HELENA, Mont. — Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen today announced that more than 6,000 new businesses registered in Montana in January, marking a strong start to 2026 and continuing the state’s trend of historic business growth. Building on a record-breaking 2025, Montana has once again surpassed 6,000 registrations in a single month, reflecting the confidence of entrepreneurs and small business owners across the Treasure State.
“Montanans are wasting no time in 2026 – they’re launching new ventures, expanding existing operations, and investing in their hometowns,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Surpassing 6,000 new registrations again this month shows that our strong economy and business-friendly policies are working for Montana families and communities.”
Many types of businesses fueling growth
January’s more than 6,000 new filings reflect broad growth across many types of businesses vital to Montana’s economy. New registrations include everything from construction and trade businesses to tourism-related ventures, agricultural operations, retail shops, and professional and technology services.
“From Main Street shops and construction companies to ag producers and service providers, Montana’s entrepreneurs are finding opportunity in every region of our state,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Our office is committed to cutting red tape and making it as simple, secure, and efficient as possible for them to register and keep doing business in Montana.”
Building on record-breaking recent years
January’s more than 6,000 new business registrations build on consecutive record-setting years, during which Montana saw historic totals of new filings. Under Secretary Jacobsen’s leadership, multiple months have topped 5,000 and even 6,000 registrations, highlighting Montana’s sustained momentum and continued appeal for doing business in the state.
Pro-business initiatives from the Secretary of State’s Office – including reduced business registration fees, streamlined online services, and the continued waiver of annual report filing fees – have helped lower costs and made it easier for Montanans to start and maintain a business.
Resources for Montana entrepreneurs
Montanans looking to start or grow a business can access step-by-step resources, search existing records, and file online through the Secretary of State’s business portal. Businesses registered in Montana can also take advantage of waived annual report fees during the current filing periods (January 1–April 15), helping keep more capital in local communities and supporting further investment.
For more information or to start a business, visit sosmt.gov/business.