BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ak Entrepreneurship Week - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Ak Entrepreneurship Week X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://akew.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Ak Entrepreneurship Week REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Anchorage BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0900 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:AKDT DTSTART:20240310T110000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0900 TZNAME:AKST DTSTART:20241103T100000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0900 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:AKDT DTSTART:20250309T110000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0900 TZNAME:AKST DTSTART:20251102T100000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0900 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:AKDT DTSTART:20260308T110000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0900 TZNAME:AKST DTSTART:20261101T100000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250924T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250924T133000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250828T023011Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T025228Z UID:10000020-1758713400-1758720600@akew.org SUMMARY:Scaling Up: What to Know Before You Expand DESCRIPTION:Are you thinking of expanding your business and looking for insights as you prepare for growth?  \nThis workshop offers a dynamic panel discussion designed for small business owners considering or preparing for growth. \n \n \n \n \n \n This workshop features insights from experienced entrepreneurs\, a lender\, and an investor.  This session will explore what it really takes to scale successfully. Panelists will share firsthand perspectives on funding growth\, operational planning\, managing risk\, and navigating expansion in Alaska’s unique business environment. Whether you’re just starting to think about growth or already planning your next move\, this conversation will equip you with practical tools and lessons learned from those who’ve done it. \nThe workshop concludes with a guided tour of a development in progress – the new Market Project (aka\, the Downtown Revitalization Project) in the Post Office Mall from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm!  Attendees will gain a firsthand look at the development process and have opportunities to identify potential business locations. \n  \nMore info & registration: HERE \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jon Bittner\nExecutive Director\, Alaska Small Business Development Center \n \n \n \n \n \n Jon Bittner is the Executive Director of the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC)\, where he leads a statewide network of seven regional centers dedicated to delivering accessible\, high-quality business assistance to entrepreneurs and established businesses alike. In his role\, Jon has helped to launch the $59 million State and $83 million Tribal SSBCI capital programs\, the AI Center\, as well as relaunched the BuyAlaska and TREND programs. His extensive background in economic development includes previous roles as Vice President of the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation (AEDC)\, where he launched a variety of entrepreneurship and innovation programs\, including Entrepreneurship Week\, the Alaska Pitch on a Train competition\, Anchorage Maker Faire\, and the Alaska Innovator magazine.  He also served as the  Deputy Commissioner for the Alaska Department of Commerce\, Community\, and Economic Development where he served on the boards of AIDEA\, AEA\, ASMI\, and oversaw the Division of Economic Development\, the Division of Banking & Securities and the Alcohol Beverage Control Board. Through his leadership\, Jon continues to drive innovation and support for Alaska’s small business ecosystem. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kelly Ann Cavaretta\nSeward Business Advisor\, Alaska Small Business Development Center\, and Owner\, Salted Roots and the Flamingo Cocktail Lounge \n \n \n \n \n \n Kelly Ann supports entrepreneurs in Seward as a business advisor with the Alaska SBDC\, offering expert guidance in startup strategy\, growth planning\, and sustainable operations. She earned her MBA from the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 2025\, enhancing her strengths in business strategy\, leadership\, and economic development. In addition to her advisory role\, Kelly Ann is a commercial real estate investor focused on creating community-centered spaces that foster local resilience. She is the founder of Salted Roots\, a boutique hospitality brand with locations in both Seward and Anchorage\, and also owns the Flamingo Cocktail Lounge. This vibrant downtown Seward property features a full-service restaurant\, beer garden\, and residential tenants. Her entrepreneurial work reflects a strong commitment to place-based development and supporting Alaska’s local economies. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny Grabowski\nAlaska SBDC  Business Advisor\n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny has been navigating the waters of entrepreneurship and small-business ownership for over 20 years. She is committed to empowering others and is excited to be working to further the SBDC’s mission to help small businesses grow throughout Alaska. \nGinny’s background is in the health and wellness sector. With a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion she has expertise in creating and scaling businesses that promote health and wellness. Her strengths are strategic partnership management\, client engagement and creating community through workshops\, training\, and the development of health programs. \n[more]\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rachel Pennington\nCo-Owner and Manager\, Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop/K Street Market \n \n \n \n \n \n Rachel Pennington is the co-owner and manager of Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop\, a beloved artisan bakery in Anchorage\, Alaska. Joining the family business in 2010\, she began as a baking assistant and quickly advanced to head baker. After completing a five-month program at the San Francisco Baking Institute\, Rachel returned to Fire Island as manager and soon became part-owner. She now oversees daily operations\, ensuring that each batch of scones\, cookies\, and sprouted grain sourdoughs meets the bakery’s high standards. She hired people from all walks of life\, including those who have immigrated here from faraway places as well as those recently released from prison. Currently\, Fire Island employs 90 talented and ambitious individuals. The bakery has expanded to 4 unique locations across the municipality. At this time\, Fire Island is housed in 2 beautiful buildings that collaborates and partners with other businesses in downtown Anchorage and in Airport Heights. These 2 spots have become beacons of joy and fun\, elevating baked goods and food service alike. Fire Island’s calling cards are kindness and quality\, and in everything they do\, it is evident. Known affectionately as the “Gluten Queen\,” Rachel is passionate about the art of baking and the community it fosters. Under her leadership\, Fire Island has become a cornerstone of Anchorage’s culinary scene. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dunbar Anders\nLoan Officer\, Alaska Growth Capital \n \n \n \n \n \n Dunbar Anders joined AGC in 2023 and has 5 years of experience in Commercial Lending. He has lived in Alaska for over 10 years and received his Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics and Marketing from the University of Alaska – Anchorage. Dunbar is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance at Alaska Pacific University. Anders’s lending experience includes the following sectors: commercial\, industrial\, and professional corporations’ loans with expertise in commercial real estate\, business acquisition purchases\, debt refinance\, and working capital loans. Anders is a member of BNI and the Young Professionals Group in Anchorage\, Alaska. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe Dugan\nInvestor/President\, Alaska Architectural Lighting \n \n \n \n \n \n Joe Dugan is the President of Alaska Architectural Lighting\, a company he founded in 1998 that has since become a trusted name in the state’s construction and design community. His recent projects include the Santos Building and the Wild Birch Hotel\, both reflecting his commitment to quality and craftsmanship. In addition to his lighting work\, Joe is an active investor in local businesses\, with stakes in ventures such as the Alaska Rock Gym\, Spenard Roadhouse\, Crush Bistro\, South Restaurant\, and an exciting new project on the horizon. A proud UAA alumnus with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy\, Joe values creative vision and practical problem-solving. Outside of work\, he enjoys spending time with his children and contributing to the vibrancy of Alaska’s business community. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Elissa Brown\nCo-Founder and Owner\, Wild Scoops \n \n \n \n \n \n Elissa Brown is the co-founder and owner of Wild Scoops\, Anchorage’s beloved micro-creamery celebrated for its adventurous small-batch ice cream made with locally sourced\, seasonal Alaskan ingredients. A former middle school science teacher\, Elissa transformed her kitchen experiments into a flourishing business\, launching Wild Scoops in 2015 at local farmers’ markets and opening the first brick-and-mortar scoop shop in downtown Anchorage by 2017. Today\, Wild Scoops has three locations in Anchorage and continues to delight the community with hundreds of creative flavors that tell a story of place\, all while fostering strong local partnerships and giving back through charitable initiatives. URL:https://akew.org/event/scaling-up-what-to-know-before-you-expand LOCATION:Alaska Experience Theatre\, 333 West 4th Avenue\, Suite 207\, Anchorage\, AK\, 99501\, United States CATEGORIES:3. Profit,4. Growth,In-Person,Panels & Fireside Chats,Storytelling & Founder Journeys,Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T130000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250828T222309Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T001111Z UID:10000029-1759145400-1759150800@akew.org SUMMARY:AKEW Introduction / Kickoff Anchorage DESCRIPTION:Alaska Entrepreneurship Week (AKEW) designed by and for Alaska’s entrepreneurs\, the week brings together founders\, students\, investors\, and support organizations to share knowledge\, build connections\, and spark new opportunities. From workshops and panels to networking mixers and pitch competitions\, AKEW highlights the energy of Alaska’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the vital role it plays in shaping the state’s economic future. \nThe statewide Kickoff Event marks the official launch of the week\, setting the tone for days of collaboration and inspiration. This presentation brings together leaders\, partners\, and community members from across Alaska to unveil the vision for AKEW\, spotlight featured events\, and recognize the people driving entrepreneurial growth across the state. Attending the kickoff ensures you’re at the center of the conversation and connected to the many opportunities unfolding throughout the week. \nFOR IN PERSON\, register –>  here \nFacebook event  –>  here \nThe URL for virtual meeting is at the bottom of the page. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event organized by  \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event sponsored by \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pascual J. Reig\nBusiness Advisor\, SBDCStrategy & Operations Analyst\, REFocus \n \n \n \n \n \n Pascual J. Reig is a business strategy and operations consultant at REFocus\, and an innovation leader known for helping organizations grow\, optimize\, and adapt. In his role as an advisor with the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC)\, he works closely with entrepreneurs\, small business owners\, and support organizations across Alaska to strengthen operations\, unlock funding opportunities\, and build strategic clarity. \nWith a professional background that spans engineering\, real estate\, construction\, and consulting\, Pascual brings a cross-sector\, systems-thinking approach to every project\, and he did the same upon arrival in Alaska over a decade ago: he has played a key role in several high-impact initiatives\, including the revitalization of Alaska Entrepreneurship Week (AKEW) and the founding of Launch:Alaska\, where he served on the inaugural Board of Directors. \nBilingual and globally minded\, Pascual combines U.S. and European experience\, drawing on insights from technical industries\, customer service\, and his close connections to medical professionals in Spain. Whether building innovation programs\, designing AI-assisted business roadmaps\, or advising rural entrepreneurs\, Pascual approaches each challenge with creativity\, pragmatism\, and a commitment to meaningful impact. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Norma M. Lucero\nDeputy Director\, AGC Alaska \n \n \n \n \n \n Norma M. Lucero serves as the Deputy Director of The Associated General Contractors of Alaska. Norma joined AGC AK from the Small Business Administration\, where she served as the Economic Development Specialist / Public Information Officer\, leading the SBA in its mission to empower individuals to start\, grow\, expand\, and recover their business.Prior to that\, Norma played an instrumental role as the Statewide DBE and OJT Program Manager at the State of Alaska DOT&PF Civil Rights Office in revamping and transforming business and workforce development initiatives into programs of excellence and and program templates for best practices at the national level.Norma enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors with her family\, traveling and mentoring youth. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ricky Tejapaibul\nManaging Partner and CEO\n \n \n \n \n \n Ricky Tejapaibul is the Managing Partner and CEO of Tech Wildcatters\, a venture capital firm headquartered in Dallas and one of the first 15 startup accelerators in the world.Ricky has been active in Alaska’s startup ecosystem for the past 4 years and now leads Tech Wildcatters’s expansion into Alaska. He has been on the planning committee for Alaska Entrepreneurship Week for the past 3 years. Ricky is an active angel investor\, entrepreneur\, startup mentor\, and has worked in various roles including management consulting\, investment banking\, and corporate finance for companies in the Fortune 500. Ricky earned multiple master’s degrees from Carnegie Mellon University including an MBA and is a Chartered Financial Analyst. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny Grabowski\nBusiness Advisor\, Anchorage SBDC \n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny has been navigating the waters of entrepreneurship and small-business ownership for over 20 years. She is committed to empowering others and is excited to be working to further the SBDC’s mission to help small businesses grow throughout Alaska. \nGinny’s background is in the health and wellness sector. With a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion she has expertise in creating and scaling businesses that promote health and wellness. Her strengths are strategic partnership management\, client engagement and creating community through workshops\, training\, and the development of health programs. \nGinny’s ventures have emphasized the importance of a user-centric approach\, leveraging technology through website development\, social media marketing\, and app development to enhance customer experience and engagement. \nGinny arrived in Alaska in 2002 and lost her heart to Alaska while working in the tourist industry in and around Denali National Park. In her downtime you’ll find her running\, cycling\, skiing\, or dancing to live music with her husband all over Southcentral Alaska. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Nolan Klouda\n \n \n \n \n \n Nolan Klouda is the Policy Director for the office of Mayor Suzanne LaFrance. In that capacity\, his portfolio includes state and federal relations\, economic development\, housing\, and fiscal policy. \nHe lives in Anchorage with his partner\, Michelle\, and two children: Cecilia and Winston. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Calvin Chang\nDirector 49 State Angel Fund \n \n \n \n \n \n Calvin Chang leads the 49the State Angel Fund (49SAF) as its Director\, focusing on growing the investment portfolio’s success in Alaska and beyond. He also leads the Anchorage C-PACER clean energy and resilience financing program.\n \nHe holds a master’s degree from Yale University\, a bachelor’s degree cum laude from Bucknell University\, and a Russian Regional Studies Certificate from Moscow International University.\n \nHe currently serves as the Secretary of the Alaska Investor Network (AIN) Board\, an ex-officio member of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors\, and chairs the Chamber’s Young Professionals Group (YPG) Executive Board.  URL:https://akew.org/event/akew-anchorage-introduction-kickoff LOCATION:Petroleum Club of Anchorage\, 3301 C St.\, Ste. 120\, Anchorage\, AK\, 99503\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,Business Stage,Community & Culture-Focused,Hybrid,In-Person,Networking & Community,Networking, Mixers & Social,Online (Virtual),Panels & Fireside Chats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/kick-off-Anchorage2.png ORGANIZER;CN="Alaska Entrepreneurship Week Team":MAILTO:contact@akew.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T130000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250828T012519Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T020256Z UID:10000012-1759147200-1759150800@akew.org SUMMARY:Starting a Business DESCRIPTION:Are you thinking about starting your own business?   \nThis workshop was designed just for you! \n \n \n \n \n \n During this FREE “Starting a Business\,” workshop\, Anchorage SBDC Business Advisor\, Ginny Grabowski\, will discuss the initial steps and considerations for starting a small business\, such as: \n\nbusiness licensing;\nlegal forms of business;\nbusiness record-keeping;\nhiring employees;\nbusiness planning; and\naccess to financing.\n\n  \nMore info: HERE \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny Grabowski\nAlaska SBDC  Business Advisor \n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny has been navigating the waters of entrepreneurship and small-business ownership for over 20 years. She is committed to empowering others and is excited to be working to further the SBDC’s mission to help small businesses grow throughout Alaska. \nGinny’s background is in the health and wellness sector. With a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion she has expertise in creating and scaling businesses that promote health and wellness. Her strengths are strategic partnership management\, client engagement and creating community through workshops\, training\, and the development of health programs. \n[more] URL:https://akew.org/event/starting-a-business LOCATION:Small Business Development Center – Anchorage\, 1901 Bragaw St Suite 199\, Anchorage\, AK\, 99508\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,Funding,In-Person,Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T153000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250903T022324Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T235802Z UID:10000032-1759152600-1759159800@akew.org SUMMARY:AKEW Introduction / Kickoff Statewide - online DESCRIPTION:Alaska Entrepreneurship Week (AKEW) designed by and for Alaska’s entrepreneurs\, the week brings together founders\, students\, investors\, and support organizations to share knowledge\, build connections\, and spark new opportunities. From workshops and panels to networking mixers and pitch competitions\, AKEW highlights the energy of Alaska’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the vital role it plays in shaping the state’s economic future. \nThe statewide Kickoff Event marks the official launch of the week\, setting the tone for days of collaboration and inspiration. This presentation brings together leaders\, partners\, and community members from across Alaska to unveil the vision for AKEW\, spotlight featured events\, and recognize the people driving entrepreneurial growth across the state. Attending the kickoff ensures you’re at the center of the conversation and connected to the many opportunities unfolding throughout the week. \n  \nTo see the recording\, click HERE \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Pascual J. Reig\nBusiness Advisor\, SBDC\nStrategy & Operations Analyst\, REFocus\n \n \n \n \n \n Pascual J. Reig is a business strategy and operations consultant at REFocus\, and an innovation leader known for helping organizations grow\, optimize\, and adapt. In his role as an advisor with the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC)\, he works closely with entrepreneurs\, small business owners\, and support organizations across Alaska to strengthen operations\, unlock funding opportunities\, and build strategic clarity. \nWith a professional background that spans engineering\, real estate\, construction\, and consulting\, Pascual brings a cross-sector\, systems-thinking approach to every project\, and he did the same upon arrival in Alaska over a decade ago: he has played a key role in several high-impact initiatives\, including the revitalization of Alaska Entrepreneurship Week (AKEW) and the founding of Launch:Alaska\, where he served on the inaugural Board of Directors. \nBilingual and globally minded\, Pascual combines U.S. and European experience\, drawing on insights from technical industries\, customer service\, and his close connections to medical professionals in Spain. Whether building innovation programs\, designing AI-assisted business roadmaps\, or advising rural entrepreneurs\, Pascual approaches each challenge with creativity\, pragmatism\, and a commitment to meaningful impact.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Norma M. Lucero\nDeputy Director\, AGC Alaska\n \n \n \n \n \n Norma M. Lucero serves as the Deputy Director of The Associated General Contractors of Alaska. Norma joined AGC AK from the Small Business Administration\, where she served as the Economic Development Specialist / Public Information Officer\, leading the SBA in its mission to empower individuals to start\, grow\, expand\, and recover their business.Prior to that\, Norma played an instrumental role as the Statewide DBE and OJT Program Manager at the State of Alaska DOT&PF Civil Rights Office in revamping and transforming business and workforce development initiatives into programs of excellence and and program templates for best practices at the national level.Norma enjoys spending time exploring the outdoors with her family\, traveling and mentoring youth. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ricky Tejapaibul\nManaging Partner and CEO\n \n \n \n \n \n Ricky Tejapaibul is the Managing Partner and CEO of Tech Wildcatters\, a venture capital firm headquartered in Dallas and one of the first 15 startup accelerators in the world.\nRicky has been active in Alaska’s startup ecosystem for the past 4 years and now leads Tech Wildcatters’s expansion into Alaska. He has been on the planning committee for Alaska Entrepreneurship Week for the past 3 years. Ricky is an active angel investor\, entrepreneur\, startup mentor\, and has worked in various roles including management consulting\, investment banking\, and corporate finance for companies in the Fortune 500. Ricky earned multiple master’s degrees from Carnegie Mellon University including an MBA and is a Chartered Financial Analyst.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Peter Webley\nResearch Professor\, Director (Center ICE)\, and Associate Director of Research (ACUASI) at University of Alaska Fairbanks\n \n \n \n \n \n In Peter’s words “I have a passion for business development and technology transfer from an academic environment into the private sector. I am a Research Professor of Remote Sensing as well as the Associate Director of Research at the Alaska Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems Integration (ACUASI)\, Geophysical Institute\, UAF. As well as Interim Director of UAF’s Center for Innovation\, Commercialization\, and Entrepreneurship (Center-ICE) and lead the instruction of the NSF funded I-Corps site program as well as managing the summer-based Students to Startups program. \nI was the Vice-President of UAF’s first start-up\, V-ADAPT\, Inc.\, formed in 2013 and have successfully licensed intellectual property\, been awarded small business innovation research projects and a US patent as well as been inducted into the State of Alaska Innovators Hall of Fame 2016 – 2017 class. \nMy research interests include volcanic ash cloud modeling\, use of unmanned aircraft systems for geoscience applications\, connecting emergency managers with real-time remote sensing data\, developing decision support tools\, real-time monitoring of volcanic activity\, and remote sensing of volcanic processes. My aim is to provide tools and products for hazard assessment and risk mitigation. \n1st Pioneer Awardee from the Arctic Innovation Competition\, CBSM\, UAF”\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny Grabowski\nBusiness Advisor\, Anchorage SBDC\n \n \n \n \n \n Ginny has been navigating the waters of entrepreneurship and small-business ownership for over 20 years. She is committed to empowering others and is excited to be working to further the SBDC’s mission to help small businesses grow throughout Alaska. \nGinny’s background is in the health and wellness sector. With a Master’s degree in Exercise Science and Health Promotion she has expertise in creating and scaling businesses that promote health and wellness. Her strengths are strategic partnership management\, client engagement and creating community through workshops\, training\, and the development of health programs. \nGinny’s ventures have emphasized the importance of a user-centric approach\, leveraging technology through website development\, social media marketing\, and app development to enhance customer experience and engagement. \nGinny arrived in Alaska in 2002 and lost her heart to Alaska while working in the tourist industry in and around Denali National Park. In her downtime you’ll find her running\, cycling\, skiing\, or dancing to live music with her husband all over Southcentral Alaska.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sandy Hussain\nJuneau Center Director\n \n \n \n \n \n Sandy Hussain has over a decade of experience as an entrepreneur in the retail and technology sectors. As the founder and CEO of Fashion Digital\, she led a premier thought leadership conference series in New York\, Los Angeles\, and LA. \nSandy thrives on helping businesses grow and scale\, specializing in digital marketing\, e-commerce\, startups\, business development\, fundraising\, and entrepreneurship. She holds a Master’s in Urban Planning from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in International Politics from Bryn Mawr College. \nA passionate lifelong traveler and explorer\, Sandy has lived in dynamic cities like New York\, London\, Boston\, Philadelphia\, San Diego\, and Los Angeles before making her home in Juneau\, Alaska.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kelly Ann Cavaretta\nSeward Business Advisor\, SBDC \n \n \n \n \n \n Kelly Ann supports entrepreneurs in Seward by offering guidance in startup strategy\, growth planning\, and sustainable operations. She earned her MBA from the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 2025\, further deepening her expertise in business strategy\, leadership\, and economic development.\n  \nIn addition to her advisory role at SBDC\, Kelly Ann is a commercial real estate investor\, committed to building community-oriented spaces and supporting local economic resilience.  Kelly Ann is the founder and owner of Salted Roots\, a boutique hospitality brand with locations in both Seward and Anchorage. She also owns and operates the Flamingo Cocktail Lounge\, a vibrant downtown Seward commercial building with a full-service restaurant and residential tenants.\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n PRNsis Bay\nOwner Diamond VIP Services \n \n \n \n \n \n PRNsis Bay\, leads a multifaceted career dedicated to entertainment\, community engagement\, and making a positive impact. \nShe has been in business since 2016 and over the years has established herself in the community and abroad as an executive media producer\, brand ambassador\, Red Carpet hostess\, TV show personality\, and Emcee hosting events.  \nPRNsis Bay’s public figure brand along with so many multifaceted endeavors and collaborations\, offers all of the projects she is a part of the benefit of a comprehensive array of skills including community outreach\, entertainment\, as well as promotional and marketing experience and services. URL:https://akew.org/event/akew-statewide-introduction-kickoff-online LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,Business Stage,Community & Culture-Focused,Hybrid,In-Person,Networking & Community,Networking, Mixers & Social,Online (Virtual),Panels & Fireside Chats ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ChatGPT-Image-Aug-28-2025-02_07_30-PM.png ORGANIZER;CN="Alaska Entrepreneurship Week Team":MAILTO:contact@akew.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T210000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250916T221413Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T221626Z UID:10000423-1759168800-1759179600@akew.org SUMMARY:Speed Mixer! 6pm DESCRIPTION:We know everyone doesn’t fit into the 9-5 so Umoja is opening its door to cater to the mad scientist that is BUILDING A BUSINESS\n\nGet work done during extended hours in a schedule that suits you FOR FREE. Come solo or bring your business partner and find a work station\n\nNoise canceling headphones\, coffee\, and snacks on us.\n\nAlso\, we will have a speed mixer scheduled between the 6pm and 9pm each night! URL:https://akew.org/event/speed-mixer-6pm/2025-09-29 LOCATION:Umoja Coworking and Incubator\, 3001 Porcupine Dr\, Anchorage\, 99501\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,In-Person,Networking & Community,Networking, Mixers & Social ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/umoja.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Umoja Coworking and Incubator":MAILTO:umojacoworking@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T235900 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250916T215408Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T215750Z UID:10000055-1759168800-1759190340@akew.org SUMMARY:Coworking After Hours DESCRIPTION:We know everyone doesn’t fit into the 9-5 so Umoja is opening its door to cater to the mad scientist that is BUILDING A BUSINESS\n \nGet work done during extended hours in a schedule that suits you FOR FREE. Come solo or bring your business partner and find a work station\n \nNoise canceling headphones\, coffee\, and snacks on us.\n \nAlso\, we will have a speed mixer scheduled between the 6pm and 9pm each night! URL:https://akew.org/event/coworking-after-hours/2025-09-29 LOCATION:Umoja Coworking and Incubator\, 3001 Porcupine Dr\, Anchorage\, 99501\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,Creative & Experiential,In-Person ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/umoja.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Umoja Coworking and Incubator":MAILTO:umojacoworking@gmail.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T140000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250922T224022Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T224034Z UID:10000446-1759222800-1759240800@akew.org SUMMARY:Getting Down to Business: Local Rules\, Resources\, & Readiness DESCRIPTION:Join us on Tuesday\, September 30\, 2025\, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm for “Getting Down to Business:  Local Rules\, Resources\, & Readiness – Wasilla.”  This FREE In Person workshop is being offered at the Mat-Su Small Business Development Center (Mat-Su SBDC) Training Room in Wasilla\, Alaska\, and is moderated by our very own Misty O’Connor\, Center Director at the Mat-Su SBDC. \nFor this engaging and action-packed workshop\, Mat-Su Center Director Misty O’Connor has assembled a team of leaders and professionals to answer questions every small business owner has about starting or growing their business\, leasing or buying land or a building\, and all the nuts and bolts behind the scenes of business operations. This workshop is jam-packed with all the right people to: \n\nEquip new business owners with critical knowledge on zoning\, permitting\, insurance\, financing\, and compliance before they launch.\nProvide direct access to local leaders and professionals\, so participants know who to call and why it matters.\nBuild a clear roadmap for sequencing startup tasks\, avoiding common mistakes that cost time and money.\nConnect attendees to the broader business support ecosystem in the Mat-Su Valley.\nEncourage community engagement and networking\, showing the value of collaboration and membership in organizations like your local Chamber of Commerce.\n\nMeet your Mat-Su Borough Mayor and Planning Department Director. Learn from expert bankers\, accountants\, insurance agents\, and realtors. Spend one-on-one time during our afternoon session meeting our guests and asking them specific questions related to your business. \n  \nREGISTER HERE \nAdditional information HERE \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow URL:https://akew.org/event/getting-down-to-business-local-rules-resources-readiness LOCATION:Small Business Development Center – Mat-Su\, 201 North Lucille St #2\, Wasilla\, AK\, 99654\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,In-Person,Keynotes & Talks,Networking, Mixers & Social,Panels & Fireside Chats,Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T130000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250828T195114Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250923T194912Z UID:10000015-1759233600-1759237200@akew.org SUMMARY:Lunch and Learn - Sources of Funding DESCRIPTION:An event connectingentrepreneurs\,supporting organizationsand investors. \nInformal\, honest\, insightful conversations\, around some good food. \nAs part of Alaska Entrepreneurship Week\, join Tech Wildcatters and 49th State Angel Fund at 12:00 PM at Cowork by RSD for lunch and discussion about available sources of funding for startups nationwide and in Alaska. \nJoin Tech Wildcatters and 49th State Angel Fund to learn more about available sources of funding for startups. \nHope to see you there! \n  \nRegistration and additional information HERE \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ricky Tejapaibul\nManaging Partner and CEO – Tech Wildcatters \n \n \n \n \n \n Ricky Tejapaibul is the Managing Partner and CEO of Tech Wildcatters\, a venture capital firm headquartered in Dallas and one of the first 15 startup accelerators in the world.Ricky has been active in Alaska’s startup ecosystem for the past 4 years and now leads Tech Wildcatters’s expansion into Alaska. He has been on the planning committee for Alaska Entrepreneurship Week for the past 3 years. Ricky is an active angel investor\, entrepreneur\, startup mentor\, and has worked in various roles including management consulting\, investment banking\, and corporate finance for companies in the Fortune 500. Ricky earned multiple master’s degrees from Carnegie Mellon University including an MBA and is a Chartered Financial Analyst. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alexa Bagamian\nAssociate\, Senior Financial Analyst – Tech Wildcatters \n \n \n \n \n \n Alexa Bagamian is an Associate at Tech Wildcatters\, a venture capital firm headquartered in Dallas and one of the first 15 startup accelerators in the world. \nShe has been on the planning committee for Alaska Entrepreneurship Week for the past 2 years.  \nAlexa has an extensive background in financial analysis and modeling\, budgeting\, forecasting\, and marketing in the defense\, financial services\, and technology industries with Raytheon\, Merrill Lynch\, and Dun & Bradstreet. Alexa earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics from Northwestern University. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Follow\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Calvin Chang\nDirector – 49the State Angel Fund (49SAF) \n \n \n \n \n \n Calvin Chang leads the 49the State Angel Fund (49SAF) as its Director\, focusing on growing the investment portfolio’s success in Alaska and beyond. He also leads the Anchorage C-PACER clean energy and resilience financing program. He holds a master’s degree from Yale University\, a bachelor’s degree cum laude from Bucknell University\, and a Russian Regional Studies Certificate from Moscow International University.\n \nHe currently serves as the Secretary of the Alaska Investor Network (AIN) Board\, an ex-officio member of the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors\, and chairs the Chamber’s Young Professionals Group (YPG) Executive Board. URL:https://akew.org/event/lunch-and-learn-2 LOCATION:RSD Co-Work\, 911 W 8th Ave #101\, Anchorage\, 99501\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,Creative & Experiential,Funding,In-Person,Inspiration & Stories,Networking & Community,Networking, Mixers & Social,Panels & Fireside Chats,Storytelling & Founder Journeys ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/https___cdn.evbuc_.com_images_1129546913_1805975691173_1_original.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="Tech Wildcatters":MAILTO:info@techwildcatters.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T140000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250828T164555Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250828T165638Z UID:10000022-1759237200-1759240800@akew.org SUMMARY:How to Prepare for a Small Business Loan DESCRIPTION: URL:https://akew.org/event/how-to-prepare-for-a-small-business-loan LOCATION:The Nave – Weidner Room\, 3502 Spenard Road\, Anchorage\, AK\, 99503\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,Funding,In-Person ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Screenshot-2025-08-28-083734-FILEminimizer.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250930T150000 DTSTAMP:20260406T045130 CREATED:20250919T182559Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250919T182818Z UID:10000442-1759240800-1759244400@akew.org SUMMARY:How Graduate Students are Developing Products for a Changing World DESCRIPTION:Come hear about the journeys of two graduate students\, who\, through working with their advisors on undergraduate research\, fell into developing products and working to commercialize what they co-developed. \nDanielle Wrenn is pursuing a master’s in biological sciences at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and is developing a toolbox to detect antibiotic-resistant water pathogens intended for remote deployment. Current testing often relies on transporting water samples to the lab within a short time frame — difficult in Alaska. \nJason Noel is pursuing a PhD in Ocean Engineering at the University of Rhode Island and is developing a fiber optic reel system compact winch system for live underwater monitoring. He is the science advisor for Juice Robotics\, a small Rhode Island startup\, and is simultaneously conducting research with the device and on it while working to commercialize the product. \nBoth students are supported by RISE-UP’s graduate fellowship programs at their respective universities. The program provides financial support and entrepreneurial training to graduate students empowering them to explore the commercial potential of their work and develop ideas into tangible solutions for real-world problems. \nRISE-UP (Regional Innovation by Scaling Entrepreneurship via University Partnerships) is a tri-state initiative led by the University of Alaska Fairbanks\, the University of Hawai’i\, and the University of Rhode Island. Began in 2022\, the collaboration has focused on addressing the shared economic and geographic challenges of Alaska\, Hawai’i\, and Rhode Island—states characterized relatively by geographic isolation\, maritime activities\, and a high dependence on imports. \nRISE-UP has a variety of programs to support researchers\, students\, and industry. Our testbed program is open to startups and businesses interested in collaborating on research\, prototyping\, design\, and development. \n\n\n  \nRegister HERE\n  URL:https://akew.org/event/how-graduate-students-are-developing-products-for-a-changing-world CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,Creative & Experiential,Demo Days & Pop-Ups,In-Person,Networking & Community,Panels & Fireside Chats,Resource Fairs & Info Sessions,Resources & Ecosystem ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ICE.png ORGANIZER;CN="UAF Center ICE":MAILTO:centerice@alaska.edu LOCATION: END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR