Alaska
State Resources
While holding the largest area of all 50 states, its extreme landscape and midnight sun attract millions of visitors to enjoy its untouched nature. Its strong presence of indigenous culture supports Alaska’s leadership in the fishing industry with oil and gas being another major industry. The Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development (DCCED) seeks to “promote a healthy economy, strong communities, and protect consumers in Alaska.” DCCED partnered with the University of Alaska Center for Economic Development (UACED) on a 5-year Statewide Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), beginning in October 2022. The Alaska Statewide CEDS is designed to be used broadly by anyone working to strengthen the Alaska economy. Companies involved with manufacturing could benefit from Alaska MEP.
Supplemental Phase II Grants
An Alaskan-based business with an active SBIR/STTR Phase I or Phase II award can apply for supplemental awards by up to $75,000 (for a maximum total award of up to $100,000, inclusive of the initial award), dependent on the total amount of remaining funding. Interested parties may apply through Alaska’s Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development.
International Trade Assistance Grant
DCCED helps Alaskan small businesses expand into international markets by offsetting the cost of certain export-related expenses through reimbursement-style grants. The International Trade Assistance Grant (ITAG) program is funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) and administered through DCCED’s Office of International Trade within the Commissioner’s Office.
Renewable Energy Fund
The Alaska Energy Authority (AEA) seeks to reduce the cost of energy in Alaska and assists with the development and financing of energy projects around the state. It manages the Renewable Energy Fund (REF), which provides grant funding for the development of qualifying and competitively selected renewable energy projects. AEA considers funding businesses through a Request for Applications (RFA) and then recommends projects to the Legislature for consideration of capital budget funds. Since its inception, 296 REF grants have been awarded and funded via legislative appropriations totaling nearly $333 million.
Denali Commission
The Denali Commission aims to deliver federal government services cost-effectively by reducing administrative and overhead costs. Its mission is to provide job training and economic development services in rural communities, focusing on promoting rural development and providing infrastructure like power generation, transition facilities, modern communication systems, and water and sewer systems. The Commission provides funding for energy-related projects.
U.S. Department of the Interior, Division of Economic Development
American Indian and Alaska Native entrepreneurs can access various funding opportunities through the U.S. Department of the Interior, Indian Affairs like the Tribal Energy Development Capacity (TEDC) Grant, for example as part of the Department’s Division of Energy and Mineral Development. Also, the Division of Economic Development provides funding to assist tribes and tribal members with bringing their innovative ideas to the marketplace.
