Slowly but surely things have been getting back to normal around the state with masks being seen less frequently and stores opening up more fully. People are even traveling again!
That’s good news for the small businesses across Alaska that have been hit hard by the last 16 months of lockdowns and economic turmoil. There may not be as many cruise ships this summer as we’re used to, but the individual travelers are coming up to Alaska in droves and that’s helping the hard-hit hospitality industry start its recovery.
It’s not all good news though, we are hearing from many businesses in industries all over the state that there is a significant workforce shortage in Alaska and the rest of the US. I was recently on an Anchorage Chamber panel along with other business leaders to talk about this problem and what it means for the state’s recovery. You can find the details and the video below.
We’re also seeing a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the state due to the arrival of the more virulent Delta variant. The last thing any of us want is to head back into a 2020 style lockdown, so if you haven’t gotten vaccinated, please go get it done!
That being said, we here at the Alaska SBDC are optimistic about the state’s future and the future of the small businesses that power our economy. Alaska’s entrepreneurs have weathered some of the worst economic times in living memory and come out of them stronger and busier than ever. That’s thanks in large part to all of you that came together during these trying times to support buying local and protect the businesses that make our communities vibrant and unique.
The Alaska SBDC is proud to be a part of that effort and we look forward to getting back to normal and just as importantly, back to business!
Jon Bittner
Alaska SBDC Executive Director