Tagiugmiullu Nunamiullu Housing Authority (TNHA) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

Tagiugmiullu Nunamiullu Housing Authority (TNHA) is a tribally designated housing entity established in 1974, dedicated to addressing the housing needs of the Iñupiat communities in Alaska's North Slope region. Operating as a public corporation under state law, TNHA focuses on developing and managing affordable housing solutions tailored to the unique challenges of Arctic environments. The organization serves eight communities: Anaktuvuk Pass, Atqasuk, Kaktovik, Nuiqsut, Point Lay, Wainwright, Point Hope, and Utqiagvik (formerly Barrow).

Mission and Vision

TNHA's mission is to excel in delivering opportunities for affordable housing that empower, build, and sustain vibrant, self-determined communities on the Arctic Slope for generations to come. This vision underscores a commitment to cultural preservation, economic self-sufficiency, and environmental sustainability.

Industry Significance

As the northernmost tribally designated housing entity in the United States, TNHA plays a pivotal role in addressing the acute housing shortages and unique infrastructural challenges faced by Arctic communities. Its innovative approaches to construction and energy efficiency set benchmarks for sustainable housing in extreme climates.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Affordable Housing Development: Increase the availability of safe, decent, and affordable housing units across the North Slope region.

• Community Empowerment: Foster self-sufficiency and economic independence among residents through homeownership programs and capacity-building initiatives.

• Cultural Preservation: Ensure that housing solutions respect and integrate Iñupiat cultural values and traditions.

Areas of Specialization

• Sustainable Construction: Implement building practices that are energy-efficient and environmentally responsible, suitable for Arctic conditions.

• Infrastructure Development: Address logistical challenges related to construction and maintenance in remote, roadless areas.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Cold-Climate Building Techniques: Utilize methods developed in collaboration with the Cold Climate Housing Research Center to construct homes that are energy-efficient and resilient.

• Renewable Energy Systems: Incorporate solar thermal systems and explore the integration of heat pumps, solar photovoltaic panels, combined heat-and-power systems, and battery storage to enhance energy independence.

Primary Markets and Conditions Targeted

• Remote Arctic Communities: Focus on villages with limited access to resources and infrastructure, where traditional construction methods are often impractical.

• Housing Shortages: Address overcrowded living conditions and the need for additional housing units to accommodate growing populations.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

TNHA has secured various funding sources to support its housing projects, including:

• Indian Housing Block Grant (IHBG): In 2020, TNHA was awarded $4,292,814 through the IHBG Competitive program to support new housing construction and critical infrastructure projects.

• State Grants: Received $1.5 million from the Alaska State Housing Finance Corporation’s Supplemental Grant to support housing initiatives.

• Loans: Secured a $6.8 million Title VI Loan from Wells Fargo Bank, NA, to finance housing development projects.

Utilization of Capital

The capital raised is primarily allocated towards:

• Construction of New Housing Units: Building energy-efficient homes in underserved communities.

• Renovation Projects: Upgrading existing housing to meet modern standards and improve livability.

• Infrastructure Development: Enhancing transportation and logistical capabilities to support construction in remote areas.

Pipeline Development

Key Projects

• Sustainable Northern Shelter (SNS) Homes: Developed 24 single-family homes across six villages, incorporating next-generation technologies for energy efficiency and resilience.

• Renovation of Affordable Housing Complex in Utqiagvik: Renovating a 29-unit complex for tribal members, including electrification of units and integration of combined heat-and-power systems.

Target Conditions

• Energy Efficiency: Design homes to minimize energy consumption and reduce heating costs.

• Cultural Appropriateness: Ensure housing designs align with Iñupiat cultural values and community needs.

Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

• Completion of SNS Homes: All 24 homes were completed by December 2015.

• Utqiagvik Renovation Project: Renovations are ongoing, with six tenants having moved back into renovated units as of the latest update.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

• Integrated Truss System: A prefabricated unit combining exterior walls, floor joists, and roof framing into one structural assembly, allowing for high R-value insulation and expedited construction.

• Skiddable Foundation: An adjustable, movable foundation system that isolates the house from the ground, preventing heat loss into the soil and accommodating permafrost thaw.

Significant Scientific Methods

• Cold-Climate Building Science: Employing building practices developed in collaboration with the Cold Climate Housing Research Center to construct homes suitable for Arctic conditions.

• Renewable Energy Integration: Incorporating solar thermal systems and exploring other renewable energy sources to enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Griffin Hagle-Forster: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

• Professional Background: Former Program Manager for Home Upgrades at North Slope Borough; studied Environmental Journalism at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

• Contributions: Oversees strategic direction and operations of TNHA, focusing on sustainable housing development and community empowerment.

• Allen Hippler: Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

• Professional Background: Over two decades of experience in finance across Alaska; former chair of the City of Bethel finance committee; served on the Bethel City Council; recognized as one of Alaska’s ‘Top Forty under Forty’ in 2009.

• Contributions: Manages financial operations, ensuring fiscal responsibility and supporting TNHA's housing initiatives.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

• Market Size and Growth Potential: The demand for affordable housing in Alaska's rural and Arctic regions is substantial, driven by population growth and housing shortages.

• Industry Trends: A growing emphasis on sustainable and energy-efficient construction methods; increased collaboration between tribal entities and state/federal agencies to address housing needs.

Competitor Analysis

• Aleutian Housing Authority: Provides affordable housing and related services to low-to-moderate-income families throughout the Aleutian Pribilof Islands region.

• AVCP Regional Housing Authority: Serves 50 tribes in a region of western Alaska, offering homeownership programs, affordable rental units, and weatherization services.

• Bering Straits Regional Housing Authority: Develops affordable housing projects in northwest Alaska, serving 17 communities, and provides weatherization services.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

• Cold Climate Housing Research Center: Collaborates on developing building techniques suitable for Arctic conditions.

• Alaska Housing Finance Corporation (AHFC): Partners in providing financing and support for housing projects across Alaska.

Operational Insights

• Competitive Advantages: TNHA's deep understanding of Arctic construction challenges, innovative building techniques, and strong community ties position it as a leader in the region.

• Strategic Considerations: Continuous adaptation to environmental conditions and securing diverse funding sources remain critical for sustaining housing development efforts.