By Ellie Boeschenstein
Explore Big Sky got a chance to speak with Megan Porter, director of education and outreach at the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce to learn more about what they do for the community of Big Sky, advocating for local businesses and a healthy economy to make sure Big Sky remains a special and liveable place amid growth and new development.
This series is part of a paid partnership with the Big Sky Chamber of Commerce. The following answers have been edited for brevity.
Explore Big Sky: Can you give us an overview of the Big Sky Chamber and its primary mission?
Megan Porter: The Big Sky Chamber is the leading advocate for our business community, dedicated to enhancing the vitality and sustainability of Big Sky’s economy. Our mission is to champion a thriving business environment by bringing resources, ideas, and solutions to the table. We serve as a connector, advocate, and problem solver, ensuring businesses have the support they need to succeed in our unique and fast-growing community.
On the advocacy front, our CEO, Brad Niva, has traveled to Helena multiple times during this legislative session to advocate for critical issues affecting our community, including tourism funding, boundary issues, and childcare. Whether it’s helping businesses navigate the challenges of a resort economy, advocating for key community and state-level policies, or hosting events that connect business owners with key decision-makers, the Chamber is committed to ensuring our members succeed.
EBS: What are some of the biggest challenges the Chamber faces?
MP: Big Sky is a unique, unincorporated resort community, which presents both opportunities and challenges. Key issues like affordable housing, infrastructure, and childcare remain top concerns. Additionally, our businesses must navigate the complexities of operating in a seasonal economy, where staffing shortages and limited housing can create obstacles to growth.
The Chamber is committed to being a strong voice for the business community in these discussions, ensuring that solutions are both collaborative and forward-thinking.
EBS: Can you share some of the initiatives taken by the Chamber that help bring the community together?
MP: Our community is at a pivotal moment, with several important decisions coming up for a vote in May. In addition to our regular programs, we’re partnering with Resort Tax and Big Sky Community Organization to host two voter education events: Breakfast & Ballotsand Ballots & Brews. These events will provide an opportunity for the community to learn about key issues on the upcoming ballot and make informed decisions.
We also support the seasonal workforce during their time here by enhancing their experience, and connecting them with our community. We accomplish this by providing resources, hosting fun and informational events, including in-home dinners hosted by our community members.
EBS: What are some key benefits of becoming a Chamber member?
MP: Our work is centered around three key pillars:
- Championing Member Connections – Creating opportunities for engagement, networking, and celebration. This includes our Monthly Member Meet-Ups, advocacy for the value of connection, and professional development events.
- Advocating for the Big Sky Business Community – Representing businesses at the local and state level, including in Helena, to ensure Big Sky’s unique needs are recognized and addressed.
- Supporting the Big Sky Business Ecosystem – Providing educational resources such as our Lunch & Learns, business skill-building events, and our signature Leadership Big Sky program.
Chamber membership provides direct access to essential resources, advocacy efforts, and a powerful professional network. Members gain increased visibility, educational opportunities, and exclusive networking events—all designed to help their businesses grow and succeed.
Most importantly, membership ensures that businesses have a voice in shaping Big Sky’s future. We actively advocate for policies and initiatives that support business growth, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements.
EBS: How does the Chamber contribute to the overall economic development of Big Sky?
MP: A strong business community creates a strong local economy. The Chamber plays a vital role in attracting investment, supporting community initiatives, and advocating for infrastructure improvements that help businesses thrive. We also foster collaboration between the private and public sectors, ensuring that Big Sky’s economic growth is sustainable, balanced, and beneficial to both businesses and residents. Additionally, our partnership with Visit Big Sky strengthens our local economy by promoting responsible tourism. While Visit Big Sky focuses on marketing Big Sky as a destination, the Chamber is dedicated to supporting businesses and advocating for policies that foster a sustainable, year-round economy.
EBS: What efforts are being made to ensure Big Sky remains a great place to live and work for both residents and visitors?
MP: We are actively engaged in key issues affecting both residents and businesses, including workforce housing, transportation, childcare, and governance. We work closely with local and regional partners to find solutions that promote sustainable growth while maintaining the quality of life that makes Big Sky special. One key initiative includes supporting Visit Big Sky in the execution of the Destination Strategy Plan. The Destination Strategy is a roadmap for reaching Big Sky’s 15-Year vision for the future of tourism. It recognizes that the sustainability of Big Sky’s visitor economy depends on successfully balancing growth with meaningful stewardship of our community and surrounding environments. We are committed to working together so Big Sky continues to be a great place to live, work, and play.
EBS: How do you see Big Sky evolving in the coming years, and what are the Chamber’s priorities going forward?
MP: Big Sky is at a defining moment in its development. As our community continues to grow, we must be intentional about balancing economic expansion with the infrastructure and support systems that enable businesses and residents to thrive. The Chamber is committed to leading this charge by fostering abusiness-friendly, sustainable, and connected community.
Our top priorities include:
- Increasing the ROI of your membershipby expanding opportunities for connection, advocacy and learning.
- Ensuring businesses have a voice in shaping Big Sky’s economic future
- Expanding professional development opportunities to support business owners, managers, and employees at every stage of their careers
Big Sky’s continued success depends on strategic collaboration, proactive leadership, and strong community engagement—and the Chamber is committed to ensuring our business community plays a leading role in shaping what comes next.
EBS: Is there anything else you want people to know about the Big Sky Chamber?
MP: We encourage all businesses—large and small—to engage with us, share their needs, and be part of the solutions that will shape Big Sky’s future. Together, we can build a stronger, more sustainable, and more connected business community.
