A Statewide, Virtual Program Led by the SBDC Rural Center
The Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Rural Center at the University of Alaska Anchorage is launching the Alaska Entrepreneurship Business Incubator Program, a five-month, statewide, virtual program designed to support Alaskans at any stage of their business journey.
Running from February 12 through June 25, the program provides practical business education, peer learning, and direct support from experienced Alaska SBDC advisors. Entrepreneurs from across the state are encouraged to participate.
This incubator is designed to meet Alaskans where they are, whether they are exploring a new idea, launching a business, or strengthening an existing one.
Who Should Participate
The Alaska Entrepreneurship Incubator Program is open to:
- Aspiring Alaskans exploring a business idea
- New business owners
- Existing business owners looking to refresh or strengthen core business skills
No prior business experience is required.
What Participants Will Gain
Participants will build core business skills in a supportive learning environment, connect with a statewide peer network, access partners and resources, and leave with a clear plan to launch or grow their business.
Program Curriculum Overview
Each month will focus on a different topic and include two sessions held at noon, every other Thursday: a lecture-style workshop followed by a “Mug Up”* session featuring brief insights from a relevant resource provider and an open, facilitated discussion.
- February 12 & 26 – Customer Discovery & Market Analysis
Participants learn how to better understand their customers, community context, and local market realities using practical Alaska-based examples. - March 12 & 26 – Business Models & Business Planning
This month focuses on turning ideas into a clear, realistic business model and understanding how business plans support funding and growth. - April 9 & 23 – Financial Projection
Participants learn how to estimate startup costs, forecast sales, manage cash flow, and plan for seasonality. - May 7 & 21 – Marketing
Marketing is broken into clear strategies and realistic tactics focused on storytelling, trust-building, and customer relationships. - June 11 & 25 – Pitching & Pursuing Funding
Participants prepare a clear business pitch, learn what lenders and funders look for, and funding options, and engage in a next-steps planning session.
How to Register & Key Dates
- Registration opens: January 16, 2026
- Registration closes: February 6, 2026 at 5 pm
- Program runs: February 12–June 25
- Format: Fully virtual. Registration will be hosted online through the Alaska SBDC. Once registered, participants will receive onboarding information and session details by email.
About the SBDC Rural Center
The Alaska SBDC Rural Center provides virtual business advising and training to entrepreneurs across Alaska, with a focus on meeting entrepreneurs where they live and work.
The Rural Center is led by Ruth Wolfe, MBA. Ruth Ruth is an Alaska Native Yup’ik with family ties to Nightmute and Perryville. She is passionate about rural development and sustainable growth, and is dedicated to creating opportunities for future generations. Ruth has a background in Commercial Real Estate, helping small businesses across Alaska with buying, selling, and leasing properties. She offers expertise in financial analysis, marketing strategies, and research support.
* What’s a “Mug Up?” It is a traditional term, especially in the fishing and cannery industries, for a short break to enjoy hot coffee, snacks (like doughnuts, cookies, or pastries), and socialize with fellow workers, offering a moment of rest and camaraderie amidst strenuous work. We invite you to take that same pause, pull up a chair, sip some coffee, and be part of the conversation.
Funding Acknowledgement
This program is funded by an FY24 appropriation through the U.S. Small Business Administration.