In 1986, bipartisan legislation was passed which allowed Alaskan Native Corporations (ANC), Hawaiian Native Corporations and Lower 48 Tribes to participate in the Small Business Administration's 8(a) program, which creates opportunities for minority owned small businesses to obtain government contracts. ANC participation in the 8(a) program has been a huge success and is creating economic opportunities as Congress intended. Through the program, community based enterprises function as an economic driver for Alaska Natives and Alaska small businesses, thus empowering organizations to provide benefits to entire communities and regions throughout our state.
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Rep. Young will continue to work so that all regional and village Alaska Native Corporations are able to participate in the 8(a) program and create economic opportunity for their shareholders. He believes it is important that the United States keep its promises to Alaskan Natives and will do everything in his power to ensure the government honors its promises so that Alaska Natives can work to better their lives while maintaining their cultural heritage.