From big to small, Alaska Native village corporations are thriving today: Alaska Native Village corporations, succeeding in endeavors in federal contracts and use of natural resources.

• Author: Morgan, Barbara
• Position: Alaska Native: BUSINESS NEWS

Today, 169 Alaska Native Village corporations, formed under the federal Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971, operate from Prince William Sound to the Aleutians to the Arctic Slope, covering the state of Alaska, ranging from as small as 89 shareholders to more than 2,600. Besides investments in real estate and stock/bond portfolios, Native corporations now look to contracting and a variety of business options. With revenue and assets in the millions, these organizations have a huge impact on business in the state of Alaska.

SUCCESS IN FEDERAL CONTRACTING ARENA

Chenega Corp., in the Prince William Sound region, continues to have dramatic success in professional services contracting for the federal government. Chenega placed sixth in Alaska Business Monthly's 2004 "Top 49ers" of Alaska-owned companies, based on FY 2003 gross revenues. The company has doubled revenue growth from 2003 to 2004 and ended up with sales for FY 2004 of $481 million. Significant to the phenomenal growth in 2004 was Chenega's continued expansion into information technology, security and Intel/military operations. "Many of the services we sell are higher end," says Jeff Hueners, chief operating officer, "with top-level scientists, engineers, and various technology labor categories."

All Alaska Native corporations are defined as Indian tribes for purposes of eligibility in the U.S. government's 8(a) program. Chenega owns several 8(a) companies that provide services within the federal market space, including information technology, base operations support, security services, training, logistics, Intel & military operations, telecommunications, environmental services, light manufacturing and hotel management. With 60 contracts in 34 states and seven countries, Chenega continues to build on a solid base of experience and performance. Chenega continues to leverage its 8(a) status by seeking government contracts that remain the core competency of the corporate business model.

Chenega currently has 142 shareholders residing in Chenega Bay, Anchorage, Valdez, Cordova, Tatitlek, Talkeetna and Lower 48 locations.

Chenega's business success has translated into a direct benefit to its shareholders by: increasing the number of job and internship opportunities for shareholders; increasing the number of scholarships available for training shareholders; increasing salaries and benefits paid to shareholders; increasing dividends; providing an elder's dividend benefit; providing a funeral benefit; and increased spending in cultural and community programs.

"The increase of benefits and opportunities for Chenega shareholders is in direct correlation to the financial success of our business enterprises made possible through the...