Read the latest ANCSA at 50 stories

Signed on Dec. 18, 1971, the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971 (ANCSA) marked a new Congressional approach to federal Indian policy.

Through ANCSA, Congress created the first socially responsible, for-profit corporations tasked with promoting the social, cultural, and economic advancement of their Alaska Native people and communities in perpetuity.

ANCSA divided Alaska into twelve regions defined by the common heritage and shared interests of the Indigenous peoples within each geographic area.

Throughout the year, we will highlight the people and cultures of the 12 regions represented by Alaska Native regional corporations.

Celebrate 50 years of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA) with a documentary produced by the ANCSA Regional Association.

The film looks back at the first 50 years of ANCSA using historical footage and photos and captures a glimpse of what’s to come through interviews with Alaska Native leaders, policymakers, and culture bearers.

This special ANCSA at 50 edition of Alaska Business Magazine highlights successes and stories from economic growth to culture, language, leadership, and ties to our land.

In the 50 years since ANCSA’s passage, Alaska Native people have built successful businesses on a foundation of Alaska Native values.

Alaska Native corporations operate in a variety of industries, bringing diversity to Alaska’s economy and creating opportunities extending far beyond their shareholders and descendants.

The 50th anniversary celebration will feature numerous events to engage with the past, present, and future of ANCSA and Alaska Native corporations. Visit our Events page to find past and future events.

ANCSA also created more than 200 village corporations owned by enrolled Alaska Native shareholders. Today, around 200 village corporations exist separate from the 12 regional corporations.

Alaska Native village and regional corporations work collaboratively with our Alaska tribes, non-profit organizations, and other groups that represent the full set of interests of Alaska Native people.