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Infant child care is one of the biggest hidden barriers to workforce participation—and one of the hardest services to sustain. In this episode, Corinne Kuntz of Bird’s Nest Early Learning Village shares her transition from in-home care to a purpose-built center and what it reveals about the real challenges facing child care in the Flathead.

We break down the numbers behind the model—why infant care often operates at a loss, how programs stay viable, and what shifting policies mean for providers and families. Corinne also offers practical insight on expansion, staffing, and building trust with parents, along with strategies like summer programs and youth internships that support working families and strengthen the future workforce.

The Birds Nest Early Learning Village in Kalispell Montana

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

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In this episode, we sit down with Eric Harry of the Wachholz Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center at Flathead Valley Community College to tackle a key question: how do we help founders build and stay in Northwest Montana?

Eric shares insights from his work in global entrepreneurship and local startup development, highlighting what actually moves the needle—strong mentorship, real connections, and a community that shows up. We discuss the “missing middle” in business growth, why talent leaves, and how initiatives like Brew & Build are creating a more connected, founder-focused ecosystem.

If you care about workforce, innovation, or the future of the Flathead Valley, this conversation offers practical takeaways and a clear path forward.

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com

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Downtown Kalispell is evolving quickly, and community leaders are working to ensure that growth happens with intention. In this episode, Brenden Craig of First Interstate Bank sits down with Lorraine Clarno, President and CEO of the Kalispell Chamber, and Gabe Mariman of Bias Brewing to discuss Downtown Kalispell Forward—a new alignment that brings the Kalispell Downtown Association under the Chamber. The conversation explains why this change matters now and how it creates a clearer, more coordinated voice for downtown businesses and partners.

The discussion also explores what the merger means in practical terms for Main Street. From simplifying dues and reducing administrative overlap to strengthening event support and advocacy, the goal is a more efficient structure that helps downtown thrive. The group also looks ahead to the next 12–18 months, discussing how stronger collaboration can support business vitality, tourism, and talent attraction while shaping a vibrant, active downtown for residents and visitors alike.

Downtown Forward - Kalispell Chamber

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© Kalispell Chamber of Commerce. All Rights Reserved. 406.758.2800 | info@kalispellchamber.com