April 2025
I’ve claimed spring was finally here in the last three newsletters, so I won’t tempt fate again. Instead, I’m now fixated on when Mt. Spurr might erupt and what that means for my collection of 80’s big-hair rock band vinyl. Shockingly, no one online seems to have guidance on this critical issue.
Thankfully, the Alaska SBDC does have guidance for small businesses. We’ve teamed up with disaster response experts to offer a series of workshops on how to prepare for volcanic and other natural disruptions. If you haven’t checked those out yet, I highly recommend it!
I’m sure that many of you are also watching what’s happening on the national and global stage as well. Tariffs are being implemented, markets are moving, suppliers are making changes and Canada is even considering a tax on trucks using the Al-Can Highway. We’re tracking these developments closely and creating resources to help your business adapt and stay competitive. If you’re seeing impacts already, reach out and let us know. We want to understand what Alaska’s small businesses are facing so we can respond with the most relevant tools and support.
Speaking of tools, if you haven’t checked out our AI Resource Program yet, you’re missing out! Carlos and Solomon have been hard at work developing some of the most advanced AI-driven tools and datasets in the national SBDC network. Recognized by over 50 centers nationwide, the program is considered a leader in AI business development. BuyAlaska is also going strong, with over 1,280 businesses in the directory promoted to potential customers across the country. The BuyAlaska B2B Exchange is also a great way to support local while growing your own business!
Lastly, a huge shoutout to the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) team. Jay Halverson and his staff have done a phenomenal job deploying both the State and Tribal SSBCI funds. Alaska is the second fastest state in SSBCI deployment, and our tribal partners have launched one of the most successful Tribal SSBCI rollouts in the nation. Together, these programs will unlock nearly $1 billion in small business funding over the next five years. Congratulations to Jay and the team for leading not one, but two of the highest-performing SSBCI programs in the country!
Between free business advising, low cost workshops, AI tools, online directories, small business surveys and more, the Alaska SBDC crew is working hard to support all of your businesses. We recognize that small businesses are the foundation of the state’s economy and the key to economic diversification, workforce development and long term prosperity of all of our communities.
Whatever your needs are, the Alaska SBDC is here to help. I hope that you take this opportunity to reach out to us and see what we can do to help you start, grow and innovate your business today!
Jon Bittner
Alaska SBDC State Director
