Frequently Asked Questions
A virtual workshop that will provide a dedicated space for Alaskan entrepreneurs to gather for meaningful conversation and strategic planning around how to navigate an uncertain future. Attendees will engage with business, marketing and finance experts, participate in panel discussions, and connect with other small business owners across Southeast Alaska.
What is Master Class?
What is the cost?
The cost of this workshop is $75. Any applicant that finds the fee to be a financial burden may request a waiver by emailing grow@spruceroot.org.
why should I apply?
Participants will emerge from the workshop with a growth plan plan, inside knowledge from financial and strategic planning experts, and a network of mentors, community partners, and Alaskan business owners.
What is the time commitment for the workshop?
The workshop will take place virtually from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM March 16-18, 2021. The exact workshop schedule is tentative, and is subject to change.
Will session recordings be available for those who are interested but don’t have the time to participate?
We may make some session recordings and other resources available to the public but the grant awards are prioritized for those who attended the workshop in its entirety. There will also be future opportunities to attend this and other similar Master Class workshops, so if the timing of this one doesn’t work for you, please get on our mailing list so that you can be informed of future workshops.
Who should apply?
Southeast Alaskan entrepreneurs who have been operating, or actively selling their product or service to customers, for at least one year. Entrepreneurs who are Black, Indigenous, people of color, and/or who are located in rural Alaska (not Juneau or Sitka) are encouraged to apply! Sealaska shareholders that have been operating a business for one year or longer in any location are also encouraged to register.
Are larger, well-established businesses eligible to participate?
Yes! In fact, they are encouraged to participate, as long as they have 50 employees or fewer. Master Class was created to make space for experienced entrepreneurs to reflect, reaffirm, and strategize on their business, as well as to be an opportunity to network and share the depth of their experiences that have come from many years in business. Businesses with 50 employees or fewer, and more than one year in operation are welcome to apply.
While priority will be given to businesses with a completed business plan, businesses without a business plan are eligible to register.
My business does not have a business plan. Am I still eligible to participate?
Are nonprofits eligible?
No, only for-profit businesses are eligible to participate in the workshop and receive the grant funding.
If I have not yet been operational for a full year, am I eligible to participate?
No, businesses must have one full year of operational experience in order to be eligible. Businesses that have less than one year of experience are encouraged to attend our Business Basics workshop, to apply for the Path to Prosperity competition in 2022, or to work one-on-one with one of our business coaches by signing up here.
To find out more and ask any questions, contact us.
This is an Equal Opportunity Program. Discrimination is prohibited by Federal Law.