HELENA, Mont. — Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen continued honoring and recognizing Montana businesses this week during her presentation at the Montana Chamber of Commerce 2024 Business Days at the Capitol.
Secretary Jacobsen highlighted the record number of new businesses registered with the state in 2023, an announcement she made with Governor Greg Gianforte at Helena’s Copperline Smashburgers! on Wednesday morning. Owner Chris Abrego’s burger shop was one of the 59,424 businesses registered in 2023.
“We’re here to serve our new and old businesses alike – customer service is our No. 1 priority for the most tenured businesses as well,” said Secretary Jacobsen, “and I was told we have a few of those businesses in attendance at the Business Days at the Capitol this week. It’s a significant milestone for a business to celebrate one anniversary, but these businesses have celebrated more than 100, and we want to recognize them.”
Secretary Jacobsen acknowledged Benefis Hospitals, which has a registration date of 1897. She also honored the Billings Chamber of Commerce, which was registered with the state in 1918.
“What an incredible accomplishment to have been on the business scene in Montana for more than 100 years,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Thank you for doing business in Montana.”
Secretary Jacobsen also recognized both the University of Montana and Montana State University which were each founded in the 1890s.
“Both universities have played a significant role in their communities and the state. Thank you for educating our business leaders in Montana,” said Secretary Jacobsen.