Chamber Academy - AIDEA and Access to Capital

Overview of Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) programs and tools for financing businesses in Alaska. AIDEA has a number of financial tools that support business activity in the state. This session will outline those tools and allow participants a better understanding of how they can access financing tools available through AIDEA.

SPEAKER: Michael Catsi, Business Development and Communications Director, Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA)

Appointed to this position in 2010, Mr. Catsi pursues business development opportunities, oversees the Authority's communications, and assists clients through the Authority's intake process in partnership with AIDEA's finance and development staff. Michael serves as the Chair of AIDEA's Project Suitability Committee, and as a member of AIDEA's project review committees.

Prior to joining the Authority, Michael led economic development organizations as executive director of the Southwest Alaska Municipal Conference and the Skagway Development Corporation. Michael currently serves as President of the Alaska Manufacturing Extension Partnership, and as a member of the Advisory Board for the Launch:Alaska business accelerator. Michael has served as president of the Alaska Partnership for Economic Development, was elected to the Skagway City Council, and served on the board of the Alaska Municipal League.

Michael graduated from the University of New South Wales, Australia with a Bachelor of Science in Geography, and he is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD).

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This lunch-time educational seminar is geared towards business owners, entrepreneurs and young professionals. Community experts present on a variety of topics. Subjects may include anything from down-to-earth "how-to's" and "best practices" to more abstract topics like collecting and leveraging data, and exploring what it takes to create an inviting and productive work environment.