Downtown Dialogues

May 19, 4-6 pm

Location: Residence Inn Downtown, 125 N. Pattee

Downtown Dialogues is a community conversation series that brings together local business owners, leaders, and neighbors to share stories, ideas, and perspectives shaping Downtown Missoula. Each event features candid discussions around timely topics—from growth and resilience to creativity and collaboration—designed to spark connection, learning, and meaningful dialogue. Downtown Dialogues is co-hosted with the Downtown Missoula Partnership & Missoula Economic Partnership.

Future Proofing Your Business Part Two: Scaling Beyond Your Storefront

Growth doesn’t always mean a bigger space—it can mean a bigger reach.

Join us for Part Two of our Future-Proofing Your Business series as we explore what it really takes to scale beyond your storefront. From building a thriving online presence to expanding into new markets, this conversation brings together local businesses who are doing it and the experts who help make it happen.

Hear firsthand from Bedrock Sandals and Confident Stitch, two Missoula-based businesses that have successfully grown beyond brick-and-mortar to build strong, recognizable online platforms. They’ll share candid insights on scaling their businesses, navigating e-commerce, and maintaining authenticity while reaching a wider audience.

They’ll be joined by Jill Alban of Ahead by 11 and Matt Sanchez of Ape Forge, experts in helping businesses grow smarter through strategy, SEO, and digital infrastructure. Together, they’ll unpack what it means to build a brand that extends beyond physical walls and how to do it sustainably.

Sponsored by:

Panelists:

Jill Alban, Ahead by 11

Kate McGivor, The Confident Stitch

Matt Sanchez, Ape Forge

Amy Hoyt, Bedrock Sandals

Emcee/Moderator:

Christine Littig, Missoula Economic Partnership