Do 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.

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.

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?
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 Municipality of Anchorage.

Join 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.

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.

This FREE two-day workshop is designed to assist local business-owners and entrepreneurs in starting out or scaling up their business ventures. Our workshop features two expert presenters who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business.

Are you thinking about starting your own business?  This workshop was designed just for you!
In “Starting a Business,” you’ll learn about the initial steps and considerations for starting a small business.

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.

An event presenting to the Anchorage community what THE Week is and how to participate. The entrepreneurs, supporting organizations and investors will be presented during the event, as well as the sponsors.
Right after, we will have informal, honest, insightful conversations, around some good food.

Are you thinking about starting your own business? This workshop was designed just for you!

Do you know how to report your business income and maximize deductions on your tax return?
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.

An event connecting entrepreneurs, supporting organizations and investors to start THE Week !

Presenting what THE Week is about, how it is structured, the organizers... and some behind the scenes secrets :-)

Join us for a fun evening of learning about Buying & Selling a Biz while networking with fellow entrepreneurs.
Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone interested in the ins and outs of buying or selling a business.

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.

A panel of local “impact” entrepreneurs, using profit as a ‘means’ to an end.

The event has three main goals:

* Educate Anchorage residents about social or ‘impact’ entrepreneurship concepts, pathways, tools, resources
* Inspire Anchorage residents through stories of social entrepreneurs in the community
* Engage Anchorage residents in a team-based action-oriented workshop to apply the tools to get started to become a social entrepreneur

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.

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
Get work done during extended hours in a schedule that suits you FOR FREE

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
Come solo or bring your business partner and join us for this networking speed mixer! Coffee is on us.

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.

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).

Are you curious about what your business is really worth—or how to increase its value? Join us for a free virtual workshop with valuation expert Mac Lillard, and gain practical insights that you can put into action immediately.

Learn how to manage work and life tasks more effectively using Google tools. Whether you want to build a budget, create a meeting agenda or organize your priorities, these best practices will boost your productivity.  The Alaska SBDC partnered with Grow with Google and the Denali Chamber of Commerce to bring you this workshop free of charge. In this 48-minute webinar, we’ll […]

Are you looking for data to help you start or grow a business or understand the business landscape for a region? The U.S. Census Bureau can help!
Learn the tools available to research data and help you make informed decisions about your business.

Our workshop features two expert presenters who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to help you navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business. With an opportunity to attend 1:1 coaching after each session, you'll receive tailored advice and support to address your unique challenges and opportunities.

Join us for a discussion on patents, including the different types of patents, the application process, what to do after a patent is granted (or not granted), the rights of patent owners, and other business considerations.

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. For this engaging and action-packed workshop, Mat-Su […]

An event connecting entrepreneurs, supporting organizations and investors.
Informal, honest, insightful conversations, around some good food.
Join Tech Wildcatters and 49th State Angel Fund to learn more about available sources of funding for startups.
As 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. Hope to see you there!

You’ve developed a wonderful new product or service and understand the costs but how should you price it?

Are you posting on Instagram but not seeing results? If your content isn’t bringing in the right people or any people at all, it may be time to rethink your strategy. Building a true community, not just chasing likes and followers, is the key to turning Instagram engagement into paying clients.

In this webinar, Instagram expert Sue B. Zimmerman will show you how to build and grow an engaged Instagram community.

A panel of local “impact” entrepreneurs, using profit as a ‘means’ to an end.

The event has three main goals:

* Educate Anchorage residents about social or ‘impact’ entrepreneurship concepts, pathways, tools, resources
* Inspire Anchorage residents through stories of social entrepreneurs in the community
* Engage Anchorage residents in a team-based action-oriented workshop to apply the tools to get started to become a social entrepreneur

AI makes building more accessible than ever. Using AI to write code is something increasingly referred to as “vibe coding”.
In this workshop, you’ll discover how to use natural language prompts to generate code and quickly build functional, tailored digital tools.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur with a new product idea or an established business looking to innovate, the UAF Makerspace has the tools and expertise to help you get launched.
Come tour the UAF Makerspace and discover how we can help you take your business from concept to reality!

The SBIR/STTR programs invest federal research funds to drive innovation and strengthen the U.S. economy. This 40-minute On Demand workshop explains what the programs are, the benefits they offer to small businesses, and how you can get involved. In less than an hour, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to determine if SBIR/STTR is the right funding path for your company.

Get a quick crash-course (for free) on QuickBooks Online!

What exactly is a Co-op? Explore the dynamic world of cooperatives and learn how they foster community growth and resilience. This On Demand workshop, “Co-ops & the Alaska Cooperative Development Center (ACDC),” will provide a thorough introduction to how co-ops function, the different types of co-ops, and how ACDC supports their development across Alaska.

A panel of local “impact” entrepreneurs, using profit as a ‘means’ to an end.

The event has three main goals:

* Educate Anchorage residents about social or ‘impact’ entrepreneurship concepts, pathways, tools, resources
* Inspire Anchorage residents through stories of social entrepreneurs in the community
* Engage Anchorage residents in a team-based action-oriented workshop to apply the tools to get started to become a social entrepreneur

Join us for the official kickoff event of the 2025 Alaska Angel Conference with an Angel Investing 101 session led by expert Linda Janes. This engaging session is designed to help you learn about the conference and determine if participating as an investor or entrepreneur is the right fit for you.

You’ll get an introduction to the fundamentals of angel investing, including what investors look for in high-growth, scalable startups, and how the Alaska Angel Conference works to connect entrepreneurs and investors.

This event is open to the public, and we especially encourage prospective investors and entrepreneurs to attend. Whether you’re brand new to angel investing or simply curious about Alaska’s startup ecosystem, this session is your chance to discover how you can get involved.

Students will learn about the product design and prototype process.  Each student will create a product sketch to show the features and explain the purpose of his or her product.

The Small Business Development Center is partnering with Royal Caribbean Group to bring you this special evening.

Come celebrate with fellow small business owners and community members while enjoying food, drinks, and live music for a kick off to Alaska Entrepreneurship Week.

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
Get work done during extended hours in a schedule that suits you FOR FREE

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
Come solo or bring your business partner and join us for this networking speed mixer! Coffee is on us.

During this On Demand workshop, you will learn how to ensure that information about your business is current and that it’s easy for your customers to find you on Google Search and Google Maps, regardless of which type of device they use when searching for your business.

Please join us to learn: What is Neuro-marketing, Neuro-marketing Facts and Principles, Six Stimuli, turn Stimuli to Steps, the essentials of a Marketing Plan, Measure Performance, High Impact Strategies, and Social Media Marketing: How, What and When.

Learn the essential steps for government contracting.

Launch & Grow Your Business is a course designed to train participants on starting and running their business. The Launch & Grow program guides entrepreneurs in developing and implementing effective business plans to support strategic growth or secure financing.

I get my taxes done, but don’t understand my finances.  Will this help me understand my business finances?   Yes! Join us on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm for “Barebones Bookkeeping & Bookkeeping Blunders – Wasilla.” This In Person workshop is being offered at the Mat-Su Small Business Development Center (Mat-Su SBDC) Training Room in Wasilla, Alaska, and is presented […]

Your gateway to accessing capital or business coaching through Business Impact NW.

Excerpt of the event here.

Please join us to learn Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) Funding Phase Process, Eligibility Requirements, SBA’s Role, Role of the 11 Participating Federal Agencies, Online Tutorials, Tips of Proposal Writing and IP Protection, Events and Assistance.

Are you thinking about starting your own business? This workshop was designed just for you!

Whether you're a student looking to gain practical experience, an industry professional seeking new talent, or a member of the community interested in UAF's impact on the state, this showcase offers a look into how UAF is fueling the next generation of Alaskan entrepreneurs.

The Small Business Development Center is partnering with AWS and PREDICTif Solutions to offer professional services valued at up to $25,000 to help you bring AI ideas to life.

Up to 10 selected businesses will pitch their AI ideas virtually during this event to AWS and industry experts.

This 52-minute webinar covers the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), including what a “reasonable accommodation” request might look like, the required interactive process, and so much more!

Join us for a fun evening of learning about Buying & Selling a Biz while networking with fellow entrepreneurs.
Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone interested in the ins and outs of buying or selling a business.

Students will learn about the importance of obtaining market feedback about new product and service ideas.  Students will examine various survey question types and determine whether questions yield useful product feedback.

Hear from an inspiring panel of Seward-area women entrepreneurs as they share their journeys—their beginnings, challenges faced, and lessons learned.

This event welcomes women at every stage of business ownership. Whether you are dreaming, planning, just starting out, or already established, Ladies Who Launch is designed to connect you with resources and inspire your next steps.

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
Get work done during extended hours in a schedule that suits you FOR FREE

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
Come solo or bring your business partner and join us for this networking speed mixer! Coffee is on us.

This very basic workshop will provide participants with foundational information about Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI).

The Food Biz Basics class offers a deep dive into the nuts and bolts of starting and running a food business.

This class is designed to empower small business owners at any stage of the business life cycle with the skills and tools to enhance their strategies.

Please join us to learn Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) Funding Phase Process, Eligibility Requirements, SBA’s Role, Role of the 11 Participating Federal Agencies, Online Tutorials, Tips of Proposal Writing and IP Protection, Events and Assistance.

n today's competitive business landscape, a successful entrepreneur requires more than just technical expertise and a keen sense of market trends. They also need a resilient mindset that can help them weather the storms of uncertainty, overcome obstacles, and stay motivated during ups and downs. This interactive and inspiring workshop, "Cultivating a Business Mindset for Success," will help you unlock your potential as an entrepreneur by teaching you practical strategies for developing a growth mindset and overcoming limiting beliefs.

Increase your chances of winning contracts by learning how to craft proposals that meet all government requirements.

The Make It Alaskan Market returns October 3–5 at the Egan Center. Shop artisan-made gifts, crafts, jewelry, home décor, and more—all created right here in Alaska. Join us for a FREE weekend of shopping local!

A panel of local “impact” entrepreneurs, using profit as a ‘means’ to an end.A panel of speaker that will have the following GOALS: Goal 1: Educate Anchorage residents about social or ‘impact’ entrepreneurship concepts, pathways, tools, resources Goal 2: Inspire Anchorage residents through stories of social entrepreneurs in the community  Goal 3: Engage Anchorage residents […]

Your gateway to accessing capital or business coaching through Business Impact NW.

Kick off the Chamber luncheon season with a special presentation exploring Seward’s economic health.
We’ll highlight insights from Datafy’s visitation data alongside local sales tax trends, providing a clear picture of industry performance and community vitality.

Come talk to mentors and investors in the startup world to get advice on your startup, ask questions, or learn more about the startup world.

Small business owners tend to under-utilize marketing research as they develop their products and strategies. This is often due to a lack of understanding of when research should be performed and what types of research to employ. This webinar will review the techniques available and provide examples of when to use each one. This webinar […]

Is it time to start selling your products on Amazon? Click here to access The Beginner’s Guide to Selling on Amazon including a downloadable e-book. You will learn about what it means to sell on Amazon, the different options of how it can be done, listing and delivering products, growth opportunities, and more.

Discover what's possible when you combine innovative ideas with the right resources.
We're bringing together successful alumni from UAF's Center for Innovation, Commercialization, and Entrepreneurship to share their journeys to the forefront of Alaska's business landscape.

linkedinfacebooktwitterlinkedinAllan Carraway Business Coach Focal Point When I started my first business, I was so excited by the prospect of the future that I overlooked my inexperience. I figured I would learn all the skills I needed along the way. Unfortunately, I realized that experience really is the best teacher. Over 20 years later...

Students complete their pitch deck and learn to deliver a pitch presentation with the intent of attracting investors.

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
Get work done during extended hours in a schedule that suits you FOR FREE

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
Come solo or bring your business partner and join us for this networking speed mixer! Coffee is on us.

This is your chance to kickstart your entrepreneurial journey in a hands-on and creative environment. Join us at the Joseph E. Usibelli Engineering Learning and Innovation Building to learn how to turn your ideas into reality.

Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur with a new product idea or an established business looking to innovate, the UAF Makerspace has the tools and expertise to help you get launched.
Come tour the UAF Makerspace and discover how we can help you take your business from concept to reality!

In 2024, Ballot Measure 1 was passed and increased the minimum wage rates and changed sick leave requirements for employers in Alaska. How do these new requirements affect your small business?

Join us for this FREE On Demand workshop to gain a better understanding of the provisions of Ballot Measure 1, primarily focusing on Minimum Wage and Sick Leave. This will include who the provisions apply to, how sick leave accrues, what sick leave can be utilized for, and what this means for existing paid-time-off plans. In addition, there are several questions asked and answered throughout this workshop.

Please join us to learn Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer Research (STTR) Funding Phase Process, Eligibility Requirements, SBA’s Role, Role of the 11 Participating Federal Agencies, Online Tutorials, Tips of Proposal Writing and IP Protection, Events and Assistance.

Is your small business prepared to withstand and quickly recover from a natural or human-caused disaster in the Kenai Peninsula?
Join us for a timely and informative FREE On Demand workshop, presented by Brenda Ahlberg, Senior Manager of the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) for the Kenai Peninsula Borough.

Is your small business prepared to respond to ashfall from a volcanic eruption, wildfire impacts, or an earthquake? What should you know, what resources should you be aware of, and what can you do to protect your business? Alaska’s diverse and dynamic landscape makes disaster preparedness essential for small businesses.

Join us for this FREE On Demand workshop, presented by Jeremy Zidek, Public Information Officer at the Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Management, State of Alaska, where you’ll learn what your small business should do to prepare for, and respond after, a natural disaster.

Setting boundaries can be hard for anyone, but it’s a must when it comes to your mental and physical heath!

A special Alaska Entrepreneurship Week 2025 event, where entrepreneurs, legislators, investors, supporting organizations, and ecosystem leaders will come together over lunch to discuss how we can build, strengthen, and improve Alaska’s entrepreneurial community. This gathering is more than a meal; it’s a chance to connect across industries, share ideas, and shape the future of our […]

Are you a new or existing business owner who is confused about the basics of Human Resources (HR) Management?
This workshop will address essential HR basics to implement in order to grow and leverage your workforce while maintaining your company’s HR competencies in the marketplace.

A special Alaska Entrepreneurship Week 2025 event, where entrepreneurs, legislators, investors, supporting organizations, and ecosystem leaders will come together over lunch to discuss how we can build, strengthen, and improve Alaska’s entrepreneurial community. This gathering is more than a meal; it’s a chance to connect across industries, share ideas, and shape the future of our […]

Are you considering buying or selling a small business?

Join us for this On Demand workshop,”Buying or Selling a Small Business: Planning for a Successful Sales,” presented by Victoria Hofmann, Consultant at the Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC). This informative session is designed to guide you through the complexities of planning a successful sale. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur looking to invest in a business or a current business owner contemplating an exit strategy, this event will equip you with the knowledge you need.

We’ll explore essential topics such as:

the sale process;
financing options;
business valuation methods; and
negotiation strategies.
Additionally, you’ll gain valuable insights into the legal and financial aspects of buying or selling a business. Don’t miss this chance to prepare for a smooth and successful transition.

Are you a business owner who is thinking of selling your business, but wants to plan for your business’ longevity in the community, the continued employment of your employees, and leaving behind a legacy?

The Make It Alaskan Market returns October 3–5 at the Egan Center. Shop artisan-made gifts, crafts, jewelry, home décor, and more—all created right here in Alaska. Join us for a FREE weekend of shopping local!

Students will pitch their product idea to a panel of judges who will award teams 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes.

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
Get work done during extended hours in a schedule that suits you FOR FREE

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
Come solo or bring your business partner and join us for this networking speed mixer! Coffee is on us.

A special Alaska Entrepreneurship Week 2025 event, where entrepreneurs, legislators, investors, supporting organizations, and ecosystem leaders will come together over lunch to discuss how we can build, strengthen, and improve Alaska’s entrepreneurial community. This gathering is more than a meal; it’s a chance to connect across industries, share ideas, and shape the future of our […]

The Make It Alaskan Market returns October 3–5 at the Egan Center. Shop artisan-made gifts, crafts, jewelry, home décor, and more—all created right here in Alaska. Join us for a FREE weekend of shopping local!

The Make It Alaskan Market returns October 3–5 at the Egan Center. Shop artisan-made gifts, crafts, jewelry, home décor, and more—all created right here in Alaska. Join us for a FREE weekend of shopping local!