June is here and for Alaskans, that means sunshine, salmon, and outdoor activities until you drop! I hope that all of you are able to get out and enjoy all the things that make living in Alaska so great this summer. When you do, don’t be surprised to see more tourists than you expected! Airlines across the state are saying that the interest in coming to Alaska now that COVID restrictions are waning and vaccinations are rising has never been higher!
But it’s not all sunshine and fun times, unfortunately. There’s still a lot to do for you business owners out there. For example, why not take a look at the Quickbooks classes we’re offering and learn a new skill? Or join the BuyAlaska program and get your business featured through our partnerships with Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise lines!
If technology is more of your passion, you should check out our TREND program’s Phase 0 grant. Your brilliant idea could receive up to $10,000 to help you submit an SBIR or STTR grant and get some federal dollars to help make your dream invention a reality! There are also a host of online classes on IP, patents, R&D, and prototype fabrication.
Summertime in the Greatland is definitely a “work hard, play hard” frame of mind for sun-starved Alaskans, but if you’re like us here at the Alaska SBDC, you wouldn’t have it any other way! Here’s hoping that your business endeavors are as successful as your fishing trips this summer!
Jon Bittner
Alaska SBDC Executive Director