This EDA investment addresses the energy needs of the unique bering strait region in alaska, which is not connected by traditional road systems and is currently reliant on energy from isolated micro…

The Economic Development Administration awarded Kawerak, Inc., a federally recognized tribal consortium based in Nome, Alaska, $624,874 on May 15, 2026, under the Economic Adjustment Assistance program (CFDA 11.307) to conduct the Kawerak Region Critical Energy Infrastructure Recovery Project.

The project will produce four deliverables addressing the energy infrastructure needs of the Bering Strait region, which lacks traditional road connectivity and currently relies on isolated diesel-powered micro grids. The deliverables are a critical energy infrastructure needs assessment, a regional bulk fuel assessment, a fuel business financial analysis, and a detailed recovery and implementation plan. These outputs will develop cost-effective solutions to support future economic development in the region.

Kawerak, Inc. serves as a tribal consortium representing 20 federally recognized tribes across the Bering Strait, Norton Sound, and Yukon regions of western Alaska. The organization operates as a non-profit established by the Bering Straits Native Association and delivers comprehensive services to Alaska Native communities in remote, underserved areas.

Performance extends through March 31, 2028, with place of performance in Alaska. The assistance type is a Project Grant. The Economic Adjustment Assistance program provides technical, planning, and infrastructure assistance in regions experiencing adverse economic changes, including environmental changes and regulations affecting local economies.

This EDA investment addresses the energy needs of the unique bering strait region in alaska, which is not connected by traditional road systems and is currently reliant on energy from isolated micro grids run by diesel generators. The comprehensive study will develop potential solutions for meeting energy needs in a more cost-effective manner that can support future economic development. The kawerak region critical energy infrastructure recovery project will produce four key deliverables: 1) critical energy infrastructure needs assessment; 2) regional bulk fuel assessment; 3) fuel business financial analysis; and 4) detailed recovery and implementation plan.