(1) "BEAR program" means a business expansion and retention program, as provided by 53-2-1216, MCA, and recognized pursuant to ARM 24.22.304.

(2) "Department" means the Department of Labor and Industry.

(3) "Employer" means, as provided by 53-2-1216, MCA, a business entity that:

(a) employs 20 or fewer employees in this state in one location but no more than 50 employees statewide; and

(b) is registered with the Secretary of State to conduct business as a sole proprietor, if required, or as a corporation, a partnership, a limited liability company, or an association.

(4) "MMEC" means the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center at Montana State University - Bozeman.

(5) "Recommending entity" means a recognized BEAR program, a SBDC, or the MMEC.

(6) "SBDC" means a small business development center operating as such pursuant to 13 CFR part 130.