Government
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Government Engagement
The State & Local government of Montana plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth and advancement of the photonics and quantum industry within the state. Through policy initiatives and strong partnerships with industry leaders, research institutions, and educational programs, Montana actively supports innovation, workforce development, and business expansion in these cutting-edge fields.
Montana is dedicated to fostering a thriving ecosystem for the photonics and quantum industry, offering a red-carpet experience for businesses looking to establish and grow in the state. From assisting companies in securing funding to supporting international trade missions that build key industry relationships, Montana is committed to driving innovation and success.
The City of Bozeman plays a vital role in this effort, actively supporting photonics and quantum exhibitions and helping startups access industry conferences critical to their growth.
MPQA is also proud to highlight the leadership of Senator Daines, who serves on the Federal Congressional Optics & Photonics Caucus and is a key advocate for the DOE Quantum Leadership Act of 2025, working to expand quantum research and strengthen the industry’s future.
Montana is positioning itself as a leader in the photonics and quantum sectors, driving economic growth and technological breakthroughs that have national and global impact.
Beginning in 2014 the Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance has compiled annual surveys of the optics and photonics organizations in the state. The objective of the surveys is to better understand the employment and payroll impact of Montana’s optics and photonics industry on the state; and to identify ways in which the MPQA can help these organizations become world leaders. The full survey results can be obtained by clicking the links below.
MPQA is leading efforts to strengthen Montana’s quantum industry through workforce development, business support, and industry collaboration. As part of this initiative, we are taking a. deeper dive in the following areas.
- Workforce Analysis: Identify essential skills, assess education gaps, and connect with organizations to build a quantum-ready workforce.
- Business Environment Assessment: Engage companies to address growth challenges, including financial and infrastructure gaps for startups and minority-owned businesses.
- Tribal Community Engagement: Partner with tribal agencies to leverage assets, develop strategic investments, and promote equitable economic growth.
- Quantum Business Roundtables: Host three events to identify supply chain needs and drive investment strategies.
- R&D Collaboration: Work with MSU and the Tech Transfer Office to connect researchers with industry for commercialization opportunities.
This initiative will drive informed decision-making within the industry and positions Montana as a quantum industry leader through workforce readiness, business expansion, and strategic investment.
