Montana Logs 6,000 New Business Registrations in October

HELENA — Montana registered more than 6,000 new businesses in October 2025, according to data released Friday by the Secretary of State’s office.

The October figures continue a sustained pattern of business formation that has positioned Montana to potentially surpass 2024’s record of nearly 64,000 new business filings. With more than 51,000 registrations recorded by mid-year, the state maintains momentum in what would mark the fifth consecutive year of record business growth.

“I want to welcome the 6,000 new businesses in our state! We are here to serve you,” Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen said in a statement. “Each new business contributes to our economy and represents opportunity, jobs, and a stronger Montana.”

The Secretary of State’s office attributes the continued growth to fee reductions and eliminations implemented during Jacobsen’s tenure. However, business formation trends reflect broader economic factors including Montana’s population growth, regulatory environment, and market conditions that extend beyond any single office’s policies.

October’s numbers align with the accelerating pace Western Montana News has tracked throughout 2025, with monthly registrations consistently exceeding 6,000 since mid-year.

Montana’s business registration system processes applications for various entity types including limited liability companies, corporations, partnerships, and nonprofit organizations. The registrations represent new legal entities but do not necessarily indicate immediate job creation or economic activity.

The state’s business-friendly reputation has attracted national attention, with Montana regularly ranking among the top states for entrepreneurial activity and small business formation in various economic studies.

Business formation data serves as one indicator of economic health, though economists note that registration numbers alone do not capture the full scope of business activity, including sole proprietorships that may not require state registration.

“With over 51,000 registrations recorded by mid-year and these recent months reinforcing an accelerating pace, Montana is well-positioned to surpass the record of nearly 64,000 new business filings set in 2024,” according to the Secretary of State’s office statement.

For entrepreneurs seeking information about business registration requirements and resources, the Secretary of State’s office maintains information at sosmt.gov/business.