WOLF POINT, MT — Great Northern Development Corporation (GNDC) is proud to announce a new tourism loan that helped the Children’s Museum of Northeast Montana purchase its downtown Glasgow building — a major step forward for one of the region’s most beloved educational and family attractions.
The loan was made possible through GNDC’s Tourism Revolving Loan Fund, a special financing program created with support from the State of Montana to strengthen tourism-related businesses across the region. With additional support and coordination from Missouri River Country, this project was identified as an eligible tourism attraction — a key contributor to the region’s visitor economy and family recreation opportunities.
The program offers flexible terms, competitive rates, and opportunities to partner with local banks to help businesses and nonprofits grow and invest in regional tourism assets.
“The Children’s Museum has become a cornerstone of family recreation and education in Glasgow,” said Kelcie Bates, Loan Officer at GNDC. “This loan helps them transition from renting to ownership — building long-term stability and allowing them to expand their programming for local families and visitors alike.”
Since its founding in 2005, the Children’s Museum has provided hands-on learning experiences for kids ages 2–10 through creative, themed exhibits like Main Street, Pollinator Exhibit, The Roxy Theater, and World Wildlife Experience. The museum attracts visitors from across Montana and beyond, serving as a regional hub for interactive learning and family tourism.
Executive Director Stacey Fast worked closely with GNDC’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Lending Department throughout the project — from early business planning to financial packaging and loan approval.
“GNDC’s support made all the difference,” said Fast. “They helped us navigate the process step-by-step. Owning our building means we can reinvest in our exhibits and continue serving families in rural Montana for generations.” This project represents how GNDC’s Tourism Loan Fund supports local investments that strengthen the region’s tourism economy, enhance community vitality, and help organizations reach long-term sustainability.
“This is exactly the kind of project this fund was built for,” said Tori Matejovsky, Executive Director of GNDC. “We’re investing in local assets that make our region more vibrant and welcoming — while supporting organizations that add real value to their communities.
The GNDC Tourism Revolving Loan Fund was established in 2024 through a state tourism development grant to support businesses and nonprofits that contribute to the regional visitor economy. The program offers flexible financing, competitive rates, and partnership options with local lenders for projects that expand tourism and strengthen rural communities. Eligible uses include property purchases, facility improvements, and equipment that enhance tourism infrastructure across GNDC’s service area.
(GNDC) Great Northern Development Corporation is the regional economic and small business development organization serving Valley County and the broader northeast Montana region. As a mission-driven nonprofit, GNDC partners with local, state, federal, and private stakeholders to bring resources, investment, and opportunity to rural communities. GNDC’s programs include small business advising through the SBDC, FADC, NABA, business lending, Brownfield Program, and community infrastructure planning — all focused on building a more resilient and prosperous region.
www.gndc.org
406-653-2590
Tim Phillips 
Stan Ozark