The 2021 Techstars Alaska Startup Week concluded November 12 following five days of programming that drew over 600 attendees from myriad industries and communities across Alaska. Over 60 free events—from business open houses to panel discussions—were offered, featuring the expertise of local entrepreneurs, investors, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, and startup ecosystem builders.
A robust licensing and permitting process offers protection from federal prosecution for the Alaska cannabis industry, but the time and expense of participating in that process has created a market in which licensed businesses are vulnerable to being undercut by black-market prices.
One winner is opening a food cart so she can sell Alaska-raised pork sandwiches. Another will use her prize to jump start her sauerkraut business. And another is making seasoning mixes to sell at the Sitka Farmers Market and outside Harrigan Centennial Hall this summer.
Marketing for new or regenerating companies requires different techniques than for established businesses or even companies operating in a different market like the Pacific Northwest. Professional marketers can help new businesses successfully get out of the starting gate and navigate the marketing landscape during their initial years.