To start a coffee shop in Montana, pick a location and model that match demand and seasonality—college hubs like Bozeman/Missoula differ from resort towns (Whitefish, Big Sky) with winter/summer spikes. Form an LLC with the Montana Secretary of State, get an EIN, obtain city business license, and register for withholding (Department of Revenue) and unemployment (Department of Labor & Industry); Montana has no statewide sales tax, but resort taxes apply. Secure a Food Service Establishment license through your county health department: submit floor plans and equipment specs for plan review, designate a Certified Food Protection Manager, pass pre‑opening inspections, and verify potable water (test if on a well). Pull building/fire permits; install required hood and a grease interceptor if your utility mandates it. Engineer for Montana: water filtration to SCA hardness ~50–150 ppm, espresso tuned for elevation and dry air, vestibules, snow/ice, and heated drive‑thru. Choose offline‑capable POS and dual internet. Comply with minimum wage, tip rules, workers’ comp (State Fund or private), and labor postings. Source from Montana roasters or install a 3–15 kg roaster and check DEQ air rules. Typical build‑out: $150k–$450k; finance via SBA 7(a)/504, MoFi, or Prospera; launch with Google Business Profile, partners, and ski‑season hours.
