Hi All. I wanted to pass on a message to anyone out there who is involved with an rural Alaska tourism business seeking assistance in launching or growing their business. Here is a note sent out by Dru Garson, Tourism Development Specialist with the State of Alaska:

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Greetings!
 
The Alaska Department of Commerce, Community & Economic Development, Office of Economic Development is pleased to announce the call for applications for the second round of our tourism mentorship program.

The Tourism Mentorship Assistance Program (TMAP) is an 18 month tourism business development program funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration and partners current successful business owners in Alaska’s visitor industry with potential business owners committed to furthering the development of the visitor industry in Alaska’s rural areas.

TMAP will provide potential entrepreneurs with an opportunity to work with experts in the visitor services industry and assist them in developing their marketing, advertising, management and other skills related to developing a tourism business.
 
Currently, we are recruiting entrepreneurs in rural Alaska (lodging/B&B’s & guiding operations are highly encouraged to apply) and successful tourism business owners throughout the state to serve as mentors. Included in this packet are the application materials and a brochure that includes additional information about the program.

If you know anyone interested in this opportunity, please feel free to forward this information to them. Applications are due October 15th, 2008 and can be submitted by mail, email or fax.  If you have any questions about the program or about our services, please feel free to contact us anytime.  And for more information, check out the TMAP website here.

Sincerely,


Dru Garson
Tourism Development Specialist, Office of Economic Development
(907) 465-2162
Dru.garson@alaska.gov

Odin Brudie
Tourism Planner, Office of Economic Development
(907) 465-5466
Odin.brudie@alaska.gov