Summer in Alaska is always a little surreal, especially when it comes to time. It always feels like I write the June, July and August intros about a week apart, not monthly. Something to do with having 24-hour days and cramming as much fishing and hiking into them as possible I suppose. Hopefully you all managed to take some time off from running your businesses to get out and have some fun!
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and if the blooming fireweeds are any indication, fall is just around the corner! As you transition from tourist season to prepping for the holiday rush, I strongly recommend you reach out to your business advisors and touch base. We’ve got a whole host of new tools, training, and other programs that can help you put your best foot forward this winter, economically speaking.
At the very least, you should definitely sign up for a BuyAlaska account if you haven’t already. Their social media content has been amazing lately (especially since they’ve moved on from creating content that focuses on how little I understand social media…). Plus, their annual holiday gift guide is a fan favorite every year!
The State Small Business Credit Initiative crew has also worked hard this summer, ensuring small businesses get the loans they need. During the last 18 months, they’ve facilitated over $100 million in loans to small businesses all over Alaska. In terms of performance, they are head and shoulders above every other program in the nation. Huge thanks to Northrim, First National Bank Alaska, BINW, Spruce Root, Global FCU, and all of the other financial institutions participating in the program to make it a success!
Speaking of successes, as the Summer draws to a close, we’re happy to help support all of the small businesses and industries that make Alaska’s economy such a success, especially the seasonal ones that have such a far-ranging impact on our lives. The Alaska SBDC is thrilled to help our clients in the commercial fishing, construction, tourism, resource extraction, mariculture, agriculture industries, and other areas of our state’s diverse economy.
As always, our team is here to help you and your business with whatever you need to start, thrive, and grow in today’s rapidly changing economic climate. From business plans to funding to market discovery to exit strategies we’ve got the tools and expertise to help your dreams become a reality!
