In 2012 Regional Technology Strategies, Inc identified a rapidly growing cluster of optics and photonics companies and research institutions in Montana.  Comprised of over 20 organizations, this cluster is one of the highest per capital concentrations of optics and photonics companies and research institutions in the United States and is recognized by the state for its economic growth potential.  Click here to read the full report, “Imagining a Future for the Big Sky Optics Cluster.” 

The Montana Photonics Industry Alliance was formed in October 2013 to promote the growth and success of the Montana optics cluster organizations.

In 2023, the Montana Photonics Industry Alliance (MPQA) expanded their reach to include Quantum, which integrates well into the mission and vision of the organization, in doing so, the organization was renamed, Montana Photonics & Quantum Alliance.