Alaska Discovery Foundation Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The Alaska Discovery Foundation Inc., operating under the name Discovery Southeast, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Juneau, Alaska. Established in 1989, the organization is dedicated to deepening Southeast Alaskans' connection with nature through education and exploration. Its mission is to foster a better understanding of the natural world and our place within it.

Mission and Vision

Discovery Southeast's mission is to deepen Southeast Alaskans' connection with nature through education and exploration. The organization envisions a community where individuals of all ages appreciate and engage with the natural environment, fostering lifelong interests and stewardship.

Primary Area of Focus

The organization focuses on environmental education, offering programs that introduce children and families to the outdoors, providing the foundation for lifelong interests, skills, and exploration. Their initiatives promote a better understanding of the natural world and our place within it.

Industry Significance

As a non-profit dedicated to environmental education, Discovery Southeast plays a crucial role in fostering environmental stewardship and awareness in Southeast Alaska. By engaging local communities in nature-based education, the organization contributes to the preservation and appreciation of Alaska's unique ecosystems.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Environmental Education: Providing programs that deepen the community's connection with nature.

Community Engagement: Involving local residents in outdoor activities and environmental stewardship.

Youth Development: Offering educational materials and programs for children and families.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Nature Studies: Year-round programs presented in Juneau elementary schools, fostering a relationship with nature in local children.

Stream Restoration: Involving middle school students in the study and restoration of local streams.

Cultural Expeditions: Organizing wilderness canoe trips for Alaska Native youth from Angoon and other villages.

Key Technologies Utilized

While specific technologies are not detailed, the organization collaborates with the U.S. Forest Service to provide educational materials, indicating the use of digital resources and educational technologies.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Local Communities: Engaging residents of Southeast Alaska, particularly children and families.

Educational Institutions: Partnering with schools to integrate environmental education into curricula.

Alaska Native Communities: Providing culturally relevant programs and expeditions.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Discovery Southeast operates as a non-profit organization, primarily funded through donations, grants, and program revenues. Specific details about total funds raised and recent funding rounds are not publicly disclosed.

Total Funds Raised

In the fiscal year ending August 2024, the organization reported total revenues of $1,115,319.

Notable Investors

As a non-profit, Discovery Southeast does not have investors in the traditional sense. Funding sources include individual donors, grants, and program revenues.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds are utilized to support various programs, including educational materials, nature studies, stream restoration projects, and cultural expeditions. Specific allocation details are not publicly disclosed.

Pipeline Development

As a non-profit organization focused on environmental education, Discovery Southeast does not have a product development pipeline in the traditional sense. Instead, the organization continually develops and offers new programs and initiatives to engage the community and fulfill its mission.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

While specific proprietary technologies are not detailed, the organization collaborates with the U.S. Forest Service to provide educational materials, indicating the use of digital resources and educational technologies.

Significant Scientific Methods

Stream Restoration Projects: Involving middle school students in the study and restoration of local streams, applying ecological and environmental science methods.

Cultural Expeditions: Organizing wilderness canoe trips for Alaska Native youth, integrating cultural education with environmental studies.

AI-Driven Capabilities

There is no publicly available information indicating the use of AI-driven capabilities within the organization's programs.

Leadership Team

Key Executive Profiles

Mary Hakala: Board Member

Michelle Martin: Board Member

Molly Box: Board Member

Specific details about their professional backgrounds and roles within the organization are not publicly disclosed.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The environmental education sector in Alaska includes various non-profit organizations dedicated to conservation and education. Discovery Southeast's focus on Southeast Alaska positions it uniquely within this landscape.

Competitor Analysis

Alaska Conservation Foundation: Focuses on sustaining Alaska's wildlife and ecosystems through funding and support.

Alaska SeaLife Center: Dedicated to understanding and maintaining the integrity of Alaska's marine ecosystem through research and public education.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Discovery Southeast collaborates with the U.S. Forest Service to provide educational materials, enhancing its program offerings and outreach.

Operational Insights

Discovery Southeast differentiates itself by offering programs tailored to the unique cultural and environmental context of Southeast Alaska, engaging local communities in meaningful ways.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The organization has opportunities to expand its programs to other Southeast Alaskan communities, develop new educational initiatives, and strengthen partnerships with local schools and indigenous groups to further its mission.