What Are the 13 Alaska Native Corporations?
In the vast wilderness of Alaska, there exists a unique economic model that has empowered Alaska Native communities for decades. The 13 Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs) are business entities that were established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) of 1971. These corporations have played a pivotal role in preserving the rich cultural heritage of Alaska Native peoples while fostering economic development and self-sufficiency. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of the 13 Alaska Native Corporations, exploring their history, significance, and impact on both the native communities and the state as a whole.
1. Arctic Slope Regional Corporation (ASRC)
Arctic Slope Regional Corporation (ASRC) is one of the largest Alaska Native Corporations, representing the Inupiat people of the Arctic Slope region. ASRC has diversified its portfolio to include oil and gas exploration, engineering, construction, and various support services.
2. Bering Straits Native Corporation (BSNC)
Bering Straits Native Corporation (BSNC) is a regional corporation serving the Yupik, Siberian Yupik, and Inupiaq people of the Bering Strait region. BSNC has interests in government services, construction, tourism, and resource development.
3. Bristol Bay Native Corporation (BBNC)
Bristol Bay Native Corporation (BBNC) represents the Yup’ik and Dena’ina Athabascan people of southwestern Alaska. BBNC has investments in various industries, including construction, mining, petroleum, and real estate.
4. Calista Corporation
Calista Corporation is the regional corporation for the Yup’ik, Cup’ik, and Athabascan people of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region. Calista Corporation’s business interests range from construction and energy services to land management and tourism.
5. Chugach Alaska Corporation (CAC)
Chugach Alaska Corporation (CAC) represents the Chugach Eskimo people of the Chugach region. CAC is involved in industries such as construction, government services, tourism, and natural resource development.
6. Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI)
Cook Inlet Region, Inc. (CIRI) is the regional corporation for the Athabascan, Inupiat, and Yup’ik people of southcentral Alaska. CIRI has investments in real estate, tourism, oil and gas, and telecommunications.
7. Doyon, Limited
Doyon, Limited represents the Athabascan people of interior Alaska. Doyon, Limited has business interests in oil and gas, tourism, natural resource development, and government contracting.
8. Koniag, Inc.
Koniag, Inc. is the regional corporation for the Alutiiq people of Kodiak Island, the Alaska Peninsula, and the Aleutian Islands. Koniag, Inc. has investments in industries such as real estate, natural resources, and government contracting.
9. NANA Regional Corporation, Inc.
NANA Regional Corporation, Inc. represents the Inupiat people of northwest Alaska. NANA has diversified its business portfolio to include industries such as mining, engineering, construction, and government services.
10. Sealaska Corporation
Sealaska Corporation represents the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian people of southeast Alaska. Sealaska Corporation has interests in timber, natural resources, environmental services, and construction.
11. The Aleut Corporation
The Aleut Corporation represents the Unangan (Aleut) people of the Aleutian Islands, the Pribilof Islands, and the Alaska Peninsula. The Aleut Corporation’s business ventures include industries such as construction, maritime services, and real estate.
12. The Eyak Corporation
The Eyak Corporation represents the Eyak people of the Copper River Delta in southcentral Alaska. The Eyak Corporation has diversified its business interests to include industries such as construction, real estate, and government services.
13. The 13th Regional Corporation (T13RC)
The 13th Regional Corporation (T13RC) was created to provide opportunities for Alaska Natives who were not affiliated with the other 12 regional corporations. T13RC focuses on economic development and resource management.
Conclusion
The 13 Alaska Native Corporations have transformed the economic landscape of Alaska Native communities, enabling them to thrive while preserving their cultural heritage. These corporations have diversified their business portfolios, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to the overall development of the state. Through their investments in various industries, the Alaska Native Corporations have not only achieved financial success but also empowered the Alaska Native peoples to take control of their own destinies. The ANCs stand as a testament to the resilience, entrepreneurship, and determination of Alaska Native communities, and they continue to shape a brighter future for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How were the 13 Alaska Native Corporations established?
The 13 Alaska Native Corporations were established under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) of 1971, which aimed to settle land and financial claims of Alaska Natives.
2. What industries do the Alaska Native Corporations operate in?
The Alaska Native Corporations operate in a wide range of industries, including construction, oil and gas, tourism, natural resource development, government services, and real estate, among others.
3. How do the Alaska Native Corporations benefit Alaska Native communities?
The Alaska Native Corporations benefit Alaska Native communities by creating employment opportunities, generating revenue for community development, and preserving cultural heritage through their investments and initiatives.
4. Can non-Alaska Natives work for the Alaska Native Corporations?
Yes, the Alaska Native Corporations employ people from diverse backgrounds, including non-Alaska Natives. They prioritize hiring locally and promoting workforce diversity.
5. How do the Alaska Native Corporations contribute to the overall economy of Alaska?
The Alaska Native Corporations significantly contribute to the overall economy of Alaska through their investments, job creation, tax revenues, and economic development initiatives. They play a vital role in the state’s economic growth and prosperity.