Support grows for new Montana businesses

In February, the University of Montana will officially launch its new Blackstone LaunchPad program http://www.blackstone.com/citizenship/the-blackstone-charitable-foundation/entrepreneurship-initiative/blackstone-launchpad . Taken alone, this is big news for economic development in Missoula. I expect this program will be a powerful driver of economic activity in our region for years to come.

Modeled after a successful program at the University of Miami, LaunchPad exists to nurture entrepreneurship by providing a network of venture coaches and other support to students and, in the future, alumni of UM and Montana State University. LaunchPad aims to facilitate the creation of some 150 new businesses in Montana over the next five years.

One way that LaunchPad distinguishes itself from university entrepreneurship programs elsewhere is that it is open to all students, regardless of major. The idea is to foster a campuswide ethos of creativity and professional self-determination.

James Grunke

Full Story: http://missoulian.com/business/montana-inbusiness/columns/james-grunke-support-grows-for-new-businesses/article_dfd4ca38-7160-11e3-a752-0019bb2963f4.html