Celebrating veteran entrepreneurs, supporting local businesses, and investing in Alaska’s small business community.
November is National Entrepreneurship Month, a time to recognize the people who turn ideas into businesses and help our communities thrive. In Alaska, that entrepreneurial spirit runs deep, from veteran-owned businesses and family-operated shops to the local services that keep our communities connected.
With National Veterans Small Business Week and Small Business Saturday also taking place this month, November offers plenty of opportunities to celebrate entrepreneurship while helping Alaska businesses prepare for what’s next.
Honoring Alaska’s Veteran Entrepreneurs
Veterans bring valuable experience to entrepreneurship, including leadership, adaptability, problem-solving, and perseverance. Those same skills that serve them in the military can become powerful assets when building and operating a business.
During National Veterans Small Business Week, November 9–13, we’re recognizing the contributions of veteran-owned businesses across Alaska and highlighting resources available to support their success.
The Alaska Small Business Development Center (SBDC) provides free access to online on-demand trainings and workshops for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their spouses. These flexible learning opportunities help military-connected entrepreneurs develop their skills and navigate business ownership at their own pace.
Additional resources, including the SBA’s Veteran-Owned Business Resources and Boots to Business program, offer guidance for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses exploring entrepreneurship.
Supporting Entrepreneurs Beyond the Starting Line
Starting a business is one milestone. Building a business that lasts takes planning, resources, and the right support along the way.
For veterans and other Alaska entrepreneurs, access to capital can play an important role in turning business goals into reality. Alaska SBDC Business Advisors help business owners understand financing options, prepare for conversations with lenders, and plan for sustainable growth.
Looking to strengthen your financial knowledge? Explore our on-demand workshops, Financing Your Business: Lending Resources & Strategies for Success and How to Finance Your Small Business.
Shop Local, Support Alaska
As the holiday shopping season approaches, there’s another meaningful way to support entrepreneurship: choosing local.
Small Business Saturday falls on November 28, reminding us that every purchase from an Alaska-owned business helps support local jobs, families, and communities.
Through BuyAlaska, shoppers can discover Alaska-owned businesses, explore local products and services, and make intentional choices about where their dollars go. Supporting local doesn’t have to be limited to one Saturday, either. Every purchase, recommendation, and shared business post can make a difference.
Let’s Keep Alaska Business Moving Forward
This November, celebrate the veterans building businesses, the entrepreneurs creating opportunities, and the neighbors choosing to shop local.
Whether you’re launching a new venture, exploring financing, or looking for ways to grow, Alaska SBDC is here to help with no-fee business advising, educational workshops, and practical resources.
Connect with an Alaska SBDC Business Advisor and take the next step toward your business goals.