Governor Greg Gianforte has declared this week as Invest in Veterans Week in Montana, urging residents to support businesses owned by veterans throughout the state.
“Invest in Veterans Week is an opportunity to thank the men and women who served our country and continue serving our communities as entrepreneurs and job creators,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Across Montana, veterans are starting businesses, creating good paying jobs, and strengthening local economies. I encourage Montanans to support veteran-owned businesses in their communities this week and throughout the year.”
Alongside the proclamation, Governor Gianforte published a map highlighting 13 veteran-owned businesses from various industries across Montana. These examples are part of a broader effort to recognize the many veteran-led enterprises operating statewide.
Montana has one of the highest rates of veterans per capita nationally. Data from the U.S. Small Business Administration indicates that nearly 5% of business owners in the United States are veterans.
In recent years, policies have been enacted at the state level to further assist veterans and their families. In 2023, Governor Gianforte signed legislation exempting up to half of military retirement pay from state income tax and establishing licensing reciprocity for educators who are military members, spouses, or veterans. The administration also allocated $300 million for expanding behavioral health care services—including programs focused on employment for veterans—and developmental disabilities services across Montana.
The state’s 406 JOBS initiative aims to connect both veterans and other residents with employment opportunities while supporting employers seeking skilled workers.
Invest in Veterans Week is recognized nationwide as a way to highlight the economic role of veteran-owned businesses and promote community support for those who continue serving through entrepreneurship.
