KEDC UPDATES
Join the KEDC Board and Shape Kodiak’s Future
Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) seeks dedicated community members to join its Board of Directors, a volunteer role focused on shaping Kodiak’s economic future. KEDC drives growth through housing solutions, workforce development, and business support. Residents from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Learn how KEDC strengthens our island and how you can contribute.
Kodiak’s Economic Future: Inside the First ROCE Workshop
Kodiak’s economic development ignited at the first ROCE workshop on March 13, 2025. Hosted by KEDC, it sparked community solutions and collaboration. Read the recap and learn how to sponsor or join the next event!
Kodiak’s Downtown Revival: SIP’s Economic Impact Grows
Discover how SIP drives Kodiak's downtown revival, with 5 local businesses adding $79,285 of their own. KEDC's program boosts economic impact. Learn more!
Strengthening Kodiak’s Future: The ROCE Workshop Series Kicks Off
The first workshop, held at the beautiful Kodiak Marketplace, will be held March 13th from 10 to 4. Register now: kodiakedc.com/workshop
KEDC Showcases Robust Economic Development Efforts at Kodiak City Council Work Session
KEDC Showcases Robust Economic Development Efforts at Kodiak City Council Work Session
On February 25, 2025, Melissa Schoenwether, Executive Director of the Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), delivered a compelling presentation at the Kodiak City Council Work Session, highlighting the organization’s impactful initiatives and its unwavering commitment to strengthening Kodiak’s economy.
Kodiak’s Mariculture Industry is Growing: Here’s How KEDC is Supporting It
Kodiak’s Blue Economy thrives as KEDC drives sustainable mariculture growth. Partnering with the University of Alaska Anchorage via a USDA grant, we’re crafting a business plan to expand kelp and oyster farming in Southwest Alaska, solidifying Kodiak’s role in sustainable seafood.
Revitalizing Downtown Kodiak: A Community Effort for a Brighter Future
Revitalizing Downtown Kodiak: A Community Effort for a Brighter Future
Downtown Kodiak’s revitalization is underway! KEDC’s Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) tackles aging infrastructure and boosts our economy. A vibrant downtown means jobs, pride, and visitors—join our community effort for a brighter future. Learn more at kodiakedc.com!
KEDC Q2 REPORT
KEDC is pleased to share the Quarter 2 Report, which encompasses the activities, programs, and continued work from April-June 2024 for KEDC.
Career Expo & Job Fair 2024
Kodiak Economic Development Corporation partnered with Kodiak Island Borough School District, organizations, and employers to provide Career Expo 2024: Onward & Upward for high school students at KHS, AKTEACH, and rural schools.
KEDC Housing Discussion and Steering Committee Formation
Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) held a Housing Discussion on February 14, 2024 to bring housing, banking, municipal and community leaders together for a working lunch meeting to discuss the challenges and opportunities with addressing the need for more affordable housing.
Storefront Improvement Program Grant Awardees Announced
Storefront Improvement Program Grant Awardees Announced. Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), in partnership with the Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA), and the City of Kodiak, developed the Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) to help continue to revitalize Kodiak’s Downtown.
KEDC Board of Directors 2024
“I am honored by my selection to serve on the Kodiak Economic Development Corporation board of directors.”
KEDC joins Main Street America
City of Kodiak Mayor Pat Branson, a long time participant and supporter in the Main Street Kodiak program stated, “I am pleased to endorse KEDC’s efforts to restart the Main Street Kodiak program. The City of Kodiak in partnership with KEDC are committed to revitalizing Kodiak’s downtown area. KANA's new Kodiak Marketplace has created an anchor for the downtown that, combined with the Main Street program and the Storefront Improvement Program, will create a vibrant, exciting and attractive downtown retail environment.”
KEDC’s 2023 End of Year Report
From efforts in Spring that supported Workforce Development through Career Expo and Job Fair, to growing KEDC’s staff, and supporting the beautification, accessibility, and safety of Downtown Kodiak through the Storefront Improvement Program, Kodiak Economic Development Corporation has worked hard in 2023 for the community of Kodiak. Read about the work we are doing in these areas and more; download the End of Year Report
Alaska Aquaculture Update
The Alaska Department of Labor & Workforce Development released the December 2023 issue of Alaska Economic Trends which takes a comprehensive look at the growing aquaculture industry in Alaska.
October 2023 jobs up 2.1%
October’s statewide job count was up by 6,500, or 2.1 percent, from October 2022. Health care added 1,400 jobs, with the strongest growth in hospitals. Leisure and hospitality was up by 1,000 jobs over the year, with most growth in restaurants and bars. Professional and business services added 700 jobs, and the transportation, warehousing and utilities sector and mining (which includes oil and gas) both added 600.
KEDC on KMXT
KMXT invited KEDC to discuss the Storefront Improvement Program on Talk of The Rock. During the informative conversation topics ranging from the SIP matching grant program to Community Land Trust, Workforce Development, Career Expo 2024, and the Coast Guard Expansion were part of the interview.
September Jobs Increased From 1 Year Ago
September’s statewide job count was up by 6,600, or 2.0 percent, from September 2022 according to date released from the Department of Labor and Workforce Development .