Northern Rocky Mountain Economic Development District

NRMEDD accomplishments for 2024 include:NRMEDD continued supporting initiatives that advance the development of the quantum industry throughout Montana, including supporting MSU in various grant applications to fund this work. Noteworthy efforts include a statewide SWOT analysis that analyzes regions across Montana on their readiness and willingness to participate in the quantum and photonics sector. This report will also be a catalyst for a gaps and recommendations report. This project has begun but will continue into next year.NRMEDD continued to participate with and lead the CHILD Task Force. This group of stakeholders focused on advancing childcare by increasing its availability and affordability throughout the region.Noteworthy efforts include the Gallatin County Childcare Needs ReportNREMDD revamped its Revolving Loan Program (RLF. During this reporting period, we approved multiple loans, including Crucible, an iron manufacturing company, Basecamp, a commercial construction company, Ridge and Blade Barber Shop, The Lab 406 (batting cage and coaching), Firmtech (Medical/Research/Manufacturing), and Pur Cell Bio (Medical/Research/Retail/Manufacturing). Additionally, NRMEDD denied loan applications from over five companies and organizations that did not meet the RLF program criteria.NRMEDD has collaborated with Madison County to create and support a Housing Coordinator position to address community housing needs and create a Housing Action Plan. The need for this position was identified during the 2023 Housing Needs Assessment. This was successful, and the Housing Coordinator should have a final Housing Action Plan published in early 2025. NRMEDD provided technical support in partnership with Gallatin County to conduct a feasibility study for employer-supported housing and childcare. The feasibility study will provide recommendations to the commissioners backed by best practices research and community outreach. The project has begun but will continue into 2025. NRMEDD provided ongoing technical support as needed throughout Madison, Gallatin, and Park Counties.