Alaska Native Corporations Support Energy Projects Through Federal Contracting

Alaska Native corporations created under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act participate in the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program. The program allows these private, for-profit companies to compete for federal contracts in logistics, engineering, infrastructure support, and cybersecurity.

Revenue from the contracts returns to Alaska through reinvestment in scholarships, healthcare, small businesses, and essential services. The corporations operate in both rural and urban communities across the state.

Energy production on the North Slope relies on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and a supporting workforce. Projects such as Pikka Phase 1 are nearing first oil, while Willow is advancing toward development. Recent leasing activity in the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska showed renewed investor interest.

These projects require stable policy, aligned stakeholders, and a broad economic base. The corporations are described as a vital part of that economic base. Proposals to restrict their participation in the 8(a) program are presented as carrying risks for investment conditions and long-term production.

Steve Wackowski is the president and CEO of the Alaska Oil and Gas Association. Connor Hajdukovich is the executive director of the Resource Development Council for Alaska.