HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen was a guest speaker at the 2023 Montana Chamber of Commerce Business Days at the Capitol event on Monday.

Secretary Jacobsen delivered updates on Montana’s business community, including a record number of new business registrations in 2022. Roughly 53,000 new businesses were registered in Montana in the past 12 months.

Secretary Jacobsen also discussed the numerous efficiencies provided by the Secretary of State’s Office, including an online filing system that allows businesses to access their documents and register 24/7, 365 days a year, directly from a phone, tablet, or computer. As a result of the efficiencies, Secretary Jacobsen has cut registration fees for Montana businesses in half, while several other fees have been eliminated entirely.

“I’m proud to say that when I travel throughout the state, I consistently hear directly from Montana businesses that the Secretary of State’s Office provides exceptional customer service,” said Secretary Jacobsen.

“I’ve said it before and it remains true – a key indicator for economic strength in Montana is the continued growth of new businesses, and Montanans are taking advantage of the pro-business and pro-growth climate and chasing their dreams,” Secretary Jacobsen continued. “Whether it’s that new brewery, restaurant, or online store, businesses are the engine behind the economy. Thank you for doing business in Montana.”

The Montana Chamber of Commerce hosts the Business Days at the Capitol each January, coinciding with the start of the legislative session in odd-numbered years and candidate filing in even-numbered years. According to the Chamber’s website, the event “focuses on legislative and public policy issues relevant to business.”

Other speakers at the 2023 Business Days at the Capitol include Governor Greg Gianforte, Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras, legislative leadership, and Montana Chamber President/CEO Todd O’Hair.

More information about the Business Days at the Capitol can be found on the Montana Chamber of Commerce website.