Bozeman Magazine

The Jabs Business College will host a panel discussion titled “Impact Entrepreneurship in Montana” at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 27, in Jabs Hall 111 on the MSU campus. The event will feature representatives from three Montana companies — HomeStake, West Paw and Headframe Spirits — and is free and open to the public. The featured panelists are: -Jeff Batton, managing partner of Bozeman-based HomeStake, an investment firm that connects Montana investors with Montana businesses. -Amy Hager, people and culture business partner of West Paw, an eco-friendly dog toy manufacturer in Bozeman. -Courtney McKee, CEO of Butte-based Headframe Spirits, a distillery and still manufacturer that puts sustainability at the forefront of operations. The panel will discuss and explore impact entrepreneurship in Montana and beyond. Impact entrepreneurship involves designing and implementing companies and business models that benefit the natural environment and society while maintaining profits. Research has shown that impact-focused businesses can help improve local ecosystems and enhance the social and economic well-being of communities in which they are located. A major topic at the event will be the factors involved in creating impact-focused businesses that both survive and thrive – factors such as funding, community support, competition, business models and perspectives on how to handle growth. Panelists will share the challenges they have faced, what they have learned, what skills and resources have been helpful and their advice for future impact-focused business leaders. The event will begin with an hour-long panel discussion, which will include time for audience questions, followed by a 30-minute reception.