top of page
Kupreanoff Island Creek View Mitkof Island photo credit Doris Olsen

PHOTO: DORIS OLSEN

About Chamber

Mission Statement

The Petersburg Chamber of Commerce seeks to promote a strong, diversified economy and improve the quality of life in Petersburg through leadership, service, marketing, and communications.

TOP

Chamber Board Members

PRESIDENT: Sarah Holmgrain

VICE PRESIDENT: James Valentine

SECRETARY & TREASURER: Orin Pierson

MEMBER: Rocio Tejera

MEMBER: James Valentine

MEMBER: Kurt Kivisto

MEMBER: Laura Wong Rose​

MEMBER: Jason Grone

MEMBER: Sam Kernin

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Kelli Slaven

​

​

What We Do

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

We unite businesses, nonprofit groups, and professional people to work together for Petersburg's growth and economic well-being. When our community speaks with one voice, we create meaningful change that benefits everyone. 

CONNECT VISITORS WITH MEMBERS

Through our partnership with the US Forest Service, we jointly operate the Petersburg Visitor Information Center. This ensures our member businesses are prominently featured when thousands of visitors plan their Petersburg adventures each year. 

FOSTER COMMUNITY GROWTH

We coordinate special events and help businesses participate in community activities that draw visitors and support local commerce. Our networking opportunities create valuable relationships among business owners, fostering collaboration and mutual support. 

PROMOTE PETERSBURG

We market Petersburg as an authentic Alaska destination through our business directory, visitor guides, and promotional materials that showcase what makes our community special. 

A Unique Community

Petersburg is Southeast Alaska's remarkable Norwegian fishing town, unlike any other community in the region.

While most Southeast Alaska towns trace their origins to Native heritage, Petersburg stands out as "Alaska's Little Norway"-a thriving Norwegian settlement that has flourished alongside and in respect for the indigenous Tlingit culture that first called these waters home.

 

Our community of 3,100 residents welcomes nearly 50,000 visitors annually who come to experience our authentic character, world-class fishing, and spectacular wilderness access. The narrow Wrangell Narrows leading to Petersburg are too shallow for large cruise ships, which means we remain free from massive crowds while preserving the genuine Alaska experience that visitors cherish.

 

Petersburg serves as the gateway to the magnificent Tongass National Forest-America's largest national forest-offering unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventures and authentic Alaska experiences. 

 

Visit our Chamber Business Member Directory to discover the authentic businesses that make Petersburg special. 

Kiddie Viking Little Norway Festival photo credit Caitlyn Ware

Why Petersburg Works for Business

Authentic Appeal: Visitors come to Petersburg seeking genuine Alaska experiences, creating opportunities for businesses that deliver quality services and authentic hospitality.

 

Year-Round Stability: Our diversified economy-built on fishing, government services, and tourism­provides stability beyond seasonal visitor spending.

 

Strategic Location: Petersburg's central position in Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage makes us an ideal basecamp for tourists exploring the region.

 

Community Character: Our unique blend of Norwegian heritage, Tlingit culture, and thriving arts community creates distinctive appeal that supports diverse business opportunities. 

PHOTO:CAITLYN WARE

Norwegian Dancers Little Norway Petersburg photo credit Caitlyn Ware

Our Partnership Approach

The Chamber believes in collaboration over competition. We work with the US Forest Service, local government, and community organizations to ensure Petersburg remains an attractive place to live, work, and visit.

 

Our members benefit from this collaborative approach through increased visibility, networking opportunities, and participation in a business community that values authenticity and mutual support. 

PHOTO:CAITLYN WARE

Tlingit Gathering for Tlingit Canoe Riders Petersburg photo credit Troy Larson

Join Our Community

Every Chamber member is an investor in Petersburg's future. Whether you're an established business, nonprofit organization, or professional service, we believe that when businesses succeed, the entire community benefits.

 

Ready to learn more?

Discover how Chamber Membership can support your success while contributing to Petersburg's continued prosperity. 

​

Petersburg offers the perfect combination of authentic character, strategic location, and genuine community spirit. 

PHOTO:TROY LARSON

bottom of page