The University of Montana’s Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) serves as a trusted source for accurate, timely, and insightful economic data and analysis. Since its founding in 1948, BBER has been dedicated to monitoring and understanding Montana’s business and economic landscape while contributing valuable research on national and regional trends. With expertise spanning five key areas, economic analysis, forest industry research, manufacturing research, health care industry research, survey research, and publications, BBER provides in-depth studies and forecasts that inform decision-making for businesses, policymakers, and communities.

Over the decades, BBER has grown from a small team into a robust research department with a skilled staff of full-time and part-time professionals. Its work supports thousands of requests each year, offering resources that range from inflation trends and county demographics to industry insights and startup guidance. Through publications like the Montana Business Quarterly and annual economic outlook reports, BBER empowers Montanans and regional stakeholders with knowledge to navigate challenges and opportunities in an ever-changing economy.