University Economic Development Association

Network

Launch Alaska

Award Category: Place + Innovation
Project Site: Launch Alaska
Submitted By: University of Alaska Center for Economic Development
Contact: Nolan Klouda , 907.786.5458

Abstract

Launch Alaska provides an intense training program, mentorship, and financing to help early-stage entrepreneurs create scalable ventures. Launch Alaska is modeled after highly regarded accelerators in the Lower 48 such as Techstars in Boulder, Colorado, which has been instrumental in launching high-profile successes such as Uber, the ride-sharing service.

In its first year of operation, Launch Alaska acquired an SBA Accelerator Grant, funded 5 startups, ran a 3-month educational program, built a mentor network with over 40 mentors, helped 3 of its companies get follow-on funding, and funded operations for the next 3 years through a variety of DoD grants.

Finalist Presentation

UEDA Awards of Excellence Finalists presented at the Annual Summit in Long Beach on October 2-3, 2017. Summit attendees then voted for the best initiative in each category.