Billings Chamber of Commerce Report 2019

Elections Matter

Public Safety

Mayor

Catalyst. Convener. Champion.

2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 2020 PLAN OF ACTION

Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives

2015 Chamber of the Year

FROM THE CHAMBER on the challenges, hold each other accountable, understand the opportunities for growth and advancement, and to make sure we elect the right people who will lead us into the future.

John Brewer, CAE President and CEO

The Billings Chamber continues to push forward a number of transformational strategic priorities for our community. While you will recognize some issues that continue to be addressed from previous years, we hope you’ll appreciate the new projects, the expansion to existing projects, and the overall efforts to enhance the Billings community for businesses.

Brian Brown, First Interstate Bank Chamber Board Chair

Billings is a healthy and strong community…but we can be more. We must be attentive to remaining competitive and diligent in our responsibility to lead. The Chamber’s mission is to make Billings stronger and better. At the core of success and the heart of our priorities this year are: finding solutions to our growing public safety concerns; providing education options for seasoned workers and young children (our future workforce); electing business friendly candidates for public office; and supporting community amenities that retain our residents and recruit new families.

We have the right ingredients for success and the commitment to the long-game needed to see the community through the next transformation. We never take for granted that we represent each of our 1,200 business members who employ nearly 50,000 people.

Your support of the Billings Chamber allows us the resources to move Billings forward and help your business grow. Thank you for joining us in this mission.

How do we move the needle as a community to succeed in these areas? Each of these issues, and the resulting success or failure, is all of our responsibility. It’s our responsibility to become educated

PARTNERS in progress BIG SKY LEVEL

GRANITE PEAK LEVEL

BEARTOOTH LEVEL Albertsons

Opportunity Bank

Altana Federal Credit Union

PayneWest Insurance

Holiday Station Stores

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Floberg Real Estate Company

Rocky Mountain Bank

MSU Billings

Big Sky Economic Development

Spectrum Reach

Northwestern Energy

Big Sky Steel & Salvage

The Western Sugar Cooperative

Computers Unlimited

Underriner Honda

U.S. Bank

Crowley Fleck PLLP

Vertex Consulting Group

Denny Menholt Chevrolet

Walmart

Diamond B Companies

Walmart, Heights

Dovetail Designs & Millwork Inc.

Western Security Bank

The Ashley Delp Team DiA Events

Entre Technology Services ExxonMobil Refining & Supply Co. Gainan’s Flowers & Garden Center Kampgrounds of America Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. Northern Hotel

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Phillips 66 Sanctuary LLC

ORGANIZATIONALCORE (GUIDING CONCEPTS) OUR MISSION: To develop a strong business climate and vibrant economy by serving the community in a leadership role thereby enhancing the quality of life.

OUR VISION: To achieve excellence in community leadership and growth.

OUR TEAM PROMISE TO OUR MEMBERS AND THE COMMUNITY: To always look at new and better ways to serve you, to do business and to make Billings a better place to live and work.

Our brand speaks loudly of change, energy and excitement. As a team we will consistently deliver the wow factor; innovative ideas, knowledge, integrity, leadership and laughter. We’re proud of what we do and where we live. Let’s SHOUT it out!

OUR CORE COMPETENCIES: 1. Support business needs including leading local, state and federal legislative issues impacting business and our quality of life; 2. Promote Billings as a preferred destination for visitors, business travelers and sporting events; 3. Provide opportunities for our membership relating to education, networking and value added services and keep you informed.

ORGANIZATAIONS: The Billings Chamber of Commerce manages Visit Billings and Visit Southeast Montana Tourism.

ABOUTUS Catalyst for Business Growth. Convener of Leaders and Influencers. Champion for a Stronger Community.

The Billings Chamber received the highest award that a chamber can receive from the United States Chamber of Commerce: 5-Star Accreditation. Less than 1% of the 3,000 chambers in the U.S. have this designation.

The Chamber has also been recognized with the Chamber of the Year award from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. This prestigious honor is the only

award recognizing the dual role chambers have in leading businesses and communities and is put the Billings Chamber in the top 5 in the nation. We are a non-profit 501(c)6 representing and serving 1,200 members who employ nearly 50,000 people. Your Board consists of community leaders representing small and large businesses and diverse business interests. We are governed by 18 voting members and six ex-officio members who provide expertise in their fields. Your staff consists of 15 professionals who are enthused, engaged in the community and

full of great ideas and energy. The Chamber has strategic management agreements to further the regional travel industry with the Montana Office of Tourism (lodging tax); Billings Tourism Business Improvement District (TBID); and Visit Southeast Montana Tourism (SEMT). We successfully generate and manage $4.7 million budgets including Chamber, Tourism Business Improvement District, Lodging Tax and Visit Southeast Montana budgets.

BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 3

BILLINGS CHAMBER STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

catalyst for business growth.

convener of leaders and influencers.

ELECTIONS MATTER:

PUBLIC SAFETY:

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We’re committed to electing business-friendly candidates who are job creators, problem solvers and community leaders. We will:

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Host education sessions for citizens interested in serving in an elected capacity.

Evaluate candidates in local and state elections by seeking their input on issues of importance to Billings Chamber members and sharing the candidate positions.

Host candidate forums to allow Chamber members to access candidates running for public office.

Consider endorsement of candidates in local and state elections.

Present programs by elected officials to hold these leaders accountable for their votes.

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champion for a thriving community.

Together, we will enhance public safety by working directly with Billings businesses on strategies that will deter criminal activity. We will:

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Launch the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) program as an opportunity for business engagement in public safety.

Monitor and evaluate public safety funding needs as the opportunity arises.

Participate in Yellowstone Substance Abuse Connect.

Spotlight public safety through member communications as a means of educating the membership on current issues.

Monitor issues that contribute to public safety concerns (meth, homelessness, vagrancy, public incapacitation, etc.) while focusing efforts on business to business accountability to lessen criminal ativity and violence.

BILLINGS CHAMBER STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

ONE BIG SKY DISTRICT: The Strategy Partners are committed to the development plan, and the Billings Chamber will focus specifically on Montana Station Convention Center this year. We will: ■

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Continue work with the Strategy Partners (Big Sky Economic Development, Billings Chamber of Commerce, City of Billings, Downtown Billings Partnership, and Visit Billings).

Support work in seeking additional developers interested in the existing development plan.

Support the development of Montana Station Convention Center and build upon the $500+ million tourism economy supporting Yellowstone County.

Develop an action plan for 406 Impact District Legislation ahead of the 2021 legislative session.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT:

The Billings Chamber is the leader in growing and retaining your existing workforce through leadership development programming.

Through programs like Leadership Billings, Trailhead Leadership Academy, Youth Leadership Billings and Billings NextGEN, the Chamber is the premier professional development option in the community.

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AIR SERVICE:

The community celebrated the recent additions of new service with American and Frontier Airlines as well as the facility remodel taking place. The Chamber continues to be a key supporter of both these processes with an eye toward future opportunities for growth. We will: ■

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Chamber programs like NextGEN, Leadership Billings and mentorships support existing talent, increasing retention of talent and helping attract new talent.

BillingsWorks is growing the talent pool in Yellowstone County by working with both K-12 and higher education, promoting internships and marketing Billings as a great place to live and work.

Quality child care is a two-generation workforce concern: children must experience quality care, and parents must have consistent care in order to be productive members of the workforce. The Chamber is exploring these issues and how we can assist in solutions that will positively impact business.

The Billings Chamber actively supports higher education, particularly MSU Billings, City College and Rocky Mountain College. Connecting their degree programs with workforce demands, internship and job shadow opportunities returns graduates ready to hit the ground running upon graduation.

Continue efforts to increase and maintain existing service through direct meetings with airlines.

Support the airport facility renovation.

Educate locally and regionally the need for increasing airplane seats purchased to drive the demand for more flights.

BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 5

2019 HEADLINES ONE BIG SKY DISTRICT:

TRAVEL BLOG EXCHANGE (TBEX): The Visit Billings team hosted 2019 TBEX the largest conference and networking event for travel bloggers, online journalists, content creators, travel brands and insutry professionals, bringing 500 influencers to Billings to explore the region and wrtite about their experiences.

LEGISLATIVE SESSION: Advocated for business with a 74% success rate during the 2019 Session in Helena.

NEXTGEN CELEBRATES 5 YEARS: The premier group for Billings’ emerging leaders celebrated five years of growth and success, boasting 238 active and engaged members.

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#VISITBILLINGS

The vision and plan were both approved by City Council and progress continues as we talk with developers and plan for the 2021 Legislative Session.

406 IMPACT DISTRICT LEGISLATION: This complicated first-time statewide initiative found support from Republicans and Democrats across the state, before narrowly failing.

SPORTS FACILITY FEASIBILITY STUDY: Visit Billings, along with strategic partners executed the Yellowstone County Sports Facility Feasibility Study.

2019 HEADLINES HEALTHY COMMUNITIES:

TRAIL GUIDES (COMMUNITY PRIDE):

Ten chambers across the country were selected to participate in the program designed to help chambers of commerce lead effective and innovative community health initiatives. The Billings Chamber partnered with Healthy By Design and focused our efforts on Employers as Activators of Health.

The visitor experience is the most important part of growing visitation at a destination, making sure travelers feel welcomed and enjoy their stay at Montana’s Trailhead. This program allows local residents to share their pride and learn about their community by getting involved as tourism ambassadors.

ELECTIONS MATTER:

AIR SERVICE:

Our first legislative report card and session summary was developed. We continue to evolve our process for candidate support with input from our membership, Advisory Board and Board of Directors. 65% of our members feel this was helpful in influencing their vote.

2019 LEGISLATIVE VOTINGb REVIEW

A S n a p s h o t o f t h e Vo t i n g R e c o r d o f B i l l i n g s A r e a S t a t e L e g i s l a t o

Celebrated the initiation of Frontier Air service this year and continued high ridership on American Airlines (over 80%) as well as supported the upcoming Terminal Expansion Project.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: Partnered with BillingsWorks and other community stakeholders for the first School District 2 Student Career Fair, supported the successful SD#2 levy; invested in the Rock 31 Entrepreneurial Center; and continued to grow the Chamber’s existing Workforce programs (NextGEN, Leadership Billings, Leadership Academy, Youth Leadership).

BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 7

LEGACY AWARD – STELLA & ZIGGY ZIEGLER

When asked about iconic Billings establishments, you can bet that Stella’s Kitchen and Bakery will be one of the examples shared – and with good reason.

give second chances and first opportunities to so many in need. They have changed lives by giving more than a paycheck, but by giving life lessons and true love.”

Ziggy and Stella invested over 40 years into their downtown establishment, and to this day you’ll find a line out the door to get seated for your weekend breakfast. The Billings Chamber Legacy Award recognizes individuals who consistently demonstrate success in improving the business and economic climate, in addition to the quality of life for residents of Billings, over their lifetime. Through their consistent advocacy for downtown, their habit of offering second chances and their determination to change lives, the Zieglers are tremendously deserving of the 2019 Billings Chamber Legacy Award.

Prior to starting their restaurant, the Ziegler’s owned KOA and Great Harvest Bread franchises. In addition to their many business successes, they are loyal to their mission of giving second chances and offering guidance to those transitioning out of prison and halfway houses. Ziggy is wellknown for his work with prison inmates where he developed a three-day retreat to minister to inmates; something he has done almost monthly for 40 years. As quoted in the Billings Gazette, Ziggy says, “I don’t golf, I don’t fish, I don’t hunt. I go to prison!”

After 40 years of running Stella’s Kitchen & Bakery, Stella and Ziggy retired in August.

Nominated for the award by Eide Bailly and its Partners Jeremy Hauk, Roger Huebner, Ron Yates, and Debbie Potter, the group noted, “Stella and Ziggy are well known for hiring disadvantaged people and providing not only a job, but mentorship, a family atmosphere, and a positive influence. They 8 | BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT

To add to their résumé of service leadership, Ziggy was Yellowstone County Auditor for four years and Yellowstone County Commissioner for 12 years. Stella has served on various community and state-wide boards and leadership committees. The couple is committed to their faith and to education, serving on the Billings Catholic Schools and BACET/BCS Foundation boards. They were instrumental in building the new St. Francis Catholic Elementary School, serving as

honorary chairs of the capital campaign.

The Ziegler’s were nominated for the Billings Chamber Legacy Award, along with a long list of competitive candidates submitted by the chamber board and membership.

Ultimately, the board voted for Stella and Ziggy to receive this honor and the Eide Bailly team summarized the selection of the Ziegler’s for the 2019 Legacy Award perfectly in their nomination, “Ziggy and Stella are a tremendous business success story. However, their success and contributions reach far beyond that of the business world. They have made unbelievable monetary and sweat-equity investments in Billings while donating their time and talents to the community as a whole. Along the way, they have made a difference in the lives of many. They have left a legacy that is truly worthy of recognition.”

Join us in celebrating Stella and Ziggy when they receive the Legacy Award during the Billings Chamber Annual Meeting presented by PayneWest Insurance on September 24th from 11:30 – 1:00 p.m. You can learn more about the event and get your tickets at www.

BillingsChamber.com.

We’re keeping Montana picture-perfect.

FELT, MARTIN, FRAZIER, & WELDON, P.C. Attorneys at Law NorthWestern Energy has invested more than $1 billion

Congratulations to the Billings Area Chamber of Commerce for its efforts and accomplishments in promoting and building our community.

Laurence R. Martin Kenneth S. Frazier Jeffrey A. Weldon Martin S. Smith Mary E. Duncan Kyle A. Moen

in providing more than 60 percent of Montana’s energy through carbon-free resources such as wind and water.

This major investment is part of our ongoing commitment to responsibly power our homes and businesses, protect our environment, and keep our state beautiful now and for future generations.

www.feltmartinlaw.com

(406) 248-7646 2825 3rd Ave N. Suite 100 Billings, MT 59101 BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 9

2019-2020 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Your board consists of community leaders representing small and large businesses and diverse business interests. We are governed by 18 voting members and six ex-officio members who provide expertise in their ďŹ elds.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:

Brian Brown Mike Nelson First Interstate Bank Northern Hotel Chair Chair Elect

DIRECTORS:

Chris Dimock Elation, Inc.

Ginny Hart Residence Inn

by Marriott

Nichole Miles St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation Treasurer

Patrice Elliott Stockman Bank Past Chair

Kolten Knatterud, Territorial Landworks

Lynette Kosovich Rimrock

Julie Seehouse Century 21 Hometown Brokers

Jeremy Vannatta PayneWest Insurance

Doug Miles KULR8 Television

David Mitchell Coldwell Banker Commercial CBS

Sean Lynch 11:11 Presents/ Pub Station/ Yellowstone Valley Brewing

Lisa Perry NorthWestern Energy

John Brewer President/CEO Billings Chamber

Wayne Nelson Stockman Bank

THANK YOU TO OUTGOING BOARD MEMBERS.

Jess Peterson Western Skies Strategies

Deborah Potter Eide Bailly

Dave Worstell Billings Gazette Communications

Mayor Cole City of Billings

Kevin Kooistra Billings Cultural Partners/ Western Heritage Center

Kris Carpenter Sanctuary Spa/Joy of LIving/ Black Dog Coffee House

Denis Pitman Yellowstone County Commission

Brandon Scala Valley Credit Union/Chamber Ambassadors

Casey McGowan PayneWest Insurance and Trailhead Spirits

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS:

Steve Arveschoug Big Sky Economic Development

Chris Kukulski City of Billings

Dan Edelman MSU Billings

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Katy Easton Downtown Billings Alliance

Greg Upham Billings Public Schools

BILLINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE STAFF Your staff consists of fifteen professionals who are enthused, engaged in the community and full of great ideas and energy.

John Brewer, CAE President/CEO

Alyssa Voeltz Visitor Services Manager

Alex Tyson, IOM Executive Director, Visit Billings

Jessica Hart Events Manager

Jennifer Reiser, CCE,IOM Chief Operating Officer

Stefan Cattarin Visit Billings Sales Manager

Kelly McCandless Director; Communications & Workforce Development

Luke Ashmore Visitor Services Assistant

Get the news where you are. Like The Billings Gazette on Facebook.

Brenda Maas Director; Visit Southeast Montana

Daniel J. Brooks Director; Business Advocacy

René Beyl Business Engagement Specialist

Michele Flanagan Member and Southeast Montana Assistant

Megan Stevenson Accountant

Alyson Murnion Marya Pennington Visit Billings Leisure Public Relations Marketing, Sales Manager and Social Media Manager

Congratulations on another outstanding year!

Sign up for The Gazette in your e-mail at

billingsgazette.com

760248-1127 Wicks Lane • 2522 4th Ave. N • 32nd & King Ave. W • www.billingsfcu.org

175 N 27th Street, Suite 1303 Billings, MT 59101 Phone: 406-294-8484 Fax: 406-294-8480 kdhlawfirm.com EXCELLENCEXPERIENCETHICS

1516 Main St. • 2522 4th Ave. N • 990 Grand Ave. • 32nd & King Ave. BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 11

Join us for the first of a new series of events offered by the Billings Chamber of Commerce: Chamber A.M. This quarterly event will focus on the Chamber’s strategic priorities and allows you, our members, to dive deeper into these important topics. Chamber A.M. is proudly presented by Entre Technology Services and supported by the Northern Hotel.

Don’t miss the first of this series on October 31st from 7:30 – 9:00 a.m. at the Northern Hotel. We’ll spotlight our Workforce Development priority with the work we’ve started in Early Childhood Education and feature presenters from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Center for Education and Workforce as well as the Minneapolis Federal Reserve.

The subsequent Chamber A.M. events are planned for the following dates: ■ ■ ■

January 21, 2020 Public Safety April 28, 2020 Topic to be determined June 26, 2020 State of the City and County

ALL OF THE EVENTS ARE $20 AND INCLUDE BREAKFAST. GET YOUR TICKETS FOR ALL CHAMBER A.M. EVENTS AT BILLINGSCHAMBER.COM. 12 | BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT

GROW THROUGH THE CHAMBER The Billings Chamber is a catalyst, a convener and a champion. Here's how your membership works for you when you are able to show up, and when you're not.

LET'S DO THE WORK TOGETHER ATTEND: ■

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LET US DO THE WORK WHILE YOU ARE WORKING ■

Dedicated chamber staff are working to positively impact your business;

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We advocate on your behalf at the local, state and federal level for policies that ensure Billings is an economically competitive and an inviting place to attract the skilled workforce we need;

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What keeps you awake at night? Weaddress your challenges through our strategic priorities;

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We bring over 2 million visitors to Billings who spend $500 million each year in our economy;

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Being a member in the chamber results in a 73% increase in consumer awareness, 80% increase in likelihood consumers will become your customers, and a 68% increase in your local reputation. (Schapiro Group, 2012)

Engage through Connections, Collaborate, Committees and Chamber 101 benefits orientation; Network by attending events like Business After Hours, Ag Tour, Chamber Breakfast, Chamber Open Golf Tournament and more;

DEVELOP YOURSELF AND YOUR TEAM: ■

Leadership growth;

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Professional development;

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NextGEN program for emerging leaders;

EXPOSURE: ■

Grow awareness of your business with business celebration events;

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Advertising, job postings and hot deal opportunities

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Website, e-communications, and LINK magazine to keep you informed;

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Up to $3,800 of FREE advertising in the Billings Gazette, ABC6/Fox4 television, Radio Billings and social media.

Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives

2015 Chamber of the Year

The Billings Chamber staff work with leading national business organizations like the U.S. Chamber and the Association for Chamber of Commerce Executives to bring best practices back to help improve your business.

BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 13

EVENTS BUSINESS AFTER HOURS:

Second Wednesday of each month at a different member business location. Networking, food and beverage, and more in a relaxed, two-hour format.

AG APPRECIATION CELEBRATION:

Celebrating Montana’s #1 industry each January, this event allows our members to invite their ag clients to an evening event with great food, exceptional entertainment, and camaraderie.

CHAMBER BREAKFAST:

This event is held each spring and centers around a remarkable motivational speaker, networking among 1,200+ members, and great fun.

CHAMBER OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT:

Held annually in June, the Chamber Open is an excellent opportunity to grab your colleagues and clients for quality networking on the links.

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ANNUAL AG TOUR:

The Annual Ag Tour, held each June, brings to light some of the areas’ ag businesses and functions. Spend a day touring with experts and learn more about Montana’s #1 industry.

ANNUAL MEETING:

Join us for lunch in September to see what your Chamber is working on, why it’s important and how you can get involved.

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS:

Celebrate the incredible professionals in Billings by nominating them for a Business Excellence award. Categories range from Businessperson of the Year to recognition for Customer Service Excellence. These awards are given out at various events throughout the year, including Annual Meeting, Ag Banquet and the Chamber Breakfast.

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The NextGEN network exists to foster relationships among young professionals, develop business opportunities, support civic involvement, and promote an overall investment in the future of our community. We appreciate the investment of Wells Fargo as our premier program sponsor. If you’d like to get involved with NextGEN, check out www.BillingsNextGEN.com or email Kelly@BillingsChamber.com.

BILLINGS CHAMBER 2019 ANNUAL REPORT | 15

CONNECT WITH US

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Invest in your business GET ENGAGED! and community when you join the Billings The Chamber offersChamber. many different Find detailsand at www.BillingsChamber.com. committees events our members are

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welcome to join. Examples include: ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

Agriculture Committee Trails Committee Shop Small Committee Collaborate Weekly Networking Group NextGEN (additional membership fees)

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Business After Hours (2nd Wednesday each month, $8 to attend) Female Leadership Network Non-profit Organization Network

You can also join us on Facebook at Facebook.com/BillingsChamberofCommerceCVB and Instagram @BillingsChamber.

To start receiving our e-communications, send your e-mail address to Kelly@billingschamber.com. Not a member?

No problem! Send your e-mail address and you can receive our community e-newsletter to stay in touch.

The Chamber does not sell or share our e-mail database. info@billingschamber.com Billings Chamber of Commerce 815 S. 27th St. Billings, MT 59101 406-245-4111

www.BillingsChamber.com www.VisitBillings.com www.SoutheastMontana.com www.BillingsNextGEN.com