The Alaska Small Business Development Center is proud to announce that Executive Director Jon Bittner has been named a 2025 Achievement in Business Leadership honoree by the Alaska Journal of Commerce.
This award, sponsored by Northrim Bank, recognizes visionary professionals across Alaska who exemplify innovation, integrity, and a deep commitment to service within their industries and communities. Jon’s selection reflects his exceptional impact on Alaska’s small business ecosystem and his forward-thinking approach to statewide economic development.
As Executive Director of the Alaska SBDC at the University of Alaska Anchorage, Jon has led transformative initiatives that have directly supported businesses in every corner of the state. His efforts have redefined what’s possible for small business support in Alaska, especially in rural and underserved communities.
Under Jon’s leadership in the past year alone, the Alaska SBDC:
- Advised over 1,500 businesses across 131 communities
- Helped raise more than $40.7 million in new capital for Alaska entrepreneurs
- Supported the launch of 124 new businesses and over 3,200 jobs
- Delivered 115 training opportunities to more than 1,500 Alaskans
- Built the nation’s largest Tribal SSBCI consortium with 125 Alaska Native Tribes
- Became the only SBDC in the nation to house both a state and tribal SSBCI program, overseeing $142 million in funding
- Launched the first AI Resource Program under an SBDC in the United States
- Expanded BuyAlaska, connecting over 1,000 local businesses to over 1 million potential customers through strategic cruise line partnerships
Beyond the numbers, Jon’s work is grounded in service to entrepreneurs, to community, and to the future of Alaska’s economy. His efforts have helped shape national small business policy, build new funding pipelines for Alaska Native entrepreneurs, and ensure that innovation and access go hand-in-hand.
Prior to leading the Alaska SBDC, Jon served as Deputy Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, and as Vice President of the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation. He has also been an active contributor to organizations including the Anchorage Community Land Trust, the Anchorage School District, Anchorage Downtown Rotary, and continues to mentor young entrepreneurs across Alaska.
“Jon’s vision has not only elevated the Alaska SBDC to exceed national standards but also positioned Alaska at the forefront of small business innovation.” – The Alaska SBDC Team
We’re honored to see Jon recognized among Alaska’s most impactful leaders. The award ceremony took place on June 24, 2025, celebrating 24 outstanding business and nonprofit professionals from across the state.
Learn more about the honorees: https://www.achievementinbusiness.com/#honorees