Economic Outlook Seminar 2024

This half-day seminar highlights the latest economic trends for local economies and the state of Montana.

Implementing the Green Energy Transition in Montana: What Would it Take?

In an era where people of different political persuasions seemingly can’t even agree that the sun rises in the East, it is easy for some to discount or dismiss the notion that carbon-emitting energy production is going away. Just as it is a matter of faith with others that an emissions-free world is right around the corner. These swift conclusions gloss over the hard questions the coming years will force us to address: What would it actually take to power the largest economy in the world within the emissions targets set by our leaders, and what is the most effective way to carry that out?

For our 49th annual Economic Outlook Seminar we add an additional question: What would it mean for Montana? Our colder climate and our large geography have combined to make us one of the most energy-dependent states in the country. We are also a state that mines metals and minerals, and the green energy shopping list for what we could produce is potentially a long one.

A dose of reality is what we think the political battles over green energy need, and that’s exactly what the 2024 Economic Outlook Seminars aim to provide. We hope you can join us for what certainly looks to be a spirited, informative discussion.

Why Attend EOS 2024?

BBER economists will present national, state, and local economic forecasts for Montana’s largest communities, and industry experts will give their outlook for the state’s important sectors, including tourism, health care, real estate and housing, agriculture, manufacturing, high-tech and forest products.

Where Can I Attend?

EOS 2024 will travel to nine cities across the state and provide a live webcast for other regions. This year we will offer in-person events in Helena, Great Falls, Missoula, Billings, Bozeman, Butte, Kalispell, Lewistown and Havre.

About the Bureau of Business and Economic Research

The Bureau of Business and Economic Research has been providing information about Montana’s state and local economies for 70 years. Located at the University of Montana, the bureau is the research and public service branch of the College of Business.

On an ongoing basis, the bureau analyzes local, state and national economies; provides annual income, employment and population forecasts; conducts research on manufacturing, forest products, health care and survey research at its on-site call center. It publishes the award-winning Montana Business Quarterly and presents its annual economic outlook seminars in cities throughout Montana each year.