Flathead Business Watercooler

Tourism survey

The Whitefish Sustainable Tourism Management Plan Committee is asking local residents and business owners to participate in an online survey in an effort to gain insights into the community's attitudes toward tourism. Deadline for submissions is July 15.

Economic update

University of Montana's Bureau of Business and Economic Research mid-year economic update is July 30 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kalispell. Special focus on high tech, data centers and the digital economy. Learn how gas prices, inflation, interest rates and other factors are affecting the Montana economy, and what may lie ahead. economicoutlookseminar.com

Matching Funds program

The Montana Department of Commerce's Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Technology Transfer Matching Funds Program will be open for applications on July 1 and close on April 30, 2027. The Matching Funds Program assists technology-based Montana companies by providing additional funding that can be used for technology development or other uses. Grants of up to $30,000 are available. For more information, contact Grants Coordinator Kathy Bartlett at [email protected] or 406-841-2792. 

Growth, Succession, Exit 

Montana West Economic Development hosts Growth, Succession, Exit: Clarify the Path Forward on July 14 at 8:30 a.m. at the Wachholz Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center  at Flathead Valley Community College, 715 Grandview Drive, Kalispell. Every business must eventually decide whether to grow, transition to new leadership, or prepare for sale. This session clarifies the options and helps owners choose the right path. For information, visit dobusinessinmontana.com.  

Builder Breakfast 

The Flathead Building Association holds its Builder Breakfast and Tour at 8 a.m. on July 15 at the Builders FirstSource Truss Plant, 140 Industrial Court, Kalispell. For more information, call Mark Freidline at 406-752-2422.  

YP Bingo Night 

The Flathead Building Association Young Professionals at 5 p.m. on July 15 hold Bingo Night for networking at Sacred Waters Brewing, 3250 U.S. 2 E., Kalispell.  

Ribbon cutting

Join the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2 p.m. on July 16 for Stancraft Companies, 141 Main St., Kalispell. Founded on the shores of Flathead Lake in 1933, StanCraft has deep roots in the Flathead Valley and is returning with a new location in Kalispell.