The Southeast Alaska Business Climate Report is the region’s annual survey of business leaders and serves as a benchmark of business confidence across Southeast Alaska. Based on responses from 360 business owners and executives representing approximately 10,000 employees in 20 Southeast Alaska communities, the 2026 report found that the economic outlook improved from 2025, although business confidence remains below historic highs. Employers reported more cautious hiring plans, growing concern about quality of life, and increasing adoption of artificial intelligence to improve business operations. Together, these findings provide a timely snapshot of the issues shaping Southeast Alaska’s economy.
