Frequently Asked Questions

The Spruce Root Path to Prosperity Business Competition aims to support business ideas in Southeast Alaska that will increase local employment, have a positive social and economic impact on their communities, and promote sustainable use of local resources. Path to Prosperity programs will also increase entrepreneurial skills and business leadership in Southeast Alaska.

why the path to prosperity program and competition? 

When is the application due?

Applications open April 1, 2025, and are due by 11:59 p.m. May 30, 2025.

Who is eligible? 

This year’s competition cycle is open to businesses based in Southeast Alaska that intend to have a positive social, ecological and economic impact on their communities. Entries can be for a new business startup, diversification of an existing business, or extension of a current business activity. This year’s competition cycle is open to Alaska Native individuals. Entries can be for a new business or an expansion of a current business.

Please reach out to us if you have additional questions about eligibility.

Yes, we are happy to provide assistance and feedback for crafting a competitive application. If you would like support filling out this application, please reach out to our team no later than May 23rd, at the link here.

Business ideas may include a new business or an expansion of an existing business. Note that 501(c)3 nonprofits are not eligible. Applicants must be Southeast Alaska residents.

We especially encourage participation from entrepreneurs residing in smaller communities in Southeast Alaska.

what do finalists and winners receive? 

Twelve finalists will attend our Business intensive in-person training in Anchorage from September 30 to October 3, where they will receive technical assistance in writing a business plan and work with a variety of business specialists and service providers. Two businesses will then be selected as winners, and each will receive an award of up to $20,000. Awards can be used for any expense that will increase the entrepreneur’s capacity to run the business and/or grow the business in the medium to long term, but may not be used for debt or immediate operational expenses (i.e. payroll, rent, etc.).

What do you mean by STEM and TEK?

We are partnering with Launch Alaska and the Alaska Native Science and Engineering Program (ANSEP) to provide specialty programming for entrepreneurs who have businesses related to Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) and/or Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) at our Entrepreneur Camp training in Anchorage. 

Southeast Alaska offers many opportunities for STEM businesses. Examples include: 8(a) contracting for small and Indigenous-owned enterprises, natural resource management using LiDAR technology, tidal energy products designed for rural communities, heat pump installation, fishing fleet electrification, and more.

This programming will be offered as an optional track to entrepreneurs that self-identify as having a business in one of these focus areas. Entrepreneurs who do not have STEM- or TEK-related businesses are eligible to apply and participate in the competition. 

Why is the Path to Prosperity Business Competition focusing Alaska Native-owned Businesses?

The focus on Alaska Native entrepreneurs aligns with our commitment to fostering economic growth and cultural resilience within Southeast Alaska's Indigenous communities. By centering the competition on Alaska Native people, we aim to:

  • Support entrepreneurship within Indigenous communities.

  • Empower businesses that reflect and sustain Native culture, values, and traditional knowledge.

  • Provide resources and opportunities tailored to the unique strengths and needs of Shareholder entrepreneurs.

Our other workshops including Business Basics, Master Class, and Financial Wellness remain open to all residents of Southeast Alaska. Check out our upcoming opportunities on our homepage.

Yes, we are happy to provide assistance and feedback for crafting a competitive application. If you would like support filling out this application, please reach out to our team no later than May 23, at the link here.

Can I receive assistance with my application?  

To find out more and ask any questions, contact us.

This is an Equal Opportunity Program. Discrimination is prohibited by Federal Law.