Business Attraction News from the Montana Department of Commerce

Logo courtesy of Montana Department of Labor and Industry.

Montana’s 406 JOBS Strategy: Building the Workforce Behind America’s Outdoor Industry: Guns, Ammo and Gear 

Across the outdoor, firearms, ammunition and gear industry, companies are facing a common challenge: finding and keeping skilled workers while planning for long-term growth. Montana is addressing that challenge head on through a clear, industry-aligned workforce strategy designed to create Montana jobs and support the companies that build America’s outdoor products.

Next week, our team will head to the SHOT Show (Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show) in Las Vegas, meeting with leaders from the firearms, optics, manufacturing and outdoor recreation sectors. Our message is straightforward: Montana is investing in its workforce so companies can grow with confidence.

At the center of this effort is the 406 JOBS Initiative, led by the State Workforce Innovation Board. 406 JOBS is a statewide approach that aligns workforce development, education and economic development around employer needs. Rather than reacting to labor shortages, Montana is building talent pipelines intentionally, focusing on pre-apprenticeships, registered apprenticeships and job training that prepares workers for in-demand, production-focused roles.

For site selectors and small to mid-sized company owners, workforce availability is often the deciding factor when considering expansion or relocation. Montana recognizes that reality. The initiative helps reduce hiring friction, shorten ramp-up time and support companies willing to invest in training and upskilling their workforce, while creating meaningful, future-ready jobs for Montanans.

This strategy aligns naturally with the outdoor products industry. Firearms, ammunition, optics and gear manufacturers rely on skilled machinists, technicians, engineers, logistics professionals and production staff. Montana’s workforce model is designed to support these needs while offering a quality of life that improves retention and long-term stability.

Many companies are finding it increasingly difficult to operate in certain states. Montana is taking a different approach, leading with collaboration, workforce readiness and job creation. As we head to SHOT Show, our focus is clear: to connect the right companies with the right talent and build a workforce that powers Montana’s economy and the outdoor industry’s future.

2025 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. Photo by Montana Department of Commerce.

Pheasant hunters in central Montana. Photo by Montana Department of Commerce.

Montana’s Outdoor Industry Ecosystem

Montana pairs workforce readiness with a strong support network for outdoor, guns, ammo and gear companies, including:

• Advanced manufacturing and machining suppliers
• Top 10 ranked Montana Manufacturing Extension Center
• High-performing Accelerating Procurement Excellence Accelerator for procurement and supply chain support
• Optics, testing and prototyping resources
• Logistics, distribution and B2B service partners
• Workforce and apprenticeship partners aligned to industry needs
  
  

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the Fort Benton Industrial Park on Nov. 18, 2025. Photo courtesy of The River Press.

Fort Benton, Montana: A New Frontier for Industrial Innovation

Fort Benton, Montana, known as the “Birthplace of Montana,” is now home to a forward-looking industrial park designed to attract modern businesses and spark long-term economic growth.

Backed by a $1.7 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and matched by local funds, the $3.4 million project delivers critical infrastructure including transportation access, water, wastewater and stormwater systems. The park is ideal for small to mid-sized businesses such as manufacturing firms, distribution centers and companies working with industrial hemp. 

Unlike many urban areas, Fort Benton offers a streamlined permitting process and flexible zoning, allowing businesses to move quickly from concept to construction. With a strong support network, a culture of innovation and a welcoming business climate, Fort Benton is ready to partner with companies looking to grow in a place where progress meets possibility.

Want to learn more about opportunities in Fort Benton? Please contact the Montana Department of Commerce's business attraction team today!

Great Falls, Montana. Photo by Montana Department of Commerce.

Montana: A Top Destination for Business Growth and Innovation

Montana continues to shine as one of the most competitive states for business taxation, according to the Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index. Its streamlined tax structure, absence of a general sales tax and pro-business policies create an environment where companies can thrive.

These advantages are complemented by Montana’s full conformity with the federal tax code under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, including rolling conformity to the new Section 174A rules that restore immediate expense for domestic research and experimental expenditures.

Not every state automatically follows these federal guidelines. Many require legislative updates or have decoupled provisions, so consulting a tax advisor is essential for multistate operations. Montana’s alignment with federal R&D incentives, combined with its consistently high tax competitiveness ranking, makes it an ideal location for businesses seeking growth and innovation.

Ready to expand or relocate? Contact the Montana Department of Commerce's business attraction team to explore how Montana can help your company maximize savings and accelerate growth.

Information sources:

taxfoundation.org

tax.thomsonreuters.com

cost.org

Montana Department of Commerce

301 S Park Ave, Helena, MT 59620

Contact Us: 406-841-2700

commerce.mt.gov

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