May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, a time to celebrate these communities’ rich cultural tapestry and significant contributions. In Alaska, AANHPI businesses are a vibrant part of the economic landscape, crucial to our state’s diverse offerings.
The National Impact of AANHPI Businesses
Nationally, AANHPI-owned businesses are a powerful economic force. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are over 5.4 million Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander-owned businesses in the U.S., generating trillions of dollars in revenue annually.
In Alaska, 8.4% of our population identifies as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander, according to the U.S. Census Bureau estimate in July 2023, representing a significant 3.4% increase since the 2020 Census. There is no question that AANHPI-owned businesses contribute significantly to job creation and innovation across various industries.
Supporting AANHPI Businesses in Alaska: The Alaska SBDC’s Role
The Alaska SBDC is committed to empowering all Alaskan small businesses, including those owned by AANHPI entrepreneurs. We understand the unique challenges these businesses face and offer a range of resources and services specifically tailored to their needs. The Alaska SBDC can help AANHPI businesses thrive via:
- No-fee Business Advising: Our experienced advisors can provide guidance on various aspects of running a successful business, from developing a business plan to marketing and financial management.
- Marketing Expertise: We understand the importance of reaching target audiences effectively. Our advisors can help AANHPI businesses develop marketing strategies that resonate with their specific customer base.
- Networking Opportunities: We connect AANHPI businesses with other entrepreneurs, potential partners, and resources within the state.
- Access to Capital: We can help AANHPI businesses explore financing options to support their growth aspirations.
Finding AANHPI Businesses in Alaska
Looking to support AANHPI businesses in your community? Look no further than BuyAlaska! This valuable resource allows consumers to search for Alaskan businesses by category and location. You can utilize search terms related to specific Asian, Native Hawaiian, or Pacific Islander products or services to find these businesses at https://buyalaska.com/alaska-business-directory/.
While May is AANHPI Heritage Month, the Alaska SBDC is committed to supporting AANHPI businesses year-round. We encourage everyone to explore the diverse offerings of AANHPI businesses in Alaska and celebrate their contributions to our state’s economic and cultural vibrancy.
Let’s work together to empower AANHPI entrepreneurs and ensure their businesses flourish in the Last Frontier.