State takes wraps off 'Alaska Business Initiative'

The state Department of Commerce, Community and Economic Development has finally updated its website to mention the “Alaska Business Initiative,” a state-funded marketing and public relations effort.

I’m glad that the Dunleavy administration took the hint I posted in this space last week.

It is now promoting the state marketing website—which was supposed to go live five months ago—with over-the-top claims about the business climate:

“Alaska’s pro-business policies, skilled workforce, and unparalleled connectivity to major markets in North America and Asia make investing in Alaska a smart, strategic choice for growth. The Alaska Business Initiative serves as a partner in navigating the landscape of opportunity, ensuring that businesses across America, and throughout the world, have the support, resources, and network needed to succeed in one of the most dynamic and forward-looking economies. Learn more at www.akbusinessinitiative.org.”

The website is one part of a $3 million Alaska marketing contract between the commerce department and Six-7 Strategies, a consulting firm owned by Kevin Sweeney, a veteran of Alaska politics. The contract could be renewed for a total cost of $9 million through 2030.