Who We Are
Located in our office in downtown Kalispell, Montana West Economic Development is a nonprofit organization staffed by passionate professionals who connect businesses to valuable resources and relationships.
We are supported by business and governments to deliver business resources to Flathead County and the communities of Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Lakeside, Kalispell, Somers, and Whitefish. Montana West collaborates with business professionals, entrepreneurs, developers, governments, and community organizations to strengthen the Flathead’s business and lifestyle assets.
Each year Montana West Economic Development identifies key strategic priorities, which are further developed into the Strategic Plan for the organization.
Our Staff
Our Leadership
Through LPL, Don is able to offer clients access to non-proprietary products. Don’s nearly 40 years of industry knowledge and expertise, coupled with his extensive educational background, affords him the ability to understand a client’s unique financial goals and wishes and offer diverse products and services to provide individual, comprehensive, financial planning.
Don’s CFP® designation coupled with two Master’s Degrees and extensive training carries Don to a more significant level of wealth and financial planning expertise. He has a gift of explaining even the most complex concepts simply – a skill that adds tremendous value to all he interacts with.
Don is a dedicated business owner, husband to his wife Leslie, father and grandfather to their 2 sons and wives and 3 grandsons. Don goes out of his way to make sure his family, clients, and friends are well cared for and brings this same dedication as the appointed Chairman of MWED.
Kalispell Regional Healthcare are is a general medical and surgical hospital in Kalispell MT, with 25 beds. A community-based hospital, Kalispell Regional Healthcare believes in supporting and partnering with area service organizations and first-responders to help strengthen the health and wellbeing of their patients.
Jason is a dedicated, active community member – not only is he the MWED Board’s Vice Chairman, he currently serves as the Treasurer of the CASA for Kids Board, and also volunteers his time coordinating the Northwest Regional Mathcounts competition.
Jason is married with two kids and he and his family share an enthusiasm for the beauty that the Flathead Valley offers by enjoying outdoor activities such as skiing, camping and boating.
Dennis’ time spent serving his country while in the U.S. Air Force and on various boards has made him a valued member of the communities he has lived in, especially the Flathead Valley. Dennis and his wife enjoy outdoor activities and spending time with their adult sons and family – especially their grandchildren.
Glacier Bank has been a stalwart financial institution serving the Flathead Valley for decades. On the receiving end of many awards over the years, its reputation for soundness and stability has kept it repeatedly ranked in the top 10% in the nation for financial strength. Glacier Bank has consistently grown over the years, establishing several convenient locations across the Flathead Valley all while maintaining the small town feel that its customers have come to expect and appreciate.
Director of Imaging Services
2019 Board of Directors
Our Relationship with Flathead County Economic Development Authority
Flathead County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) is Flathead County’s strategy to prepare for economic development opportunities that might arise and require investment. FCEDA consists of a seven member board of directors who are appointed by the County Commissioners. Montana West Economic Development has a contract with FCEDA to provide professional staffing, management, and execution of an economic development program for Flathead County. Joining forces, the collaboration creates efficiencies for budgets, personnel, and communication. Find more information about FCEDA at their website, www.flatheadcountyeda.com.