Economic and Business Research

The Flathead Valley Center for Business Information and Research was formally established in January, 2001 through the vision and financial generosity of 1st Interstate Bank. The Center regularly participates in the annual Montana Outlook Conference held by the University of Montana Bureau of Business and Economic Research, in addition to the annual Flathead Valley Economic Forecast.

The Center provides a diverse array of applied economic research to local businesses, government and civic groups. As an information clearinghouse, the Center provides a venue whereby civic leaders, business and interested parties may obtain economic statistics on the local economy. Consultancy services are also offered to businesses interested in specific business applications.

Specific objectives of the Center are twofold.

  1. to advance basic and applied research in business and economics as it pertains to the local and state economies,
  2. to promote the availability and improve the quality of business and economic information in the local economy.