Missoula Tech & Entrepreneur Resources
Montana Business Financing Resources
Below you will find resources courtesy of the Montana High Tech Business Alliance.
These resources are here to give you additional assets to navigate the challenging and rewarding world of Montana Start-Ups!
Questions? Contact us!
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- Personal Savings
- Pre-sales/Sales
- Consulting/contracting
- Credit card
- Existing Paycheck
- Friends/Family
- Personal Loan
- Description– Leverage your savings and/or take a loan against your retirement funds
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0-50K
- Typical Amount– $1-50K
- Prerequisites– Existing savings or retirement funds
- Tips for Success– Take calculated risks and have a fallback plan to rebuild your financial security. Keep connections at an old job(s), take on roommate or renters to reduce cash burn, etc
- Alternatives– Pre-sales / sales Credit card Debt or equity financing
- Description– Gain customer commitments and/or pre-sell. Similar to consulting but focused on whatever problem you’re solving. Sell annual plans for upfront cash flows.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early Rev: $0-1M (can also use for pivot)
- Typical Amount– $1-250K
- Prerequisites– Identified customer prospects Solving recognized problem Proof of concept/prototype Product specification sheet
- Tips for Success- Start simple with a spreadsheet. One tab list all potential customers. Another tab list product features that solve recognized problem. Call customers on tab 1 and confirm tab 2 is correct, then “ask for the sale” even before you have product. You’d be surprised how often you can earn money before your product is ready.
- Alternatives– Crowdfunding Consulting
- Description– Leverage your expertise to sell services and fund project
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0-50K
- Typical Amount– $1-250K
- Prerequisites– Identified customer prospects. Ability to provide services. Customer budget
- Tips for Success– Sometimes you have to solve a different problem or provide a different service initially to fund the ultimate project. Ideally, you can help identified prospects with other problems, establishing trust and relationship so they’re willing to hear your future ideas.
- Alternatives– Pre-sales / sales. Crowdfunding
- Description– Manage cash flows and control payment amounts until cash reserves. Use points program and zero interest.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $1-50K
- Prerequisites- Available credit. Free cash flow exceeds minimum payment.
- Tips for Success– Be careful here because it’s expensive money, depending on the rate, but this is your easiest tool to manage cash flows. Keep your credit record clean and pay yourself enough that you could qualify for other credit. Research best cards like 18 months 0% interest on balance transfers, or points programs (pay for your early sales travel with miles).
- Alternatives– Business line of credit
- Description: Keep your current job and commit after-hours and weekends to advance the project. Sometimes your employer might want to partner/invest as an angel.
- Business Stage: Seed Rev: $0- 100K (when you’re comfortable committing full time)
Typical Amount– $1-50K - Prerequisites– Free time to work on project Disposable funds No employer conflicts (trade secrets, non- compete, etc.)
- Tips for Success– Don’t let your project degrade the quality of work with the employer or could hinder their potential help or getting your job back later. Be respectful of employer’s intellectual property and client relationships (don’t poach or steal talent or IP or customers).
- Description– Typically small incremental amounts of funding from personal network as in-kind investment, cash loan or pledge, or equity investment (typically for common stock).
- Business Stage– Seed / Early Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $5-100K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank account. Experienced attorney.
- Tips for Success– Make sure not to accept what people cannot afford to lose and be very clear up front that it could fail. These people have to wait longest for potential exit and can strain personal relationships over many years of ups and downs. Preferably accept investment from accredited investors ($300K household income or $1M net worth). Hire a good attorney to establish good documents.
- Description– A company or nonprofit that helps startup and early-stage companies to grow by providing services such as management training, office space, pooled or sponsored resources, conference rooms, vendor freebies (Internet, Legal, Accounting, etc.). Some have funding opportunities.
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $1-50K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype, Business plan, Customer commitment(s) SWOT Analysis.
- Tips for Success– Clearly describe the risks and share SWOT analysis. Get professional help drafting the agreement. Make sure payment plan doesn’t impede early growth and take all your cash flows needed to fuel business. Try for the deferred payment plan (no payments first 6-12 months).
More below…
- Description– A company or nonprofit that helps startup and early-stage companies to grow by providing services such as management training, office space, pooled or sponsored resources, conference rooms, vendor freebies (Internet, Legal, Accounting, etc.). Some have funding opportunities.
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0-100K
- Typical Amount– $1-120K
- Prerequisites– Qualify for membership
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network. If you have a skill or experience, help others as in-kind contribution. Work your butt off and take advantage early on. Get mentorship from someone who’s been there, done that (not just a fancy degree). National accelerators are highly competitive. Acceptance rates between 1-3 percent.
- Address- 1121 E Broadway St, Missoula MT
- Phone– (406) 544-0373
- Website– www.montanaenterprisecenter.com
- Details– UM-sponsored incubator. Office space, support services, 1 GB Internet.
- Contact– Brigitta Miranda-Freer, Building Manager
- Description– A company or nonprofit that helps startup and early-stage companies to grow by providing services such as management training, office space, pooled or sponsored resources, conference rooms, vendor freebies (Internet, Legal, Accounting, etc.). Some have funding opportunities.
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0-100K
- Typical Amount– $1-120K
- Prerequisites– Qualify for membership
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network. If you have a skill or experience, help others as in-kind contribution. Work your butt off and take advantage early on. Get mentorship from someone who’s been there, done that (not just a fancy degree). National accelerators are highly competitive. Acceptance rates between 1-3 percent.
- Address- Suite 205A University Center, UM Campus
- Phone– (406) 243-5723
- Website– www.umt.edu/launchpad
- Details– Campus-based entrepreneurship program to support and mentor UM students, staff, and alumni.
- Contact– Paul Gladen, Director
- Description– A company or nonprofit that helps startup and early-stage companies to grow by providing services such as management training, office space, pooled or sponsored resources, conference rooms, vendor freebies (Internet, Legal, Accounting, etc.). Some have funding opportunities.
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0-100K
- Typical Amount– $1-120K
- Prerequisites– Qualify for membership
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network. If you have a skill or experience, help others as in-kind contribution. Work your butt off and take advantage early on. Get mentorship from someone who’s been there, done that (not just a fancy degree). National accelerators are highly competitive. Acceptance rates between 1-3 percent.
- Address- 251 A&B Strand Union Building, MSU Campus
- Phone– (406) 994-4383
- Website– www.montana.edu/launchpad
- Details– Campus-based entrepreneurship program to support and mentor MSU students, staff, and alumni.
- Contact– Trevor Huffmaster, Director
- Description– A company or nonprofit that helps startup and early-stage companies to grow by providing services such as management training, office space, pooled or sponsored resources, conference rooms, vendor freebies (Internet, Legal, Accounting, etc.). Some have funding opportunities.
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0-100K
- Typical Amount– $1-120K
- Prerequisites– Qualify for membership
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network. If you have a skill or experience, help others as in- kind contribution. Work your butt off and take advantage early on. Get mentorship from someone who’s been there, done that (not just a fancy degree). National accelerators are highly competitive. Acceptance rates between 1-3 percent.
- Location– Mountain View, CA
- Website– www.ycombinator.com
- Details– Seed accelerator that invests $120k twice a year in startups that move to Silicon Valley for 3 months. Submittable in Missoula is an alum.
- Description– A company or nonprofit that helps startup and early-stage companies to grow by providing services such as management training, office space, pooled or sponsored resources, conference rooms, vendor freebies (Internet, Legal, Accounting, etc.). Some have funding opportunities.
- Business Stage– Seed Rev: $0-100K
- Typical Amount– $1-120K
- Prerequisites– Qualify for membership
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network. If you have a skill or experience, help others as in-kind contribution. Work your butt off and take advantage early on. Get mentorship from someone who’s been there, done that (not just a fancy degree). National accelerators are highly competitive. Acceptance rates between 1-3 percent.
- Location– Boulder, NYC, etc
- Website– www.techstars.com
- Details– Startup accelerator. In exchange for 6% common stock, each company accepted receives $18,000 and a three-month support program.
More below…
- Ruffato Business Startup Challenge
- Startup Weekend/Up Global
- Blackstone LaunchPad Demo Day
- SBDC Shark Tank
- Description– Entrepreneurs present business ideas to judges, often competing for cash prizes. Good opportunity to refine your plan and pitch while using the award money to fund early growth. A great way to team with other startups or recruit co-founders.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for recruitment/pivot)
- Typical Amount– $1-25K
- Prerequisites– Strong financial modeling, Business plan, Marketing plan, SWOT analysis, Good communication skills.
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network with others. Sometimes you find another idea you like and instead form a stronger team with a better chance of success. Know your numbers and business drivers, customers, business model (think Shark Tank). Address- Blackstone LaunchPad, Suite 205A University Center, UM Campus
- Phone– (406) 243-5723
- Website– www.umt.edu/launchpad/businessstartupchallenge
- Details– Montana-wide event hosted annually by the University of Montana School of Business Administration. Run by Montana Academy of Distinguished Entrepreneurs (MADE) and the UM Blackstone LaunchPad.
- Contact– Paul Gladen, CEO, MADE
- Description– Entrepreneurs present business ideas to judges, often competing for cash prizes. Good opportunity to refine your plan and pitch while using the award money to fund early growth. A great way to team with other startups or recruit co-founders.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for recruitment/pivot)
- Typical Amount– $1-25K
- Prerequisites– Strong financial modeling, Business plan, Marketing plan, SWOT analysis, Good communication skills.
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network with others. Sometimes you find another idea you like and instead form a stronger team with better chance of success. Know your numbers and business drivers, customers, business model (think Shark Tank).
- Locations– Bozeman, Missoula, Billings, Great Falls, Glacier (Flathead)
- Phone– (406) 531- 6699
- Website– http://startupweekend.org/
- Details– 54-hour weekend events. Aspiring entrepreneurs pitch ideas for new startup companies, form teams, present working prototypes to judges Sunday. Startup Weekend is a program of UP Global, owned by TechStars in Boulder.
- Contact– Nathan Stephens, co-organizer
- Description– Entrepreneurs present business ideas to judges, often competing for cash prizes. Good opportunity to refine your plan and pitch while using the award money to fund early growth. A great way to team with other startups or recruit co-founders.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for recruitment/pivot)
- Typical Amount– $1-25K
- Prerequisites– Strong financial modeling, Business plan, Marketing plan, SWOT analysis, Good communication skills.
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network with others. Sometimes you find another idea you like and instead form a stronger team with better chance of success. Know your numbers and business drivers, customers, business model (think Shark Tank).
- Website– https://www.blackstonelaunchpad.org/
- Details– 20 ventures founded by participants in Blackstone LaunchPad programs across the country pitch their ideas in NYC for the chance to win prizes.
- Contact– Paul Gladen (UM) or Trevor Huffmaster (MSU)
- Description– Entrepreneurs present business ideas to judges, often competing for cash prizes. Good opportunity to refine your plan and pitch while using the award money to fund early growth. A great way to team with other startups or recruit co-founders.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for recruitment/pivot)
- Typical Amount– $1-25K
- Prerequisites– Strong financial modeling, Business plan, Marketing plan, SWOT analysis, Good communication skills.
- Tips for Success– Be prepared to network with others. Sometimes you find another idea you like and instead form a stronger team with better chance of success. Know your numbers and business drivers, customers, business model (think Shark Tank).
- Location– Varies. Past events have been held in Butte and Helena.
- Phone– (406) 533-6780
- Website– http://sbdc.mt.gov/
- Details– Shark Tank-style pitch competition hosted by Montana SBDC (Small Business Development Centers) in conjunction with their annual Invest in Success Conference. 1st Place: $5,000, 2nd Place: $2,500
- Contact– Julie Jaksha, coordinator
More below…
- Description– Funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a large number of people. Entrepreneur pre-sells a product or service to launch a business concept without incurring debt or sacrificing equity/shares. Commonly done through an internet-based platform.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for pivot or new product sales)
- Typical Amount– $1k-$10M
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Website Video. The business formed with a bank account.
- Tips for Success– Treat this like your product sales pitch. Emphasize your unique value proposition. Key is enthusiasm and future vision (how great the world would be if this existed). Partner with a good videographer and graphic designer (standards are high) and have the budget for online ad buys.
- Website– www.kickstarter.com
- Details– Funding platform for creative projects. Pocket NC in Bozeman raised $355,833 on Kickstarter.
- Description– Funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a large number of people. Entrepreneur pre-sells a product or service to launch a business concept without incurring debt or sacrificing equity/shares. Commonly done through an internet-based platform.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for pivot or new product sales)
- Typical Amount– $1k-$10M
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Website Video. The business formed with a bank account.
- Tips for Success– Treat this like your product sales pitch. Emphasize your unique value proposition. Key is enthusiasm and future vision (how great the world would be if this existed). Partner with a good videographer and graphic designer (standards are high) and have the budget for online ad buys.
- Website– www.gofundme.com
- Details– Websites for personal online fundraising
- Description– Funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a large number of people. Entrepreneur pre-sells a product or service to launch a business concept without incurring debt or sacrificing equity/shares. Commonly done through an internet-based platform.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for pivot or new product sales)
- Typical Amount– $1k-$10M
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Website Video. The business formed with a bank account.
- Tips for Success– Treat this like your product sales pitch. Emphasize your unique value proposition. Key is enthusiasm and future vision (how great the world would be if this existed). Partner with a good videographer and graphic designer (standards are high) and have the budget for online ad buys.
- Website– www.indiegogo.com
- Details– International fundraising website
- Description– Funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a large number of people. The backer receives shares of a company in exchange for the money pledged.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early / Growth Rev: $0-1M (can also use for pivot or new product sales)
- Typical Amount– Startups and small businesses can raise up to $1M in a period of a year
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Business formed with a bank account. Significant disclosures are required for transparency.
- Tips for Success– Historically done with accredited investors. The Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act or JOBS Act, is a new law allowing non-accredited investor participation in crowdfunding. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney is strongly recommended.
- Alternatives– Rewards Crowdfunding
More below…
- Description– Individual angel or accredited investors with debt or equity investment.
- Business Stage– Seed / Early Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $5-100K ea
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney
- Tips for Success– Work with accredited investors ($300K household income or $1M net worth) and experienced attorney. If doing equity, be sure to save your login to EDGAR for Blue Sky Filings, etc. in safe place with backups
- Website– https://www.dorsey.com/locations/missoula
- Location– 125 Bank St #600 Missoula MT
- Phone– (406) 721- 6025
- Details– Erin McCrady is head of the Missoula office.
- Contact Person– Erin McCrady, Partner
- Description– Organized angel group making investments on behalf of members (each buys ‘units’ in the fund), often with members investing additional amount side by side with the same terms.
- Business Stage– Early Rev: $20- 250K
- Typical Amount– $100K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck
- Tips for Success– Beware of large term sheet but little capital commitment. Many say members invest side by side but no guarantee. If below $500K committed, use convertible debt otherwise $30- 50K of funds used in legal expense to do deal, buy insurance, etc. for a preferred equity financing. Then you’re back to square one before you even started. Research a new instrument called ‘convertible equity’ that some are trying.
- Website– http://www.frontierangels.com/
- Location– Bozeman, MT
- Details– Fund made up of angel investors that seek to invest in promising young companies in Montana. Concentrates on early-stage businesses with high growth potential and the intention to exit within 5-10 years.
- Contact Person-Pat LaPointe, Managing Director
- Missoula Economic Partnership Angel Network Description– Angel investors decide individually if they want to participate (not all or nothing).
- Business Stage– Early or Stage 2 Rev: $20- 250K
- Typical Amount– $100- 750K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck
- Tips for Success– Although it’s typically not ideal to pitch a group ever, sometimes you can leverage the enthusiasm of a few and lock them up, then play on fear/greed of others that don’t want to miss out to increase participation. Most people just don’t want to be embarrassed amongst peers (“you invested in that?!”) but they also fear missing out. Play to the latter by focusing on locking up the first prospects before casting a wider net.
- Website– http://www.missoulapartnership.com/grow-your-business/angel-network/
- Location– 2501 Catlin Street Suite 205 Missoula MT
- Phone– (406) 541-6461
- Details– Group of local investors who aim to make meaningful capital investments of between $250,000 and $750,000 in early-stage companies with ties to Missoula.
- Contact Person– Jenni Graff, Director of Economic Development
- Description– Angel investors decide individually if they want to participate (not all or nothing).
- Business Stage– Early or Stage 2 Rev: $20- 250K
- Typical Amount– $100- 750K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype, Business plan, Business formed with bank acct, Experienced attorney, Customer commitments and/or existing revenues. Strong financial modeling, Pitch decks, etc.
- Tips for Success– Although it’s typically not ideal to pitch a group ever, sometimes you can leverage the enthusiasm of a few and lock them up, then play on fear/greed of others that don’t want to miss out to increase participation. Most people just don’t want to be embarrassed amongst peers (“you invested in that?!”) but they also fear missing out. Play to the latter by focusing on locking up the first prospects before casting a wider net.
- Website– http://www.keiretsuforum.com/
- Location– Denver, CO
- Details– 40 Chapters on 3 continents (Boise, Seattle)
More below…
- First Interstate Bank (Billings)
- Rocky Mountain Bank
- Big Sky Western Bank (Glacier Bank)
- First Security Bank (Bozeman)
- First Interstate Bank (Bozeman)
- First Interstate Bank (Great Falls)
- First Interstate Bank (Helena)
- Valley Bank of Helena (Glacier Bank)
- Glacier Bank (Kalispell)
- First Interstate Bank (Kalispell)
- First Bank of Montana (Lewistown)
- First Interstate Bank (Missoula)
- First Security Bank Missoula (Glacier Bank)
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck/banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– firstinterstatebank.com
- Location– Billings, MT
- Phone– (406) 255-5800
- Contact Person– Keith Cook, Billings Market President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– https://www.rmbank. com/
- Locations– Bozeman, Billings, Missoula, Kalispell, Plentywood, Whitehall
- Phone– (406) 777-7805
- Contact Person– Bob Gieseke, Senior Vice President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck/banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.bigskybank.com
- Locations– Bozeman
- Phone– (406) 587-2922
- Contact Person– Jim Ness, President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.ourbank.com
- Locations– Bozeman
- Phone– (406) 585-3911
- Contact Person– Steve Wheeler, President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.firstinterstatebank.com
- Locations– Bozeman
- Phone– (406) 556-4900
- Contact Person– Scott Levandowski, Bozeman Market President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.firstinterstatebank.com
- Locations– Great Falls
- Phone– (406) 454-6200
- Contact Person– Kyle Herda, Vice President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.firstinterstatebank.com
- Locations– Great Falls
- Phone– (406) 457-7171
- Contact Person– Rich Bruner, Helena Market President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.valleybankhelena.com
- Locations– Helena
- Phone– (406) 495-2400
- Contact Person– Rosslyn Duncan, President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.glacierbank.com/
- Locations– Kalispell
- Phone– (406) 756-4254
- Contact Person– Bob Nustuen, Kalispell Market President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.firstinterstatebank.com
- Locations– Kalispell
- Phone– (406) 756-5200
- Contact Person– David Dittman, Kalispell Market President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.1stbmt.com
- Locations– Lewistown
- Phone– (406) 538-7471
- Contact Person– Dean Comes, President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.firstinterstatebank.com
- Locations– Missoula
- Phone– (406) 523-4349
- Contact Person– Tom Severson, Missoula Market President
- Description– A lending arrangement between a financial institution (usually a bank or credit union) and a business. that allows the business to access funds when they need it up to a pre-approved limit. Use to manage cash flows (often interest only minimum payments) and short-term expansion. Usually secured with receivables and/or personal assets.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $20- 500K
- Typical Amount– $10K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product prototype or proven Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– This is another great way to manage cash flow and cheaper than credit cards (normally). Make sure you have enough cash flow to pay at least interest on money borrowed. Establish a relationship with a banker, or get a referral from accountant or attorney they know well. Sometimes attorney referrals open doors so stress finding good, experienced one.
- Alternatives– Credit Cards
- Website– www.fsbmsla.com/
- Locations– Missoula
- Phone– (406) 728-3115
- Contact Person– Scott Burke, President and CEO
More below…
- Montana Banks
- Northern Rocky Mountain Economic Development District (NRMEDD)
- Missoula Economic Partnership (MEP)
- Bitterroot Economic Development District (BREDD)
- Montana Economic Developers Association
- New Market Tax Credit Coalition
- Montana Community Development Corp. (MOFI)
- Montana Facility Finance Authority
- SBA Loan Guarantee
- Farmers Home & USDA
- Montana Community Finance
- Alaska Growth Capital (AGC)
- MicroBusiness Finance Program
(See list)
- Business Line of Credit Locations– Various cities
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires a personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Business plan Business formed with bank acct Excellent credit w/ collateral Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck/banker relationships
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Website– www.nrmedd.com/
- Locations– Bozeman (Gallatin and Park Counties)
- Details– NRMEDD provides business assistance in Gallatin and Park Counties, including facilitating relationships with state and local agencies.
- Email– info@nrmedd.org
- Contact Person– Rob Gilmore, Executive Director
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Website– www.missoulapartnership.com
- Location– 2501 Catlin St. Suite 205, Missoula, MT
- Phone– (406) 541-6461
- Details– MEP provides business assistance to Missoula area companies seeking financing from government agencies, financial institutions and community development organizations across the region.
- Contact Person– Jenni Graff, Director of Economic Development
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Website– www.bredd.org
- Location– 1121 E. Broadway, Suite 120, Missoula MT
- Phone– (406) 258-3435
- Details– BREDD provides business assistance in Ravalli, Mineral, and Missoula counties, including facilitating relationships with state and local agencies.
- Contact Person– Nicole Rush, Grants Manager (MEP)
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Website- www.medamembers.org/meda
- Location– 118 E. Seventh St. Suite 2A, Anaconda MT
- Phone– (406) 563-5259
- Details– Find economic development organizations in your area that may help you navigate available resources.
- Contact Person– Gloria O’Rourke, Coordinator
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Website- www.nmtccoalition.org
- Details– The New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) Coalition is a national membership organization founded in 1998 to advocate on behalf of the NMTC program. The Coalition, which now includes more than 150 members, is managed by Rapoza Associates, a public interest lobbying, policy analysis, and government relations firm located in Washington, DC that specializes in providing comprehensive legislative and support services to community development organizations, associations and public agencies.
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Location– 229 E. Main St. Missoula MT (statewide)
- Website- www.mofi.org
- Phone– (406) 728-9234
- Details– Community Development Finance Institution (CDFI) providing business financing and consulting in Montana. Loans can be a standard term or line of credit and range from $1,000–$1,000,000. Offer flexible terms with rates generally 1–2% higher than a bank. Can partner with banks to get clients the right loan package.
- Contact– Dave Glaser, CEO
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Location– 2401 Colonial Dr. 3rd Floor, Helena MT
- Website- www.mtfacilityfinance.com
- Phone– (406) 444-0052
- Details– The Facility Finance Authority is funded entirely by proprietary funds with revenues collected from interest, fees, and charges from participating institutions. No public funds or tax monies are appropriated to the Authority.
- Participating Lenders– First Interstate Bank, Glacier Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, First Security Bank
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Location– 10 West 15th St. Helena, MT (statewide)
- Website- www.sba.gov/offices/district/mt/helena
- Phone– (406) 441-1081
- Details– The Montana District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) helps reduce the risk for lenders by guaranteeing loans through its 7(a) Guaranty Loan Program (provides short or long-term financing for small business start-up or expansion needs) and 504 Certified Development Company program (provides long-term fixed rates financing for land, buildings and equipment).
- Contact– Wayne Gardella, District Director
- Participating Lenders– First Interstate Bank, Glacier Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, First Security Bank
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Website- www.rd.usda.gov
- Details– Business and Industry Guarantee Loans
- Participating Lenders– First Interstate Bank, Glacier Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, First Security Bank
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Location– 825 Great Northern Blvd Suite 301 Helena, MT
- Website- www.mtcommunityfinance.org
- Phone– (406) 443-3261
- Details– Montana Community Finance Corporation (MCFC) is a Certified Development Company licensed and regulated by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to deliver 504 loan financing. MCFC’s role is to package, process, close and service SBA 504 loans in the state of Montana. Our professional staff works with the lender and/or the small business owner to tailor a financing package that meets program guidelines and the credit criteria of the business.
- Participating Lenders– First Interstate Bank, Glacier Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, First Security Bank
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Website- http://alaskagrowth.com/business-loans/commercial-small-business-lending/montana/
- Details– AGC is a leader in government- guaranteed lending, especially the SBA 7(a) program. AGC recognizes similarities between Alaska and Montana that will bring benefits to local small businesses.
- Phone– (406) 581-8779
- Contact– John O’Donnell
- Email– JODonnell@alaskagrowth.com
- Participating Lenders– First Interstate Bank, Glacier Bank, Rocky Mountain Bank, First Security Bank
- Description– Leverage proven model and revenues to fund expansion or equipment purchase. Typically requires personal guarantee and collateral.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $10-500K
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype. Business plan, Business formed with a bank acct. Excellent credit w/ collateral. Customer commitments and/or existing revenues, Strong financial modeling, Pitch deck/banker relationships.
- Tips for Success– Visit SBA.gov and research programs, then talk to your trusted banker or economic development organization. (See also list under Business Line of Credit). Sometimes other companies flush with cash, or even a supplier, might extend a line of credit or provide a loan. Some equipment providers or contractors will pitch in for you to meet deal or grant criteria in exchange for them awarded contract once you win it.
- Location– 301 S Park Ave, Helena, MT (statewide)
- Website- http://businessresources.mt.gov/MBFP
- Phone– (406) 841-2751
- Details– MicroBusiness Finance Program (MBFP) administers funding for the MicroBusiness Development Corporations (MBDCs) located across Montana. Provide loans up to $100,000 to qualified Montana businesses with fewer than 10 full- time employees and annual revenues of less than $1,000,000.
- Contact– Anne Pichette, Program Specialist
More below…
- Description– A Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is a source of money from which loans are made for multiple small business development projects. The central fund is replenished as individual projects pay back their loans, creating the opportunity to issue other loans to new projects.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $2k-$200k
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Business plan Business formed with bank account Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– RLFs are typically meant to serve as “gap financing” for entrepreneurs who cannot get their entire project funded through commercial lenders (banks) or are otherwise viewed as being high risk. Rates are usually higher than a traditional lender. Many communities have RLFs that are underutilized.
- Alternatives– Private loans, Bank loans
- Website– http://www.bootstrapmontana.com/
- Locations– PO Box 173040, Reid Hall 309, MSU Campus, Bozeman MT
- Phone– (406) 994-6198
- Details– The Bootstrap Montana loan program provides one-year, zero percent interest loans to Montana entrepreneurs. These loans are for marketing and sales related activities in amounts ranging from $2,000 to $20,000.
- Contact Person– Peter Rubicam, Director
- Description– A Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is a source of money from which loans are made for multiple small business development projects. The central fund is replenished as individual projects pay back their loans, creating the opportunity to issue other loans to new projects.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0- 100K
- Typical Amount– $2k-$200k
- Prerequisites– Product concept or prototype Business plan Business formed with bank account Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / banker relationships
- Tips for Success– RLFs are typically meant to serve as “gap financing” for entrepreneurs who cannot get their entire project funded through commercial lenders (banks) or are otherwise viewed as being high risk. Rates are usually higher than a traditional lender. Many communities have RLFs that are underutilized.
- Alternatives– Private loans, Bank loans
- Website– http://mtfinanceonline.com/brdrevolvingloanfunds.mcpx
- Locations– Statewide (see list for those available in your area)
- Details– A number of communities throughout Montana have revolving loan funds available. Requirements vary.
- Contact- See list on Dept. of Commerce website.
More below…
- Montana Technology Innovation Partnership (MTIP)
- SBIR/STTR Matching Funds Program
- Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund Program (BSTF)
- Primary Sector Workforce Training Grant (WTG) Program
- Montana International Marketing Assistance Grant Program (MIMAP)
- Business Resources Division, Montana Dept. of Commerce
- Description– Money available to fund specific projects and/or qualified expense reimbursement programs.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $25- 250K
- Typical Amount– $5K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product live Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Meet program criteria Have enough funds to pay expenses before drawing reimbursements
- Tips for Success– Work with an organization with relationships in Helena or DC that knows the ins and outs of these programs. (See also list under Small Business Loans.) Be prepared for a lot of paperwork and have your personal and business finances in order, digital copies of tax returns and statements, business plans, financial pro-formas etc. ready. Note that most programs are reimbursement of qualified expenses so you must already have the money to spend, then do the paperwork and submit for reimbursement. Grants can also be tied to outcomes, such as job creation. A nice way to cheaply leverage existing funds if you don’t mind the administrative overhead.
- Alternatives– Loans
- Website– http://businessresources.mt.gov/MTIP
- Locations– 301 S Park Ave, Helena MT (statewide)
- Phone– (406) 924-8440
- Details– MTIP is a Montana Department of Commerce initiative to promote technology commercialization and assist businesses in securing seed capital for research and development. Offers technical assistance for SBIR and STTR proposals.
- Contact Person– Christie Bell, SBIR/STTR Specialist, TechLink
- Description– Money available to fund specific projects and/or qualified expense reimbursement programs.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $25- 250K
- Typical Amount– $5K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product live Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Meet program criteria Have enough funds to pay expenses before drawing reimbursements
- Tips for Success– Work with an organization with relationships in Helena or DC that knows the ins and outs of these programs. (See also list under Small Business Loans.) Be prepared for a lot of paperwork and have your personal and business finances in order, digital copies of tax returns and statements, business plans, financial pro-formas etc. ready. Note that most programs are reimbursement of qualified expenses so you must already have the money to spend, then do the paperwork and submit for reimbursement. Grants can also be tied to outcomes, such as job creation. A nice way to cheaply leverage existing funds if you don’t mind the administrative overhead.
- Alternatives– Loans
- Website– http://businessresources.mt.gov/MSMFP
- Locations– 301 S Park Ave, Helena MT (statewide)
- Phone– (406) 841-2760
- Details– SBIR/STTR 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 $60,000 are available on a yearly basis.
- Contact Person– Dave Desch, Executive Director
- Description– Money available to fund specific projects and/or qualified expense reimbursement programs.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $25- 250K
- Typical Amount– $5K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product live Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Meet program criteria Have enough funds to pay expenses before drawing reimbursements
- Tips for Success– Work with an organization with relationships in Helena or DC that knows the ins and outs of these programs. (See also list under Small Business Loans.) Be prepared for a lot of paperwork and have your personal and business finances in order, digital copies of tax returns and statements, business plans, financial pro-formas etc. ready. Note that most programs are reimbursement of qualified expenses so you must already have the money to spend, then do the paperwork and submit for reimbursement. Grants can also be tied to outcomes, such as job creation. A nice way to cheaply leverage existing funds if you don’t mind the administrative overhead.
- Alternatives– Loans
- Website– http://businessresources.mt.gov/BSTF
- Locations– 301 S Park Ave, Helena MT (statewide)
- Phone– (406) 841-2250
- Details– BSTF Program provides grants to assist companies creating net new jobs with job training costs. Businesses may apply for up to $5,000 per new qualifying employee for eligible costs associated with training or up to $7,500 per net new employee in a high poverty area.
- Contact Person– Annmarie Robinson, Section Manager
- Description– Money available to fund specific projects and/or qualified expense reimbursement programs.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $25- 250K
- Typical Amount– $5K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product live Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Meet program criteria Have enough funds to pay expenses before drawing reimbursements
- Tips for Success– Work with an organization with relationships in Helena or DC that knows the ins and outs of these programs. (See also list under Small Business Loans.) Be prepared for a lot of paperwork and have your personal and business finances in order, digital copies of tax returns and statements, business plans, financial pro-formas etc. ready. Note that most programs are reimbursement of qualified expenses so you must already have the money to spend, then do the paperwork and submit for reimbursement. Grants can also be tied to outcomes, such as job creation. A nice way to cheaply leverage existing funds if you don’t mind the administrative overhead.
- Alternatives– Loans
- Website– http://businessresources.mt.gov/WTG
- Locations– 301 S Park Ave, Helena MT (statewide)
- Phone– (406) 841-2250
- Details– WTG Program provides grant assistance to primary sector businesses that are creating new jobs and have a need to train the new employees. Primary sector businesses are defined as those having 50% or more of their sales outside Montana. Could receive a grant up to $5,000 for a full-time job and $2,500 for a part-time job to cover necessary and direct costs of training.
- Contact Person– Annmarie Robinson, Section Manager
- Description– Money available to fund specific projects and/or qualified expense reimbursement programs.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $25- 250K
- Typical Amount– $5K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product live Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Meet program criteria Have enough funds to pay expenses before drawing reimbursements
- Tips for Success– Work with an organization with relationships in Helena or DC that knows the ins and outs of these programs. (See also list under Small Business Loans.) Be prepared for a lot of paperwork and have your personal and business finances in order, digital copies of tax returns and statements, business plans, financial pro-formas etc. ready. Note that most programs are reimbursement of qualified expenses so you must already have the money to spend, then do the paperwork and submit for reimbursement. Grants can also be tied to outcomes, such as job creation. A nice way to cheaply leverage existing funds if you don’t mind the administrative overhead.
- Alternatives– Loans
- Website– http://www.exportmontana.com/MontanaInternationalMarketingAssistanceGrant/
- Locations– 301 S Park Ave, Helena MT (statewide)
- Phone– (406) 841-2783
- Details– The Montana International Marketing Assistance Program (MIMAP) is a state-federal partnership providing financial assistance to qualified Montana small businesses for international marketing efforts in beginning exporting or market expansion.
- Description– Money available to fund specific projects and/or qualified expense reimbursement programs.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $25- 250K
- Typical Amount– $5K-1M
- Prerequisites– Product live Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Meet program criteria Have enough funds to pay expenses before drawing reimbursements
- Tips for Success– Work with an organization with relationships in Helena or DC that knows the ins and outs of these programs. (See also list under Small Business Loans.) Be prepared for a lot of paperwork and have your personal and business finances in order, digital copies of tax returns and statements, business plans, financial pro-formas etc. ready. Note that most programs are reimbursement of qualified expenses so you must already have the money to spend, then do the paperwork and submit for reimbursement. Grants can also be tied to outcomes, such as job creation. A nice way to cheaply leverage existing funds if you don’t mind the administrative overhead.
- Alternatives– Loans
- Website– http://businessresources.mt.gov/Finance
- Locations– 301 S Park Ave, Helena MT (statewide)
- Phone– (406) 841-2730
- Details– Many grant and loan programs available through the State of Montana in addition to those listed here.
- Contact Person– Sean Becker, Division Administrator
More below…
- Dorsey & Whitney LLP
- University of Montana Office of Technology Transfer
- Montana State University Technology Transfer Office
- Description– Companies can license their intellectual property such as a technology, copyright, or trademark to others in exchange for an agreed payment (fee or royalty).
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0 and up
- Typical Amount– Varies
- Prerequisites– Proven product or intellectual property Experienced attorney and/or tech transfer advisor
- Tips for Success– Keep good records. Be diligent about IP enforcement. Navigate exclusivity carefully.
- Website– https://www.dorsey.com/locations/missoula
- Location– Millenium Building, 125 Bank Street, Missoula MT
- Phone– (406) 721-6025
- Details– Dorsey has over 500 lawyers and a similar number of staff located in 19 offices. Jack Manning is head of the Missoula office. Kymra Archibald worked in software licensing in Silicon Valley before joining Dorsey.
- Contact Person– Jack Manning, Kymra Archibald, J.D., MBA, Attorneys
- Description– Companies can license their intellectual property such as a technology, copyright, or trademark to others in exchange for an agreed payment (fee or royalty).
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0 and up
- Typical Amount– Varies
- Prerequisites– Proven product or intellectual property Experienced attorney and/or tech transfer advisor
- Tips for Success– Keep good records. Be diligent about IP enforcement. Navigate exclusivity carefully.
- Website– http://www.umt.edu/research/innovation/
- Location– University Hall 116, UM Campus Missoula, MT
- Phone– (406) 243-2148
- Details– Office assists with licensing agreements, confidentiality agreements (CDA), and material transfer agreements (MTA) at the University of Montana.
- Contact Person– Scott Whittenberg, UM VP of Research
- Description– Companies can license their intellectual property such as a technology, copyright, or trademark to others in exchange for an agreed payment (fee or royalty).
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $0 and up
- Typical Amount– Varies
- Prerequisites– Proven product or intellectual property Experienced attorney and/or tech transfer advisor
- Tips for Success– Keep good records. Be diligent about IP enforcement. Navigate exclusivity carefully.
- Website– http://tto.montana.edu
- Location– 2310 University Way, Office 139A, MSU Campus, (just south of the MSU Track and Field Complex) Bozeman, MT
- Phone– (406) 994-7483
- Details-In addition to commercializing inventions, the TTO manages licensed technologies and agreements between MSU and industry which contain intellectual property provisions.
- Contact Person– Dr. Daniel Juliano, Associate Director of Technology Licensing
More below…
- Next Frontier Capital
- Arthur Ventures
- Ignition Partners
- Voyager Capital
- Sequoia Capital
- Madrona Venture Group
- Access Venture Partners
- Grayhawk Capital
- Flywheel Ventures
- Dorsey & Whitney LLP
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.nextfrontiercapital.com
- Location– 201 S. Wallace Ave., #B3F, Bozeman MT
- Phone– (406) 209-9743
- Details– $20 million venture capital fund seeking Montana technology investment opportunities in industries like software, healthcare, biotech, and optics/photonics with high intellectual property values. Launched in May 2015, Next Frontier Capital hopes to invest in 10 to 12 Montana companies over the next three to four years in amounts ranging from $200,000 to $1,500,000.
- Contact Person– Will Price, Managing Partner
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.arthurventures.com
- Location– Loretta Building, 210 Broadway N, Suite 301 Fargo, ND
- Phone– (701) 232-3521
- Details– Venture capital fund targeting business-to-business (B2B) software companies, mainly traditional SaaS and cloud-enabled tools and solutions. Some investments in healthcare IT and AG tech. Seed and early stage. The amount ranges from a few hundred thousand dollars to a few million dollars. James and Doug Burgum keynotes at Montana High Tech Jobs Summit in 2015.
- Contact Person– James Burgum, Co-founder and Managing Partner
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.ignitionpartners.com
- Location– 350 106th Ave NE, 1st Floor, Bellvue WA
- Phone– (425) 709-0772
- Details– Venture capital fund investing in early-stage (seed, Series A, occasional Series B) business to business software companies. Like Mobile Enterprise, Internet of Things, Micro Services/Containers, Vertical SAAS, FinTech, Software Defined Networking, Hybrid Clouds, and Blockchain Applications. John Connors is former CFO of Microsoft, UM alum, and native of Miles City. Kellan Carter is a UM alum and board member of MADE.
- Contact Person– John Connors, Managing Partner / Kellan Carter, Associate
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.voyagercapital.com
- Location– 719 Second Avenue, Seattle WA
- Phone– (206) 438-1800
- Details– Voyager Capital is a $420 million information technology venture capital firm that invests primarily in early stage, digital media, software and services, wireless and Smart Grid companies. Curtis Feeny was a speaker at the 2015 Montana High Tech Jobs Summit.
- Contact Person– Curtis Feeny, Managing Director
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.sequoiacap.com
- Location– Suite 1400, Menlo Park, CA
- Phone– (650) 854-3927
- Details– Sequoia is a venture capital firm investing between $100,000 and $1 million in seed stage, between $1 million and $10 million in early stage, and between $10 million and $100 million in growth stage companies. Michael Goguen is a part-time Whitefish resident and philanthropist, Glacier Startup Weekend supporter, and a keynote at the 2015 Montana High Tech Jobs Summit.
- Contact Person– Michael Goguen, Managing Partner
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.madrona.com
- Location– 999 3rd Ave, Seattle WA
- Phone– (206) 674-3000
- Details– Venture capital fund investing in seed and early stage technology companies in the Pacific Northwest. Interested in looking at Montana deals.
- Contact Person– Matt McIlwain, Managing Director
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.accessvp.com
- Location– 8787 Turnpike Dr, Westminster, CO
- Phone– (303) 426-8899
- Details– Access Venture Partners is a venture capital fund investing in early-stage technology companies. Most investments local but will consider companies across the U.S. Will invest up to $2M in companies in early growth stage, up to $350k as part of a syndicated investment group in early stage, in select cases, will make investments of up to $2.5M in companies in expansion round.
- Contact Person– Brian Wallace, Managing Director
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– http://www.grayhawkcapital.us/
- Location– 5050 N. 40th Street, Suite 380, Phoenix AZ
- Phone– (602) 956- 8700
- Details– Grayhawk is a $70 million venture capital fund investing in Mobile Computing, Cloud/SaaS, Enterprise Software, Security, Finance, Business and Healthcare IT, mainly in the Southwest.
- Contact Person– Brian Smith, Managing Partner / Sherman Chu, Managing Partner
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.flywheelventures.com/
- Location– 9204 San Mateo Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM
- Phone– (505) 821- 3480
- Details– Flywheel Ventures is a seed and early-stage venture capital firm focused on information technology and urban systems.Like companies with solutions that address key global challenges in digital services, infrastructure technology, energy technology, and water technology. The Fund targets initial investments of $50K-$1M in new and emerging innovations and entrepreneurs arising out of top R&D organizations. Made previous investments in Montana and attend Sen. Baucus’ Montana Jobs Summit in 2013.
- Contact Person– -Trevor Loy, General Partner
- Description– Professional investors contributing other people’s money (limited partners or LPs) in exchange for equity.
- Business Stage– Early / Growth Rev: $100K- 5M
- Typical Amount– $1-30M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan w/ scalable sales model Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Pitch deck / existing relationship Very big total addressable market Willing to become C- Corp (they prefer Delaware)
- Tips for Success– Start relationship early on and provide regular updates as you achieve milestones. In the Rockies Region, VCs don’t have enough competition to require them to make immediate decisions. Expect they’ll want to see progress and get to know you and you’ll have to build up some tension to force them off the fence (really taking off, other investors advancing, etc.) This is time-consuming and you are better served to dedicate time to advance product and grow sales. Know your key business drivers and be able to chart positive progress. Know exactly how an investment of $1 doing X yields $3+ in Y so they can easily see how you’ll scale by pouring fuel on the fire.
- Website– https://www.dorsey.com/locations/missoula
- Location– Millennium Building, 125 Bank Street, Missoula MT
- Phone– (406) 721- 6025
- Details– Jack Manning is a partner in Dorsey’s Venture Capital and Emerging Companies and Mergers and Acquisitions groups, and is the Manager of the Missoula office.
- Contact Person– Jack Manning, Attorney
More below…
- Description– Leverage your venture capital and expand your business giving up less equity.
- Business Stage– Growth / Later / Mez Rev: $1M- 10M
- Typical Amount– $500K- 10M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Existing venture investment
- Tips for Success– Possibly better for capital-intensive companies that have a lot of assets.
- Location– Bozeman, MT
- Details– John O’Donnell was previously the founder and executive director of the Tech Ranch business incubator in Bozeman and now works in Venture Capital & Private Equity.
- Contact Person– John O’Donnell, Managing Partner
- Phone– (406) 581- 8779
- Email– johnodonnell.mt@gmail.com
- Description– Leverage your venture capital and expand your business giving up less equity.
- Business Stage– Growth / Later / Mez Rev: $1M- 10M
- Typical Amount– $500K- 10M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Business plan Business formed with bank acct Experienced attorney Customer commitments and/or existing revenues Strong financial modeling Existing venture investment
- Tips for Success– Possibly better for capital-intensive companies that have a lot of assets.
- Location– Bay Area with Denver Offices
- Details– Venture Capital And Private Equity Banking
- Website– http://www.svb.com/
- Contact Person– Mark Thylin, Managing Director (Rocky Mountain)
- Phone– (303) 410- 3415
More below…
- Description– Initial Public Offering. Offer company stock for sale. Lower volume market/deal size. Expansion capital and/or liquidity event for existing shareholders.
- Business Stage– Growth / Later Rev: $1-10M
- Typical Amount– $1-20M
- Prerequisites– Proven product Experienced attorney Growing revenues & addressable market Strong financial modeling Existing venture investment C Corp (can offer different classes of stock)
- Description– Initial Public Offering. Offer company stock for sale on public market typically underwritten by investment bank. Can fuel expansion or aquisition capital and/or provide liquidity event for existing shareholders.
- Business Stage– Later / Mezzanine Rev: $25- 100M
- Typical Amount– $50-500M
- Prerequisites– Proven product & exec team Experienced attorney and investment banker Profitability Growing revenues & addressable market Strong financial modeling C Corp (can offer different classes of stock)
- Tips for Success– Plan on being at $50M-$75M in revenue with a plan to get to $150M in revenue before considering an IPO. Montana High Tech Business Alliance member companies with recent IPOs include RightNow Technologies and Workiva in Bozeman.
- Location– Millennium Building, 125 Bank Street, Missoula MT
- Details– Dorsey has over 500 lawyers and a similar number of staff located in 19 offices. Jack Manning is a partner in Dorsey’s Venture Capital and Emerging Companies and Mergers and Acquisitions groups, and head of the Missoula office.
- Website– https://www.dorsey.com/locations/missoula
- Contact Person– Jack Manning, Attorney
- Phone– (406) 721- 6025