April Shines A Light On Financial Literacy In Montana

Governor Gianforte has proclaimed April as Financial Literacy Month in Montana.

In doing so, the Governor unveiled new data that underscores continued growth and opportunity within the state’s financial and professional services sector.

A recent analysis from the Montana Department of Labor & Industry shows the sector has become a major driver of Montana’s economy, employing more than 66,000 people in 2024—about 13% of all jobs statewide. The report also found workers in the field earn an average annual wage of $73,610, well above the statewide average.

State leaders say the sector’s expansion has been fueled in part by innovation, entrepreneurship, and evolving workplace trends such as remote work. Since 2020, these factors have contributed to strong business growth and the creation of high-paying career opportunities across a wide range of industries, including finance, real estate, law, technology, and business services.

“As entrepreneurship and innovation expands in Montana, the Financial and Professional Services sector is helping to create good-paying careers for Montanans in every corner of our state,” Gianforte said, pointing to workforce initiatives designed to connect residents with those opportunities.

Looking ahead, the state projects more than 6,700 job openings annually in the sector over the next decade, many tied to workforce turnover and continued economic demand.

About a third of these jobs will require either a college degree or a professional certification.

Montana is seeking expanded financial literacy education in schools through House Bill 535, while also advancing broader workforce strategies through the 406 JOBS initiative.

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Officials say continued investment in training, recruitment, and upskilling will help ensure the sector remains a strong and stable contributor to Montana’s economy for years to come.