Bio-Product Innovation Program

Encouraging the development of bio-fuels and bio-products is part of Governor Brian Schweitzer’s economic development plans for Montana. To fulfill the technical assistance and training needs of these new business ventures, this program was created by the Montana Department of Agriculture in September 2006 and is funded by Workforce Innovation in Regional Development (WIRED) Montana’s Agro-Energy Plan.

The program provides customized training and technical assistance in bio-product business development to existing businesses, entrepreneurs evaluating new business opportunities and members of cooperatives pursuing bio-product and related agricultural business opportunities in 32 counties of Central and Eastern Montana.

The centers provide training, coaching, and technical assistance in:

• Conducting and preparing business feasibility studies, business plans, market research, marketing plans, operating plans, and strategic plans.
• Developing written job descriptions.
• Developing training programs for existing, new, or potential employees.
• Training to educate business professionals and entrepreneurs on industry dynamics and technology of specific bio-product industries.
• Evaluating existing and developing technologies.

Regional centers and contacts are listed on the right. Renewable energy workshops and other training opportunities are listed on the WIRED Montana’s Agro-Energy Plan calendar.

For additional information about the Bio-Product Innovation Program, contact:

Tracey Jette
Network Coordinator
MSU-Northern Business Incubator, Rm 104L
Havre, MT 59501
406-262-5923
agr@mt.gov