Story House, a Wyoming-based production company, relocated to Missoula, Montana in 2025 to capitalize on state film tax credits after Wyoming's incentive program failed. The company plans to build a 47-acre campus with multiple soundstages, promising over 400 jobs within six years. Founders James Brown III and Sean Patrick Higgins aim to create a sustainable filmmaking ecosystem in the region.

The move comes as Missoula recovers from the closure of a 50-year-old particleboard factory. State Representative Mark Thane, who championed the 2019 MEDIA Act tax credits, sees the project as an opportunity for high-wage employment and pathways for local talent. Story House plans to partner with the University of Montana to develop and hire filmmaking talent while addressing the city's housing shortage by building homes on campus.

However, skepticism remains among locals who witnessed 'Yellowstone' productions consume most of Montana's tax credits without establishing lasting infrastructure. Industry veterans note that while the hit series brought economic benefits, few credits remained for local studios after filming ended. Story House executives say they'll use revenue from their Wyoming residential development to fund operations and are committed to long-term investment in the community.