Alaska Native Corporations & Their Impact
Since 1971, Alaska Native corporations have provided economic, social and cultural benefits for their shareholders, communities and the greater state of Alaska.
Economic Impact
As Alaska’s number one private employer, Alaska Native corporations generate hundreds of jobs both within and outside the state.
Through dedication and hard work, Alaska Native corporations have grown since their 1971 beginnings to become an integral part of the Alaska economy, operating in a variety of industries:
Construction
Environmental services
Government contracting
Natural resource development
Technology services
Tourism
Real estate
Sustainable foods
Alaska Native regional corporations and their subsidiaries partner with a variety of industries to bring diversity to the Alaska economic landscape and create opportunities that extend far beyond their shareholders and descendants. In addition, Native corporations create new infrastructure in their communities that allow the monetary flow between community and corporation to grow and circulate.
Alaska Native corporations also contribute to statewide nonprofit entities that serve all Alaskans.
The communities of Haines, Ketchikan, Petersburg, Tenakee and Wrangell deserve the same benefits and opportunities as the rest of our Alaska Native communities.
ANCSA History
The Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971 was a revolutionary piece of legislation that ultimately transformed Native ownership and the Alaskan economy at large. By returning 44 million acres of land and $973 million to newly organized Alaska Native regional, urban and village corporations, ANCSA gave Alaska Natives an opportunity to meet the unique needs of their communities while also working in favor of the state's economy, contributing billions of dollars every year to the Alaska gross domestic product.
Youth & Community Impact
Alaska Native corporations provide many resources for the youth in their community. A commitment to future generations is exemplified through the contribution of more than $2 million a year to Alaska Native student scholarships. Paid internships, vocational and trade school assistance, and leadership opportunities are also offered with the prosperity of shareholders and descendants always at the front of mind. These programs help develop real-world skills applicable to their future work while educating descendants on the rich cultural history of Southeast Alaska.
Investing in culture and heritage is also a pivotal aspect of Alaska Native corporations, as they contribute to programs and culture camps that ensure traditional Alaska Native ways of life carry on from generation to generation.
Increasing monetary flow back into the community is another way that Alaska Native corporations positively affect their communities. For example, current Native corporations fund their own heritage foundations that impact people far outside their shareholder base, through the education and consumption of Native goods and culture.