Total Nutrition and Tanning: A Small Business Success Story in Great Falls

Total Nutrition and Tanning
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  • Mar. 18, 2026

When Jake Deshner saw an opportunity to buy Total Nutrition and Tanning in Great Falls, he knew he needed trusted advisors to navigate the complex process. Deshner turned to the Montana Small Business Development Center, where he received critical support in business planning, financial forecasting and loan preparation.

The Montana SBDC network is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Montana Department of Commerce. With the guidance and resources offered by the SBDC, Deshner moved forward with confidence.

Rich Gannon, award-winning SBDC business advisor in Great Falls, said, “Jake is one of the most diligent clients I’ve worked with. His attention to detail and perseverance will serve him well as he transitions from employee to owner.”

Deshner has devoted the past 15 years to the health, fitness and wellness industry. As a lifelong athlete passionate about helping others reach their full potential, Deshner has dedicated his career to empowering people to become the best versions of themselves. He worked at Total Nutrition and Tanning for 10 years before pursuing ownership. Guided by faith, persistence and patience, Deshner’s enduring commitment ultimately led him to purchase the very business he helped grow.

Deshner secured financing through Citizens Alliance Bank, supported by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Obtaining funding was not easy due to the nature of the business; this made the SBDC’s expertise and credibility even more essential.

By purchasing Total Nutrition and Tanning, Deshner ensured the Great Falls community would continue to benefit from an established, trusted resource for health and wellness. Under his leadership, residents have ongoing access to knowledgeable staff and expert guidance in fitness and nutrition — the same high-quality support that has helped so many lead healthier lives already.

The SBDC exists to help people like Deshner achieve their goals of growth, innovation and success. Supporting 10 regional centers across the state, the Montana SBDC network helps small businesses succeed by focusing on free one-on-one counseling and low-cost training in financial analysis, business planning, strategic planning, loan packaging, financial projections and market research.

Through the SBDC, small businesses have access to resources such as webinars and checklists for whatever stage their business is in. They can find startup guides, business plan templates and detailed licensing information along with inspiring success stories from across the state. Whether they use these tools to work through the process on their own or contact their local SBDC advisor for free business advice, the Montana SBDC can help them become another small business success story.

To access the Montana SBDC’s resources and request business assistance, visit commerce.mt.gov.


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