Starting a
Business

Alaska offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the country, with a streamlined regulatory structure, no statewide sales tax, and no personal income tax.

Starting a business here is straightforward, whether you are launching a new venture, expanding an existing company, or relocating operations to the state. This page brings together practical links and trusted resources to help entrepreneurs navigate the early steps of starting a business in Alaska – from financing and licensing to tax obligations – so you can get up and running with confidence.

Marketwide Resources

Alaska provides a wide range of incentives and financing options designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage, including state-backed loan programs and community development financial institutions. The links below connect you to capital programs that can help fund startup costs, expansion, equipment purchases, and working capital needs.

For additional information visit aksbdc.org

Additional incentives available include:

Agricultural Revolving Loan Fund (ARLF)
Commercial Fishing Loan
Loan Guarantee Program-UAA-Small Business Development Center
Child Care Grant Program
Commercial Fishing Loan Program
Power Project Fund (PPF) Loan Program
Loan Participation Program
Rural Development Initiative Fund Loan Program
Bulk Fuel Revolving Loan Fund
Fisheries Enhancement Loan Program

Most businesses in Alaska can complete licensing and registration requirements efficiently through state systems, with additional permits tailored to specific activities and industries. This section highlights key licensing resources to help ensure your business is properly authorized and compliant from day one.

Corporations licensing
Business licensing
Professional licensing
Alaska license search
Commercial fishing
licenses and permits
Mining, Land, and Water
operating permits
Food establishment
permits and resources
Hunting guide
requirements
Big Game Commercial Services
professional licensing
Alaska State Parks
Non-Competitive Park Use Permits for Commercial Activities
6-Pack License
(US Coast Guard) or Operator of Uninspected Passenger Vessel (OUPV) for charter fishing, whale watching, SCUBA diving, and tour cruises carrying six passengers or less
State of Alaska - Plan Review Bureau:
Building Occupancy Certification

Alaska's tax structure is uniquely favorable to businesses. The resources below provide guidance on business tax setup, filing requirements, payroll taxes, and available credits or deductions so you can stay compliant and plan effectively.

Tax information on starting a business
(Internal Revenue Service)
Definitions: Corporation, S Corporation, LLC, Sole Proprietor, Partnership
(Internal Revenue Service)
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
What is it, and how to get one
IRS credits and deductions for your business
Filing and paying business taxes
(Internal Revenue Service)
Employment Security Tax
Alaska Department of Revenue - Tax Division Programs
State sales taxes in Alaska by city, municipality, or borough
Find out everything about payroll taxes
IRS requirements if you close your business
IRS requirements if you file bankruptcy
Alaska Business Development Center Volunteer Tax and Loan Program
Taxpayer Advocate for help with an IRS problem
(Internal Revenue Service)
Take a classroom course on business tax returns or payroll taxes

Industry
Resources

Some industries face specialized regulations, permitting processes, or financing opportunities that go beyond general business requirements. This section connects entrepreneurs, investors and small business owners to targeted resources organized by industry, offering more detailed guidance tailored to Alaska's key economic sectors. As Alaska's economy continues to grow and diversify, these industry-specific tools can help businesses take advantage of sector-specific opportunities.

Alaska Native Corporations

Additional
Resources

The following third-party organizations provide hands-on support for Alaska's small businesses and entrepreneurs. From startup acceleration and access to capital to workforce, technology, and energy-sector development, these resources offer practical tools and specialized expertise to help businesses start, scale, and succeed across Alaska's highly competitive economic landscape.