Erik Caseres - Coldwell Banker Commercial CBS

Investing in Billings, Montana

A Bullish Outlook for Small Business Owners and Investors

BIG SKY BIZ JOURNAL

Erik Caseres

1/9/20253 min read

Investing in Billings, Montana: A Bullish Outlook for Small Business Owners and Investors

Erik Caseres - 1/8/25

Billings, Montana, is emerging as a hub for economic growth, thanks to transformative infrastructure and educational projects. For investors and small business owners, this growth represents a golden opportunity to capitalize on the region’s expanding economy. Below, is a highlight of the key projects and their long-term benefits.

Key Economic Drivers in Billings

Intermountain Health Hospital ($1 Billion Project)

  • Construction Impact:

    • High-paying jobs for general contractors, laborers, electricians, and specialists.

    • Significant economic boost during the construction phase.

  • Long-Term Benefits:

    • Creation of healthcare jobs for medical professionals, administrative staff, and support services.

    • Potential to attract patients from neighboring states, solidifying Billings as a regional healthcare hub.

MSU School of Nursing Building

  • Addressing Nationwide Nursing Shortages:

    • Training much-needed healthcare professionals for Montana.

    • Enhancing the healthcare workforce to support Billings’ growing infrastructure.

  • Economic Ripple Effect:

    • Attracting students, faculty, and healthcare providers.

    • Boosting local businesses and creating job opportunities in education and healthcare sectors.

RVU Veterinary Medical School

  • Meeting Agricultural Needs:

    • First veterinary school in Montana, addressing the state’s agricultural reliance on veterinary professionals.

    • Creation of long-term jobs in academia and veterinary services.

  • Catalyst for Innovation:

    • Driving advancements in animal health, agribusiness, and research.

    • Boosting the agricultural sector through a skilled workforce.

National Guard Training Facility

  • Construction Phase:

    • Significant economic activity, including job creation and materials procurement.

  • Long-Term Benefits:

    • Employment opportunities for military personnel and administrative staff.

    • Increased demand for housing and services, benefitting local businesses.

Westend Water Treatment Facility

  • Resilience and Security:

    • $68 million public works project ensuring a stable water supply.

    • Protection against natural and manmade emergencies.

  • Economic Stability:

    • Supporting Billings’ growth by securing essential infrastructure.

State-of-the-Art Ice Arena

  • Sports Tourism:

    • $12 million ice arena with 3,000 seating capacity.

    • Expected to attract hockey events and sports tourism, benefitting local businesses.

  • Community Asset:

    • Recreational opportunities for residents.

    • Multi-purpose indoor courts and soccer fields adding value to the Amend Park Recreation Campus.

Downtown Marriott Hotel

  • First in 45 Years:

    • Seven-story, $40 million development with 140 rooms.

    • Replacing the Rockman Building, boosting downtown’s appeal.

  • Economic Impact:

    • Job creation during construction and in hospitality services.

    • Attracting visitors and revitalizing the downtown area.

Why Invest in Billings?

Skilled Workforce Expansion

  • Projects will draw healthcare professionals, veterinary specialists, military trainers, and academic personnel.

  • Long-term development of a highly skilled local workforce.

Increased Spending & Business Growth

  • Influx of employees, students, and visitors driving demand for:

    • Housing

    • Retail

    • Food services

    • Local businesses

  • Strong multiplier effect boosting the local economy.

Attracting Talent & Investment

  • Large-scale projects positioning Billings as a regional hub for:

    • Healthcare

    • Education

    • Defense

    • Agriculture

  • Potential for sustained growth and diversification.

Real Estate & Housing Demand

  • Increased need for:

    • Temporary housing for construction workers.

    • Long-term housing for employees relocating to Billings.

  • Opportunities for residential and commercial real estate investments.

Resources for Further Information

https://news.intermountainhealth.org/st-vincent-regional-hospital-unveils-design-for-new-care-site/

https://www.yellowstoneicefoundation.org/

https://amazingarchitecture.com/news/montana-state-university-announces-five-new-nursing-education-buildings

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_v3BZNIbijA

https://www.billingsmtpublicworks.gov/303/2026-West-End-Water-Treatment-Plant

https://www.ktvq.com/news/local-news/billings-city-council-approves-city-hall-sale-paves-way-for-new-hotel

Conclusion

With its robust lineup of infrastructure and educational projects, Billings is paving the way for sustained economic growth. For investors and small business owners, now is the time to seize the opportunities presented by these transformative developments. Whether you’re interested in real estate, retail, or service industries, Billings offers a thriving environment to grow and succeed.

Join the momentum and be a part of Billings’ bright future.