SigMT

SIGNATURE MONTANA | 93 BLDC's Role in Bue's Economic Growth It takes more than just an impressive set of local advantages and a wide variety of project merits for a business venture to prosper. For the past 70 years, BLDC has dedicated itself to providing the support, training, and connections clients need to propel their businesses forward – all while also helping build up the city as a whole. "Our goal is to build the vibrant economic environment needed to recruit, retain, and support business for the benefit of our community," Sullivan says. "We work with businesses of every size and in a variety of different ways. We work largely with manufacturers, but also with retailers, childcare providers, healthcare providers, developers in the mixed-use space of residential and commercial buildings, realtors, farmers and ranchers, hospitality businesses, and so much more." In addition to loan servicing and job creation, BLDC also offers specialty crop assistance, real estate opportunities, training, and small business summits, among other assistance modalities. Grants, Financing, and Finding the Perfect Location Grant research, writing, and administration are among the organization's most sought-aer services. "is is an area in which we really excel," Sullivan says. "We assist clients in both researching potential grants and also with writing grants and administering them once awarded." e Montana Department of Commerce, the Economic Development Administration, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) are among BLDC's grant partners.

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