This year, CNN Money named Missoula as one of the top ten small places to start a small business.
If you walk the streets of downtown Missoula, you'll find one locally owned shop after another.
Dick King, the President of the Missoula Area Economic Development Corporation says that locally businesses are able to carve out a niche in Missoula.
Five years ago, Ana and Jason Willenbrock, took advantage of that opportunity. They opened up a shop that serves artisan chocolates, among other things.
They say they see a demand for their exotic chocolates and credit that to Missoula being a highly educated town.
Dick King says UM is one of the main reasons other small businesses have seen success.
He says that a strong educational community is a durable economic engine that can weather economic storms.
King also says Missoulians recognize the power of buying local.
And while the Willenbrocks have gained national recognition, they say their café has a strong Missoula following.
Billings also made the list, earning the number one spot.
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