UMontana incubator reopening after major renos

The Montana Technology Enterprise Center, an Missoula MT incubator  operated by the University of Montana, officially reopens tomorrow (October 26) at a ribbon cutting ceremony. The center has just completed a  $3.5 million renovation and expansion. The project funding included a $1.75 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration with matching funding from the University of Montana.

One of the incubator's clients, Rivertop Renewables, will invest an additional $2.5 million in private capital to fully equip the facility. Rivertop Renewables had its start from UM research. The renovation improved Rivertop’s laboratory and office space and added a 2,000-square-foot semi-works facility, which will aid ongoing research and development of the company’s environmentally friendly chemicals.

The center was formed in 2001 through a cooperative agreement between university and the Missoula Area Economic Development Corporation. When the latter ceased operating about a year ago, the university stepped in to keep the incubator running.

The event starts at 1:30 p.m. followed by tours, refreshments and an open house from 1:45 to 3 p.m.