Bozeman Business & Professional Women

Bozeman BPW is a diverse group of over 150 professional women working to ensure that women in the Gallatin Valley have the tools to succeed. Our mission is to support women Professionally, Personally and Politically. Our members come together for regular meetings where they pool their talents and resources to create innovated professional, educational, and networking opportunities for women. We honor local women who are making outstanding contributions to our community and helping women succeed.

Bozeman BPW is licensed by the Business and Professional Women’s Foundation, a national organization that was founded in 1919 and remains one of this country’s largest organizations for working women.

BPW Foundation the first foundation and research center in America dedicated exclusively to the interests and advancement of working women.

History of the Bozeman Business & Professional Women

Bozeman BPW held its first meeting on September 18, 1930 in the Baxter Hotel. The 25 charter members envisioned an organization that would elevate standards for women, promote business and professional activities, and encourage a spirit of cooperation, fellowship and friendship among members. Over 80 years later, our mission remains true to this original vision.

Jessie Aiken was elected to be the first president, and many prominent women have been members over the years, including US Congresswoman Jeannette Rankin and many women Montana state legislators. Bozeman BPW has also participated in numerous important projects in its long history.

During the depression, Bozeman BPW members gave two hours of work weekly to unemployed women.  The first BPW educational scholarship was awarded to a Montana State University student in 1937. Early members also observed National Business and Professional Women’s Week each fall and named a Woman of the Year.