help propel your national security innovation efforts.
Event Details:
Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Time: Program: 8:30am – 4pm MT | Networking reception 4pm – 5pm MT
Location: Montana State University, Bozeman, MT (and virtually)
This full-day event brings together industry, academia, and emerging businesses to learn directly from DARPA office directors, program managers, and staff. Gain the tools and knowledge to successfully engage with DARPA, including:
DARPA Overview: Insights into DARPA’s mission and upcoming initiatives.
Engaging with Program Managers: Best practices for connecting with DARPA PMs.
Proposal Success Strategies: Learn what makes a proposal stand out.
Exclusive Networking: In-person attendees will have direct access to DARPA leaders for in-depth Q&A sessions.
Breakfast, lunch, and refreshments will be provided for all in-person participants.
Don’t miss this chance to explore how your research can align with DARPA’s mission and contribute to transformative national security
innovation. Secure your spot today!

September | What happens after SAM? - Unlock New Business Opportunities!
2025-09-17 11:30 - 12:30 | Virtual, MT, United States
Please join the Montana APEX Accelerator for a strategic VIRTUAL training on how YOU can sell your company’s products/services to federal and state agencies.
Topics include:
– Federal and State of MT purchasing thresholds
– Conducting market research
– Federal purchasing vehicles (methods)
– Where to find opportunities and how to get automatic notices
– Marketing your business to government agencies
– Tips on finding subcontracting opportunities
– Q & A session
Who should attend?
Any business in any industry that is interested in developing a focused market strategy for the government segment. It is not a requirement to already be registered in SAM or eMACS to attend the training. However, we will not be going over the registration process in this training.

September | Start Smart: Your Guide to Building a Business
2025-09-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
Dreaming of starting your own business? Make it happen with Start Smart! This workshop is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs ready to dive into their journey.
Learn how to build a strong foundation for your business by exploring essential topics like startup costs, financing options, and creating a solid business plan. You’ll leave with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to take the smart approach to launching your business.
Don’t just start—Start Smart! Join us to set your entrepreneurial journey on the right track.

BSED September Board Meeting
2025-09-11 07:30 - 09:00 | MT
Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space
201 N Broadway – 2nd Floor, Billings, MT, United States

This meeting will be held in-person in the Zoot Training Room on the 2nd floor. Please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org if you are planning to attend.
September 2025 EDA EDC Board Packet

BSED September Executive Committee Meeting
2025-09-03 07:30 - 09:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space 201 N Broadway – 2nd Floor, Billings, Montana
9.3.2025 Executive Committee Packet

August - What happens after SAM?
2025-08-20 11:30 - 12:30 | Virtual, MT, United States
Please join the Montana APEX Accelerator for a strategic VIRTUAL training on how YOU can sell your company’s products/services to federal and state agencies.
Topics include:
– Federal and State of MT purchasing thresholds
– Conducting market research
– Federal purchasing vehicles (methods)
– Where to find opportunities and how to get automatic notices
– Marketing your business to government agencies
– Tips on finding subcontracting opportunities
– Government Innovation Programs
– Q & A session
Who should attend?
Any business in any industry that is interested in developing a focused market strategy for the government segment. It is not a requirement to already be registered in SAM or eMACS to attend the training. However, we will not be going over the registration process in this training.

BSED August Board Meeting
2025-08-14 07:30 - 09:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space
201 N Broadway – 2nd Floor, Billings, MT, United States
This meeting will be held in-person in the Zoot Training Room on the 2nd floor. Please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org if you are planning to attend.
August 2025 EDA EDC Board Packet

Learn the Basics of Google Ads
2025-08-13 10:00 - 11:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
In this workshop you will learn how to reach more customers and grow your business with Google Ads.
In this session we’ll talk about:

How to create an account and set up an ad campaign
How to write great ads, refine keywords, and include ad extensions
How to measure success

This workshop is $10 to attend.
Workshop is facilitated by Girl Geek Communications in partnership with Grow with Google.

MT APEX GovMatch
2025-08-13 08:00 - 17:00 | University of Providence, 1301 20th St S, Great Falls, MT, 59405, United States
Join Us In-Person for the Montana APEX Matchmaking event of the year!
Great Falls APEX is proud to host Montana APEX GovMatch 2025. Whether you’re a supplier ready to showcase your capabilities or a buyer seeking qualified vendors to meet contracting needs, then this in-person GovMatch event is for you! Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with key decision-makers and build strategic partnerships that empower government contracting success.
Why Attend – For Buyers:

Discover qualified businesses that match your upcoming procurement needs
Showcase how to work with your agency and what you need in a 10-minute Spotlight session.
Build relationships with local, state, and federal suppliers
Meet potential subcontractors and business partners
Support business utilization goals through strategic engagement

Why Attend – For Suppliers:

Meet one-on-one with buyers and contracting officers from across federal, state, and local agencies
Learn what products and services agencies are actively seeking
Gain insights on how to do business with government entities
Present your capabilities and past performance directly to decision-makers
Expand your government contracting network and grow your opportunities

Special Executive Committee Session - August 2025
2025-08-13 07:30 - 09:00 | MT
Special Executive Committee Meeting
7:30 am – 9:00 am
Please note that this meeting will be in person in the Venture Conference Space on basement level. If you plan to attend, please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org.

Virtural Entrepreneurship Training
2025-08-12 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual, MT, United States
FOR MILITARY SPOUSES
This two-hour workshop, focused on military spouse entrepreneurship, provides an overview of the programs and resources available through the U.S. Small Business Administration to start, grow, expand, and recover a small business.
Participants will learn about the resources available to help them get started or continue the path of entrepreneurship.

August | Start Smart
2025-08-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States

Meet MT APEX: Butte, MT
2025-07-30 09:00 - 11:30 | Thornton Building, 65 E Broadway St., Butte, MT, 59701, United States
In-Person Advising for Government Contracting Success
Join the Montana APEX Accelerator team for an in-person training focusedon helping you refresh your government contracting skills and sharpenyour strategy.
We’ll walk through tools on SAM.gov, explain how to identify and respond toopportunities, and answer your questions in a relaxed, open-forum setting.You’ll learn how to set up saved searches, join interested vendor lists, andimprove your ability to find and pursue the right contracting opportunitiesfor your business.
What to Expect:
– A short presentation on how and where to find government contract opportunities
– Step-by-step demos of tools like saved searches and interested vendor lists
– Tips to increase visibility and connect with buyers
– Live Q&A and informal networking with MT APEX advisors and fellow businesses
Whether you’re pursuing your first contract or looking to expand into new markets, this is your chance to get direct, in-person support andbuild valuable connections.

July | What happens after SAM? - Unlock New Business Opportunities!
2025-07-16 11:30 - 12:30 | Virtual, MT, United States

Celebration of Life, Commissioner Ostlund
2025-07-12 10:00 - 11:00 | MetraPark First Interstate Arena, 308 6th Ave N, Billings, MT, United States
Celebration of Life

DATE: Saturday, July 12th
LOCATION: MetraPark, First Interstate Arena
TIME: 10:00 – 11:00 am
You can view his obituary here: https://www.dahlfuneralchapel.com/obituaries/11462/john-ostlund

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in John’s name to Chase Hawks Memorial Association Attn: Teddi, P.O. Box 31333 Billings, MT 59107.

B2B Reboot | Lewiston, UT
2025-07-11 08:30 - 15:00 | Virtual, MT, United States
Are you a Veteran or Military Spouse Recently Departed from the Service?
Course Objectives:

To assist participants in understanding the steps, stages, and activities related to launching and growing a business as a post-military career.
To help participants understand how business ownership might align (or not) with their own personal strength and life goals.
To provide introductory training and orientation to the fundamental tools and strategies associated with executing plans to launch a new business.

BSED July Executive Committee Meeting
2025-07-02 07:30 - 09:00 | MT
Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space 201 N Broadway – 2nd Floor, Billings, Montana

July 2025 Executive Committee Packet

DoD Cybersecurity Compliance: What Contractors Need to Know Q2 2025 Update
2025-06-26 11:00 - 12:30 | Virtual, MT, United States
Cyber threats targeting the U.S. military and defense industry are real—and increasing. Hackers are exploiting gaps in contractors’ IT systems to steal sensitive data, including Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
To protect this information, all federal contractors are required to meet certain basic cybersecurity standards. If you work on Department of Defense (DoD) contracts, additional and more advanced requirements apply under DFARS clauses 252.204-7012, 7019, 7020, and 7021.
Meeting these standards can be complex—even for experienced companies.
In this webinar, Adam Austin, Co-Founder and CTO of Totem Technologies, will explain these cybersecurity requirements in plain English. He’ll walk through key challenges, offer practical guidance, and share helpful resources to support your compliance journey.

Unlocking Business Funding: Navigating Loans & Resources for Growth
2025-06-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
Securing the right funding can be a game-changer for your business! Join us for an insightful workshop where lenders, SBA representatives, and SBA 504 loan experts will break down the financing options available to small business owners. Learn about the different loan programs, how to navigate the lending process, and what resources can help you secure the capital you need to start or grow your business. Whether you’re exploring financing for the first time or looking for new opportunities, this workshop will provide the knowledge and connections to move your business forward.

BSED June Board Meeting
2025-06-19 07:00 - 09:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space
201 N Broadway – 2nd Floor, Billings, MT, United States
This meeting will be held in-person in the Zoot Training Room on the 2nd floor. Please RSVP to rsvp@bigskyeda.org if you are planning to attend.
June 2025 EDA EDC Board Packet

June | What happens after SAM? - Unlock New Business Opportunities!
2025-06-18 11:30 - 12:30 | Virtual, MT, United States

Reshoring and Sustaining the U.S. Industrial Base
2025-06-17 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual, MT, United States
About the event

Shorter supply chains have proven to be lower risk and more profitable for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) for 20 to 30% of products that are now imported. Find out how to accelerate and benefit from the trend to strengthen the U.S. industrial base from Harry Moser, Founder of The Reshoring Initiative®.
Join Mr. Moser and the Northwest Texas APEX Accelerator to learn more!
DATE: JUNE 17, 2025
TIME: 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM CDT
LINK: Register for webinar HERE.
The Reshoring Initiative® is a nonprofit organization with the mission to bring good, well-paying manufacturing jobs back to the United States by assisting companies to more accurately assess their total cost of offshoring, and shift collective thinking from “offshoring is cheaper” to “local reduces the total cost of ownership.”
This event is being co-hosted by the Northwest Texas APEX Accelerator Centers, the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC), and other APEX Accelerators across the United States.
This APEX Accelerator is funded through a cooperative agreement with the Department of Defense.
Online | No Cost

Campus Billings
2025-06-17 10:00 - 13:00 | MT
A program built for students in Billings over the summer
Discover why Billings is the best place to live, work, and play as a student and graduate.
This program is designed to build your interns connection with Billings to help retain talent.
There is no cost to participate.
Campus Billings offers your interns the opportunity to:

Connect with other interns throughout the community
Explore the community and all it has to offer
Learn from local leaders
Discover the importance of personal branding, knowing your strengths to build confidence and excel in the workplace

Program Dates:

Tuesday, June 17th
Tuesday, July 1st
Tuesday, July 15th
Tuesday, July 29th

Email: shaye@bigskyeda.org
