Jim Davison has been recognized for his life time achievements with the SBA’s Montana Legacy Award. Davison has served Anaconda, MEDA and the entire state of Montana well over his very distinguished career in economic development. He recently retired as Executive Director of Anaconda Local Development Corporation after 37 years of service. During his tenure, he seized every opportunity to diversify the economy of Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, create good-paying jobs and assist in developing a quality of life for Anaconda that has become second-to-none.

Jim’s work in Montana’s economic development arena began during a perilous time for Anaconda. Just two years before he took the reins at ALDC, Anaconda lost nearly 1,000 good paying jobs when Atlantic Richfield’s copper smelter closed in September of 1980. He was faced with the daunting task of reviving the Anaconda economy, whose success had been tied to the fortunes of the Anaconda Company for nearly a century.  Jim accepted the challenge and worked tirelessly over nearly four decades to diversify and strengthen the economy of Anaconda-Deer Lodge County.

Jim is a true collaborator and believes strongly in the power of partnerships to get things done. He is the only three-time President of the Montana Economic Developers Association (MEDA) and has served in various leadership positions for MEDA since the organization was established 26 years ago. Jim has continually volunteered his expertise when it was needed most, including his long-time involvement with MEDA’s Legislative and Public Policy Committee. Jim has also served as a Montana Ambassador, as Chair and long-time member of the Montana Board of Research and Commercialization and as a member of Anaconda’s Tax Increment Finance Board.

Finally, Jim’s significant contributions to the community of Anaconda extend beyond his professional responsibilities.  He is a founding board member of the Anaconda Community Foundation, served as a member of the Anaconda School Board, volunteers with his church and is active with the Ancient Order of Hibernians.

The legacy award honors an individual who epitomizes leadership, mentorship and philanthropy.  Jim Davidson exemplifies these characteristics and the SBA is honored to present him with this prestigious award.

Jim Davison was nominated by Paul Tuss, Bear Paw Development and Adam Vauthier, Anaconda Local Development.