Governor Otter, Idaho Department of Commerce Participate in SHOT Show 2018February 6, 2018

“The SHOT Show is a great opportunity to show off some of the best of Idaho’s growing outdoor recreation industry. It’s a chance to highlight our innovative Idaho entrepreneurs to a global audience, and it’s a lot of fun for anyone who loves the shooting sports or just enjoying the outdoors,” said Governor Otter.

The SHOT Show and Conference is the largest annual trade show for outdoor industry professionals and the world’s premier exposition of combined hunting, shooting sports, firearms, ammunition, law enforcement, military, cutlery, outdoor apparel, optics and related products and services. The show attracts over 64,000 industry professionals from more than 100 countries and includes over 1,600 exhibitors.

According to the Outdoor Industry Association, outdoor recreation is a $7.8 billion industry in Idaho and accounts for over 78,000 direct jobs. Representatives from the following organizations have partnered with the Idaho Department of Commerce to support their local businesses and highlight what their communities can offer to relocating or expanding companies: Bannock Development Corporation, Lemhi County Economic Development Association, Snake River Economic Development Association, Valley Vision, and Coeur d’Alene Area Economic Development Agency.

“At 2A Armament we genuinely appreciate the support of the Department of Commerce all the way up to Governor Otter to create a business friendly climate for the firearms sector,” said Steve Fitz, general manager of 2A Armament in Boise. “Idaho is clearly the leader in providing such an environment and we’re grateful to have it.”

The Department of Commerce organized the Idaho Reception with the help of sponsorships and donations from Idaho companies and partner organizations. The event provides an opportunity to showcase Idaho’s business advantages and a forum for Idaho businesses to networking and engage clients. Over 250 guests attended this year’s reception. Lewiston-based Howell Munitions & Technology was the title sponsor, and speakers included Governor Otter, Commerce Director Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, and Idaho Fish and Game Director Virgil Moore.

“It was great to keep the reception going strong again this year. The event was fantastic and we will continue to support the reception for years to come,” said Jansen Jones, president of Howell Munitions & Technology. “Our Governor and the Idaho Department of Commerce are doing some great things for the state of Idaho.”

To learn more about the Idaho Department of Commerce, visit http://commerce.idaho.gov.