BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Ak Entrepreneurship Week - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH 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 BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0900 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:AKDT DTSTART:20270314T110000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0900 TZNAME:AKST DTSTART:20271107T100000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250915 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251004 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250916T043742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T050223Z UID:10000048-1757894400-1759535999@akew.org SUMMARY:Gold Pan Awards - Entrepreneurial Excellence Category Nomination Period DESCRIPTION:The Anchorage Chamber’s annual Gold Pan Awards has an entrepreneurial excellence category. Deadline: Oct. 3rd. \n\nThe business or individual must have started\, organized\, and managed a successful business\, exemplifying creative vision\, talent\, and innovative thinking that creates business opportunities.\nEntrepreneurs are allowed to nominate themselves.\nNOMINATION FORM URL:https://akew.org/event/gold-pan-awards-entrepreneurial-excellence-category-nomination-period LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,Business Stage,Competitions Beyond Pitching,Online (Virtual) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Gold-Pan-Awards.png ORGANIZER;CN="Anchorage Chamber of Commerce":MAILTO:info@anchoragechamber.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20250915 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260228 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250916T045555Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250916T050533Z UID:10000049-1757894400-1772236799@akew.org SUMMARY:Alaska Young Professionals Summit awards an Entrepreneur of the Year DESCRIPTION:The Alaska Young Professionals Summit awards an Entrepreneur of the Year in April. Deadline: Feb. 27\, 2026 \n\nEntrepreneurs are motivated individuals who identify a need and seek to fill it. They are among Alaska’s next generation of legacy builders. They are innovative\, passionate\, ambitious\, and visionaries. Most importantly\, recipients will have shown a growing impact with their business in their industry and/or community\nNOMINATION FORM URL:https://akew.org/event/alaska-young-professionals-summit-awards-an-entrepreneur-of-the-year LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,Business Stage,Competitions Beyond Pitching,Online (Virtual) ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/AlaskaYoungProfessionalsSummit5.webp ORGANIZER;CN="Anchorage Chamber of Commerce":MAILTO:info@anchoragechamber.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T050000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T060000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250905T044335Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T044652Z UID:10000039-1759122000-1759125600@akew.org SUMMARY:How to Submit an Award-Winning National Small Business Week Package DESCRIPTION:In this one-hour webinar\, you’ll discover the steps to submit yourself or your favorite small business for a National or District award. \nDo you or someone you know have what it takes to be named America’s “Small Business Person of the Year” for 2026? If so\, we invite you to join our nomination info session to learn how you can be part of this prestigious recognition. \nIn this one-hour webinar\, you’ll discover the steps to submit yourself or your favorite small business for a National or District award under various categories. Our team will guide you through the application process\, ensuring you have all the tools and knowledge to submit a completed package successfully. \nWhy Attend? \n\nLearn about the different award categories\nGet tips on how to complete a successful application\nUnderstand the timeline and key dates for the submission process\nHave your questions answered by SBA experts\n\n The journey to winning begins with a submission. Don’t miss this opportunity to spotlight your business or an outstanding small business making a difference in the community. \nReserve your spot today! \nDuring National Small Business Week\, the U.S. Small Business Administration elevates the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs\, small business owners\, and SBA Resource Partners from all 50 states and U.S. territories by recognizing them nationally and locally. \nFor more info\, contact Outreach & Marketing Specialist Brian Hopkins at 401-528-4575 or Brian.Hopkins@sba.gov \nThe U.S. Small Business Administration provides programs and services on a nondiscriminatory basis. Moreover\, SBA can make reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities if requested at least two weeks in advance. \nThe SBA’s participation does not endorse any opinion\, product\, or service of the organizations in attendance. The SBA organizes informational workshops for business development purposes only. \n  \nREGISTER HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/how-to-submit-an-award-winning-national-small-business-week-package LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,Competitions Beyond Pitching,Online (Virtual),Resource Fairs & Info Sessions ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/gif:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SBA-Lender-300-x-376.gif END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T060000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T070000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250905T045356Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250905T045402Z UID:10000041-1759125600-1759129200@akew.org SUMMARY:Managing Finances AFTER the Loan Award DESCRIPTION:Receiving funding is a major milestone\, but what you do next matters just as much. This workshop is designed to help small business owners plan and manage the deployment of loan funds to ensure that capital is used effectively and strategically. \nExperience advisors will review:Setting financial prioritiesBudgeting methods and using capital to drive measurable growthTracking how loan funds are spent and effectively communicating this to lenders \nThis session will help you align your financial decisions with your business strategy\, make the most of your funding and ensure you are positioned to repay the lender. \n  \nREGISTER HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/managing-finances-after-the-loan-award LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,Online (Virtual),Skills & Learning,Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/gif:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/SBA-Lender-300-x-376.gif END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T071500 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250925T004150Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T005215Z UID:10000449-1759129200-1759130100@akew.org SUMMARY:Cottage Food Permit Process – Municipality of Anchorage DESCRIPTION:Do you prepare foods in a home-kitchen in the Municipality of Anchorage and want to learn what’s required to sell your food products directly to consumers?  For example\, are you wanting to sell baked goods at a local event\, but not quite sure what’s allowed (and not allowed) by the Municipality of Anchorage?  The “Cottage Food Permit Process – Municipality of Anchorage” workshop explains what a “cottage food” is (and is not).  It walks you through the steps of getting your permit and what you need to do to stay compliant with the Anchorage Health Department in the Munciplity of Anchorage. \nDuring this 12-minute workshop\, you will learn: \n\nWhat “cottage foods” include and what they don’t include;\nThe cottage food permit requirements;\nWhat you need to do before selling cottage foods in the Municipality of Anchorage;\nInformation about submitting a Cottage Food License application;\nSteps required to get a Food Worker Card;\nExample of “list of ingredients” that must be submitted in the application;\nExplanation of cottage foods requiring pH and water activity test;\nExample of cottage food product label requirements;\nExample of cottage food placard display requirements;\nResponsibilities in preparing and packaging cottage food products to assure health and sanitation;\nInspections of cottage food and food safety compliance;\nAdditional safety techniques\, samples and sanitizing; and\nOther resources.\n\n \n Information and registration HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/cottage-food-permit-process-municipality-of-anchorage LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,Online (Virtual),Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T080000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250925T024239Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T024508Z UID:10000466-1759129200-1759132800@akew.org SUMMARY:Demystifying Food Cooperatives DESCRIPTION:Are you thinking about different options for structuring your food-related business?  Are you thinking about converting your existing business into a co-op? If you are in the food industry\, a Food Cooperative might be something to consider. \nJoin us for this engaging On Demand workshop\, “Demystifying Food Cooperatives” presented by Stuart Reid\, Principal/Owner\, The Co-op Consultant.  Stuart is a seasoned expert with over 45 years of experience in the food co-op movement. This workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of food co-ops\, offering valuable insights into their benefits\, operations\, and role in strengthening communities. \n \n Information and registration HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/demystifying-food-cooperatives LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,Online (Virtual),Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T084500 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250925T012504Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T012510Z UID:10000451-1759132800-1759135500@akew.org SUMMARY:How to Get a Business License in Alaska DESCRIPTION:What are the steps for getting a business license?  What information do you need to provide when getting a business license?  This workshop is intended to guide you through the steps for getting a business license in the state of Alaska.  It’s not meant to be legal advice\, but rather a guide to walk you through the steps and help you find the correct information that’s required. \nDuring this 38-minute On Demand workshop\, you will learn: \n\nstep-by-step instructions for how to get a business license in Alaska;\na list of information that’s needed;\ntips on how to find your NAICS code; and\nwhere to find useful resources.\n\n \n Information and registration HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/how-to-get-a-business-license-in-alaska LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,Online (Virtual),Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T100000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250925T015735Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T020347Z UID:10000457-1759136400-1759140000@akew.org SUMMARY:Starting a Business DESCRIPTION:Are you thinking about starting your own business?  This workshop was designed just for you! \nIn “Starting a Business\,” you’ll learn about 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\nLet the Alaska SBDC help guide you through the process of starting a small business. \n \n Information and registration HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/starting-a-business-25 LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,Online (Virtual),Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T110000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250925T020603Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T021135Z UID:10000458-1759140000-1759143600@akew.org SUMMARY:Starting a Childcare Business in Alaska DESCRIPTION:Are you thinking of starting a childcare business?  Or… perhaps you are in the early stages of operating a childcare business?  Our On Demand workshop\, “Starting a Child Care Business\,” is an excellent training that will help you in setting up your childcare business. \nDuring this 56-minute On Demand workshop\, you will learn: \n\nhow to develop your business idea;\nwhat licensing is required;\nthe parts of a Business Plan;\nthe different types of legal structures for the business;\noptions for financing your business;\nchildcare-specific business considerations; and\nhow the Alaska SBDC can help you every step of the way.\n\n \n Information and registration HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/starting-a-childcare-business-in-alaska LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,Online (Virtual),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:20260404T091645 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:20250929T131500 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250828T020106Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250928T003534Z UID:10000018-1759147200-1759151700@akew.org SUMMARY:Schedule C and Other Small Business Taxes DESCRIPTION:Do you know how to report your business income and maximize deductions on your tax return? \n \n \n \n \n \n This FREE Live Webinar on “Schedule C and Other Small Business Taxes” is designed for sole proprietors\, self-employed individuals\, and gig economy workers. This session will walk you through the process of reporting income and expenses using IRS Schedule C\, and highlight other key small business tax considerations. \nPresented by David Higgins\, Tax Specialist at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)\, this workshop offers a step-by-step guide to completing Schedule C and understanding which expenses are deductible. You’ll also learn about important updates from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act\, how to handle bartering income\, and how certain deductions flow to your individual tax return. \nIf you’re a small business owner preparing for tax season\, this training will help you report income accurately and take advantage of the deductions available to you. \nTopics covered in this training include: \n\nUnderstanding the Qualified Business Income (Section 199A) Deduction.\nCompleting Schedule C\, Part I:\n\nGross Receipts.\nReturns and Allowances.\nCost of Goods Sold.\nGross Profit and Gross Income.\nBartering income.\n\n\nCompleting Schedule C\, Part II:\n\nCar and Truck Expenses.\nDepreciation and expensing under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.\nLegal\, professional\, and office expenses.\nSupplies.\nTravel\, meals\, and entertainment.\n\n\nCalculating Net Profit or Loss.\nReporting possible deductions on Form 1040.\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 David Higgins\nTax Specialist at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) \n \n \n \n \n \n David Higgins works for the IRS in the Communications and Liaison Division as a Tax Specialist in Seattle\, WA. David serves as the primary IRS contact to community\, industry\, and business organizations throughout Washington and Alaska. David educates on a variety of tax topics to all taxpayer communities\, including employers\, community groups\, small business resource partners and tax practitioner organizations. \nDavid began his career with the Internal Revenue Service in 2010 in Taxpayer Service\, education\, compliance\, and tax law. Before joining the IRS\, David served in the US Census providing outreach to community groups. URL:https://akew.org/event/schedule-c-and-other-small-business-taxes LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,5. Exit,Online (Virtual),Resource Fairs & Info Sessions,Resources & Ecosystem,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:20260404T091645 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:20250929T140000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T160000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250926T183857Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T183904Z UID:10000476-1759154400-1759161600@akew.org SUMMARY:SCORE: When Banks Say No DESCRIPTION: \n\n\nDid your small business loan request get denied? You’re not alone — but a “no” doesn’t have to stop you.\n \n\n\nJoin funding expert Boyd Karren to learn:\n Alternative funding options banks don’t offer\n How to find the right loan solution for your business\n Steps to secure funding and grow with confidence\n \n\n\n Hope. Understanding. Direction. Get the tools to keep moving forward.\n \n————————–\n\n\n\n\nIt’s tough for small businesses to get funding. In fact\, 80-85% of small business loan requests are denied by banks. So\, what’s a small business owner to do when the bank says no? Find alternative funding sources! “When Banks Say No” provides an overview of alternative funding options for small business owners who need money to start\, support or grow their businesses. \nTakeaways from and Benefits of Attending “When Banks Say No”: \n1.    Hope! A “no” from the bank is not the end of the road. There are many options available for nearly any business situation. \n2.    Understanding! We’ll explain many funding options that banks just don’t offer. One might be just what you need! \n3.    Direction! When you identify one or two loan options that work for you\, you can take the steps towards acquiring that money to start or support or grow your business. \n  \nOur Presenter\, Boyd Karren: \nBoyd is “a serial entrepreneur”. He loves the world of small business and believes deeply that small business ownership is the key to strong communities. \nBoyd has earned two master’s degrees in business: an MBA from Indiana University\, and a Master of Global Management degree from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. \nHe became a business loan broker and started Otro Financial after experiencing his own difficulties in finding funding for his small business opportunities. \nWhile living in Texas\, Boyd had a “Field of Dreams moment” in which the voices in the corn told him to move to Florida\, which he did\, bringing Otro Financial with him. \nBoyd and his wife\, Kristi\, will celebrate 30 years of marriage this August. They are the parents of four children\, and as of last August\, they became empty nesters. He is loving this new phase of life while they wait semi-patiently for grandchildren. In his free time\, you will find him and his wife enjoying tacos\, road trips\, or just sitting in chairs at the beach\, relaxing. \n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n \n\n \n\n\n\n\n \n \n Additional information and registration: HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/score-when-banks-say-no CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,4. Growth,Keynotes & Talks,Online (Virtual),Resource Fairs & Info Sessions ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/555407429_1218300200328880_7122231590173858473_n.jpg LOCATION: END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T163000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250919T025548Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T004058Z UID:10000438-1759159800-1759163400@akew.org SUMMARY:National Science Foundation's Innovation Corps NorthWest Hub DESCRIPTION:Are you a researcher\, innovator\, or aspiring entrepreneur sitting on a brilliant idea that could change the world? Instead of thinking of what your market needs\, you can be out there\, engaging with potential customers\, unearthing critical insights\, and understanding the demand for your innovation. For those looking to validate an idea or iterate to build something people want\, customer discovery is a must. This is your feedback loop\, if you want your startup to grow and scale. \nCome learn more about the National Science Foundation’s Innovation Corps Northwest Region Hub. The training programs through the Hub team gives you the skills to learn how to validate your assumptions\, pivot when necessary\, and build a robust pathway from discovery to viable solution. It’s an intensive\, hands-on program designed to rocket your groundbreaking concepts from the lab into the real world. \n \nMore info & Registration: HERE\n \nFor Researchers & StudentsReady to take your idea out of the lab? Join us for a panel on the I-Corps program. This is your chance to learn directly from industry professionals and find out how the Northwest Region Hub can provide you the training to understand end-user needs and expand the impact of your proposed solution\n \nAbout I-Corps\nThe I-Corps program is a unique opportunity to gain practical experience and professional development that goes beyond traditional academic training. It’s a chance to take your groundbreaking research or innovative ideas out of the lab and into the real world. By participating\, you’ll learn a rigorous\, hands-on methodology for customer discovery\, which is the process of interviewing potential customers to validate whether your innovation truly solves a problem for them. This training is crucial because it helps you build an evidence-based commercialization strategy and prevents you from spending years developing a product no one wants. The program provides you with access to a network of mentors and industry professionals who can provide invaluable feedback\, helping you refine your idea and understand its market potential. As part of the new Northwest Region I-Corps Hub\, you also gain access to a larger regional network\, increasing your chances of success and providing a clear pathway to follow-on funding\, including potential $50\,000 grants from the National Science Foundation’s National I-Corps program.\n \n\n\n  URL:https://akew.org/event/national-science-foundations-innovation-corps-northwest-hub CATEGORIES:1. Idea,Online (Virtual),Workshops & Trainings 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 BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T190000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250826T215348Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T224539Z UID:10000009-1759168800-1759172400@akew.org SUMMARY:JA: Innovative Ideas DESCRIPTION:In this session\, students will learn about generating innovative ideas while keeping in mind the market and need.  They will examine cutting-edge and innovative new products before brainstorming their own product ideas. \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 Link to the event will be posted soon URL:https://akew.org/event/ja-innovative-ideas LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,Online (Virtual),Skills & Learning,Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/JA_-Innovative-Ideas-FILEminimizer.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T200000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250925T021917Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T021923Z UID:10000460-1759172400-1759176000@akew.org SUMMARY:Business Use of Your Home in Alaska DESCRIPTION:Curious about how to turn part of your home into a tax-saving opportunity?  Whether you’re a freelancer\, small business owner\, or remote worker using a home office\, understanding how to properly claim deductions for business use of your home can make a significant difference at tax time. Join us for this free On Demand workshop on “Business Use of Your Home in Alaska” with David Higgins\, Tax Specialist with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)\, to learn everything you need to know. \nDavid Higgins will walk you through the essential rules\, requirements\, and opportunities available. You’ll also gain access to helpful downloadable handouts to support your learning and application of these tax strategies. \nWhat you’ll learn during this training: \n\nSimplified Home Office Deduction\nQualifying for business use of the home deduction – Exclusive Use Test\nRegular Use Test\nPrincipal Place of Business Test\nActivities that don’t disqualify your home office\nMeeting Place for Customers Test\nSeparate Structure Test\nDeduction limits\nTypes of expenses\nExpenses related to the business activity in the home\nBusiness Use of the Home Expenses\nDeductible expenses\nDeduction limits – Gross Income\nExample – Determining the home office deduction\nWhat you can’t do\nSelling your home when you used it for business\nIllegal Tax Avoidance Schemes\n\n \n Information and registration HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/business-use-of-your-home-in-alaska LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,2. Pre-Profit,3. Profit,Online (Virtual),Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T200000 DTEND;TZID=America/Anchorage:20250929T210000 DTSTAMP:20260404T091645 CREATED:20250925T023228Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250925T023345Z UID:10000464-1759176000-1759179600@akew.org SUMMARY:Understanding Purchasing & Shared Services Cooperatives DESCRIPTION:Are you looking for a way to pool resources or services with other small businesses to better compete with bigger businesses?  This workshop is for you!  “Understanding Purchasing & Shared Services Cooperatives” starts with a brief introduction to co-ops generally\, and then dives deep into purchasing cooperatives (co-ops) and share services cooperatives (co-ops). \nDuring this 28-minute On Demand workshop\, you will learn: \n\nwhat co-ops are\, in general;\nthe definition and examples of “purchasing cooperatives”;\nthe definition and examples of “shared services cooperatives”;\nthe factors of successful cooperatives; and\nwhat the Alaska Cooperative Development Center (ACDC) does and how they can help.\n\n \n Information and registration HERE URL:https://akew.org/event/understanding-purchasing-shared-services-cooperatives LOCATION:Alaska\, AK\, United States CATEGORIES:1. Idea,Online (Virtual),Workshops & Trainings ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://akew.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/sbdc.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR