It’s been a big year for the Alaska SBDC in Juneau, and much of that momentum is thanks to Sandy Hussain, the Center’s Director and a seasoned entrepreneur bringing fresh perspective and powerful experience to Southeast Alaska’s business community.
In her first year at the helm, Sandy has helped dozens of clients navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, supported over 180 local jobs, and guided entrepreneurs in securing more than $2.6 million in funding. From first-time founders to established companies looking to scale, she’s quickly becoming a trusted resource across the region.
Sandy brings more than a decade of experience in the retail and technology sectors, having founded and led Fashion Digital, a premier e-commerce and marketing conference series hosted in New York, Los Angeles, and London. Her background spans digital marketing, e-commerce, business development, fundraising, and early-stage startup strategy, making her an invaluable advisor in today’s fast-moving market.
With a Master’s in Urban Planning from Harvard University and a B.A. in Economics from Bryn Mawr College, Sandy blends strategic thinking with hands-on entrepreneurial grit. After building a global career, she now calls Juneau home and is passionate about supporting the businesses that make Southeast Alaska thrive.
Impact of the First Year
The Juneau Center for the Alaska SBDC is positioned to complete FY25 with strong progress and a clear vision for growth. As a newly appointed Center Director, Sandy focused on ramping up operations, completing formal training, and quickly embedding herself in the local small business community. The result: a productive first year marked by measurable outcomes and deepening relationships with Juneau’s entrepreneurs. Since stepping into the role, Sandy has prioritized meeting businesses where they are, both in terms of their stage of development and the challenges they face.
“I can’t say enough good about how much support and advice Sandy provides me! Working with her has encouraged me to believe in a bigger vision, and she has connected me with the right tools and resources to get there.” – Syneva Runyan, Local Loop
Key metrics from April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025 include:
- 587+ hours of advising delivered across 16 industries
- 79 unique clients served, mostly pre-venture and startup
- 181 jobs supported
- $2.63 million in capital infusion, including $2.59 million in small business loans
- 5 new business launches in sectors including food services, transportation, entertainment, and professional services
Advising hours surged dramatically in FY25, especially in Q3, which saw a 338% increase in comparison to the same quarter in FY24, when the center operated without a dedicated director.
Community First
The past year has also marked the launch of several new partnerships and initiatives for the Juneau Center as Sandy:
- Created and distributed a Small Business Saturday proclamation in collaboration with CBJ and Mayor Weldon
- Participated in the SBA Entrepreneur Roundtable to spotlight regional business needs
- Delivered targeted eCommerce training for cottage food and fisheries entrepreneurs
- Joined a multi-agency Homemade Foods Working Group to support local food producers
- Collaborated with JEDC to build a Southeast Eldercare Business Toolkit (expected May 2025)
“The expertise, along with the resources, helps to make you feel supported and that your journey to starting your business does not need to be a solo adventure. Alaska SBDC is worth your time.” – Marisha Bourgeois, Speak-Its
Free, Personalized Support for Alaska’s Small Businesses
Whether you’re launching something new or ready to grow, Sandy at the Juneau SBDC team is here to help you move forward with confidence. As part of the statewide Alaska SBDC network, the Juneau Center offers no-cost, one-on-one business advising and support in areas like:
- Startup assistance
- Funding and financial strategy
- Marketing and sales planning
- Operations and growth strategy
If you’ve ever wondered how to turn an idea into a viable business, or how to take your current business to the next level, Sandy can help you create a plan and take action.
“There is a lot to navigate and learn when starting and growing a business, and SBDC business advisors and resources greatly reduce the barriers to success! Sandy Hussain in particular has been exceptionally helpful!” – Ostrea Marine
Schedule an Appointment with Sandy Today
It’s easy to get started and there’s no cost to you. Book a one-on-one advising session with Sandy or visit the Juneau Center located at 3030 Vintage Blvd, #100 to learn more.
New to the Alaska SBDC?
- Become a client to set up an appointment!
Already an SBDC client? Connect with Sandy:
- Call (907) 463-3789
- Email Juneau@aksbdc.org
Or explore our suite of workshops to take the next step.
For nearly 40 years, the Alaska SBDC has supported small businesses across the state. With Sandy’s leadership, the Juneau Center is stronger than ever and ready to help you build what’s next.