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HELENA, Mont. — Montana’s Main Streets, downtowns, and small business communities had reason to celebrate in July as the Secretary of State’s Office recorded more than 8,000 business applications — a new monthly high and an increase from 6,789 applications submitted in July of last year. The record reflects the steady momentum of Montana entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses, and growing companies investing in communities across the state.
“Every application represents a Montana dream taking shape,” Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen said. “From first-time entrepreneurs to established businesses expanding their footprint, this record month speaks to the grit, creativity, and confidence that define Montana’s business community.”
The July milestone adds to a broader story of business growth in Montana. In recent years, the state has continued to draw national attention for its startup climate. WalletHub ranked Montana the 12th best state in America to start a business in 2026, and Entrepreneur Media previously named Montana the best state in the nation for business startups.
That momentum is reflected on across Montana, where business owners are opening storefronts, expanding services, and strengthening the local economies that make communities thrive. Whether it is a new shop in a small town, a growing family business in a rural county, or a startup in one of Montana’s growing cities, each filing represents another step forward for the state’s business landscape.
The Secretary of State’s Business Services Division helps process business filings and supports entrepreneurs as they take the next step in building their businesses in Montana. More information about starting or registering a business is available at sosmt.gov/business.