September | Start Smart: Your Guide to Building a Business
2025-09-16 13:00 - 15:00 (America/Denver) | 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.

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.

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!

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.

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

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!

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

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

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
2025-10-14 13:00 - 14:00 | 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

October | What happens after SAM? – Unlock New Business Opportunities!
2025-10-15 08:00 - 17:00 | Virtual, MT, United States

Build, Lead, and Retain Your Team | Employment Roadmap
2025-10-16 07:30 - 17:00 | Billings Hotel and Convention Center, 1223 Mullowney Lane, Billings, MT, 59102
Early bird only $75 for the full day conference and lunch is included! Early bird registration ends September 30, 2025.
$100 per person after September 30th.
Who should attend?
Business owners, HR Professionals, Managers, Supervisors,
Lead Staff, and anyone interested in learning how to“Build, Lead, and Retain” a team of successful employees.

Start Smart: Your Guide to Building a Business October
2025-10-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States

B2B Reboot – Saratoga Springs, UT
2025-10-17 08:00 - 12:00 | Eagle Mountain Business Resource Center, 3688 East Campus Dr. Ste. 101, Eagle Mountain, UT, 84005, 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.

JobSiteReady | MOBILE | Online Instruction + Onsite Training
2025-10-21 - 2025-10-22 | Virtual, MT, United States
Job Site Ready (JSR) equips participants with the essential skills required tostart a career in the construction trades. Participants are given exposure to tooluse and maintenance, materials handling, workplace safety, construction math,blueprint reading, basic framing, and more.Approximately 30-hours of online, self-paced modules15-hours of hands-on instruction on October 21+22Student tool set to keepMust be 16+ to participateEarn Job Site Ready credential

Digital Marketing Essentials for Small Business - Billings
2025-10-21 09:00 - 11:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
Join us for a hands-on, in-person workshop designed specifically for small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to build or improve their digital presence using simple, low-cost tools.
This session is facilitated live via Zoom and supported by on-site hosts at the Big Sky Economic Development’s Zoot Conference Room. No solo Zoom attendance—this is about interactive, real-time support and building community through active working groups.
What You’ll Learn

Optimizing Your Google Business Profile
Step-by-step guidance to claim, verify, and optimize your listing so customers can find you in local search and on Google Maps.
Low-Cost Website Development Tools
Overview of user-friendly platforms that help you create a professional website—without needing to hire a developer.
Basic SEO Techniques
Learn how search engines work and get practical tips to help your website show up in search results—no tech skills required.
Social Media Best Practices
Learn how to effectively engage your audience, post with purpose, and build visibility across social platforms.

*You will be able to download checklists and material to work on at a later date*
Who Should Attend

Small business owners
Startup founders
Rural entrepreneurs
Community-based service providers
**No prior digital marketing experience needed.**

How It Works
You’ll attend in person at Big Sky Economic Development’s Zoot Conference Room with a trained facilitator present to provide support. These are working sessions designed for learning, discussion, and implementation—not passive webinars.
Registered participants will receive:

A live Zoom session facilitated by our digital marketing expert
On-site support from your local host
Opportunities to collaborate and ask questions live
Meet other local small business owners and community-based service providers to create a ‘small business’ community

Space is limited—register early to secure your seat. Please bring your laptop or device to work on during the session.

AI for Government Proposal Success
2025-10-22 12:00 - 13:30 | Virtual, MT, United States
Discover How AI Can Strengthen Your Government Proposals
This free live webinar, hosted by Montana APEX Accelerator and Unanet, shows Montana businesses how to harness today’s most common AI tools to streamline proposal writing and improve the quality of submissions for government contracts.
What You’ll Learn
Explore practical ways to incorporate AI into your proposal process, from drafting to final polish, and see how these tools can help you compete more effectively for federal, state, and local opportunities.
Meet the Presenter
Alexander (Sasha) Jackson, Senior AI Solutions Engineer at Unanet ProposalAI, brings a unique perspective from his work with GovPro AI, Hebbia AI, and GovCompete, as well as his experience as a senior policy official at the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
Why attend? Discover step-by-step ways to integrate AI into your proposal process, improve win rates, and position your business for more government contracts.

Unlocking Montana's Business Potential
2025-10-23 17:00 - 20:00 | The Paper Mill, 2019 Montana Ave., Billings, 59101, United States
Energy Challenges and Economic Imperatives
RSVP HERE
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.

MEBA – Billings Reception Agenda
5:00 – 5:30pm: Doors, Check-In, Networking
5:20 – 5:45pm: Dinner Service (buffet)
5:45 – 6:10pm: Introduction and Keynote Address
6:10 – 7:15pm: Panel Presentations and Discussion
7:15 – 7:30pm Audience Q&A
7:30 – 8:00pm: Networking

Bozeman Refresh, Refocus, Reconnect - In Person Workshop for Government Contracting Success
2025-10-24 09:00 - 12:00 | Strand Union Building – MSU Campus, 795 W. Grant St., Bozeman, 59715, United States
Join the Montana APEX Accelerator team for an interactive, in-person session designed to help your business succeed in government contracting! This is your chance to connect face-to-face with expert advisors, gain practical insights, and network with other Montana businesses. Whether you’re new to contracting or ready to expand your strategy, you’ll learn how to access opportunities at the local, state, tribal, and federal levels — plus get a look ahead with a government contracting forecast.
What You’ll Learn
• A short presentation on where and how to find opportunities
• Step-by-step demos of key platforms like SAM.gov (saved searches & interested vendor lists)
• Tips to increase visibility and connect with buyers
• How to understand and use government forecasts to plan ahead
• Live Q&A with MT APEX advisors in a relaxed, open-forum setting
Why Attend?
• Connect in person with MT APEX advisors for tailored guidance
• Learn how to find and follow contracting opportunities
• Get step-by-step help navigating SAM.gov and other tools
• Discover how to market your business to government buyers
• Understand federal vs. state vs. local contracting differences
• Ask questions in a relaxed, open setting
• Network with fellow Montana businesses
• Leave with actionable strategies to improve your success
Open to all businesses — from first-time vendors to experienced contractors. If you want to grow in the government marketplace, this event is for you.

Google's AI Search Results: How your website can influence AI
2025-11-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
This session will outline the new features in Google’s AI search results and help your business or non-profit learn how to leverage AI search results pages. Learn how your website will help teach AI the proper information about your organization.

BSED November Executive Committee Meeting
2025-11-05 07:30 - 09:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
11.5.2025 Executive Committee Packet

Smart Start | November
2025-11-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States

Veterans Day | Building Closed
2025-11-11 | MT
In honor of Veteran’s Day, our building we be closed. We will resume regular business hours on Wednesday, November 12th.

BSED November Board Meeting
2025-11-13 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.
November 2025 EDA EDC Board Packet

Expanding Montana’s Role in National Defense Innovation
2025-11-13 11:00 - 13:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
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.
A few details about the event:

Date: Thursday, November 13th
Time: 11:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location: Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space (201 N Broadway, Billings, MT 59101) and Zoom

Agenda:

11:00 am | Networking & Lunch
11:30 | Welcome [BSED]
11:30 am | Expanding Montana’s Role in National Defense Innovation [Leif & Todd, DIU]
12:35 pm | Q&A [Leif & Todd, DIU]
1:00 pm | Event ends

About the Speakers:
Todd Daniels serves as Associate Director of MSU’s MilTech and adviser to the newly designated DIU OnRamp Hub. With extensive experience advancing technology transitions for the U.S. military and Department of Homeland Security, he helps connect innovative companies and researchers with federal opportunities. Daniels notes that the OnRamp Hub opens doors to nearly $1 billion in annual DIU funding, enabling Montana businesses and researchers to engage directly in national defense innovation and technology development.

Leif Ibsen is the Managing Director of Montana State University’s DIU OnRamp Hub, Leif Ibsen leads efforts to bridge Montana’s research community and private sector with the Department of Defense. He oversees initiatives that identify commercially successful technologies with potential defense applications, helping move proposals forward and facilitate collaboration between MSU, industry, and DoD partners. Ibsen emphasizes that the OnRamp Hub will serve as “an open front door” for innovation, economic growth, and national impact across the state.

November | What happens after SAM? - Unlock New Business Opportunities!
2025-11-19 11:30 - 12:30 | Virtual, MT, United States

Thanksgiving | Building Closed
2025-11-27 - 2025-11-28 | MT

Hidden Value: Leveraging R&D Tax Credits to Increase Spending Flexibility
2025-12-02 11:00 - 13:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
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 and do not know it! 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!
ADP in partnership with the Big Sky Economic Development Agency are hosting a workshop on the Federal Research and Development Tax Credit. This is a $20 Billion dollar tax credit and only 1/3 of eligible companies are taking advantage of.

Meet the 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.

Additional Information:
LEARN MORE HERE: ADP Tax Credits R&D EBOOK

BSED December Executive Committee Meeting
2025-12-03 07:30 - 09:00 | MT
Big Sky Economic Development – Zoot Training & Event Space 201 N Broadway – 2nd Floor, Billings, Montana
December 2025 Executive Committee Packet

2025 BSED Member Investor Gathering
2025-12-09 15:00 - 17:00 | Big Sky Economic Development, 201 North Broadway Ave, Billings, MT, 59101, United States
We’re looking forward to bringing our Member Investors together for an afternoon of networking, updates, and community connection. Join us from 3–5 PM in our Rock31 space for a relaxed gathering with fellow business and community leaders. A short program at 4 PM will include organizational updates from Big Sky Economic Development and our Board, followed by more time to connect and enjoy the afternoon together.
This gathering will be held in place of our 2025 BSED Annual Meeting.
RSVP HERE
