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NIMA Corporation: Empowering Our Cup’ig Community through Economic Growth and Cultural Preservation

Discover how NIMA Corporation leverages the legacy of ANCSA to foster economic growth and cultural preservation for the Cup’ig community on Nunivak Island, Alaska.

cup'ig ladies with what appears to be fish

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Nunivak Island, Alaska, we at NIMA Corporation are proud to serve as a beacon of hope and progress for the Cup’ig Eskimo community. Since our establishment in 1973 under the landmark Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), we have played a crucial role in driving economic development and safeguarding the cultural heritage of the Cup’ig people.

ancsa map

Image Source: Alaska Public Media

Understanding the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA)

To truly appreciate our impact at NIMA Corporation, it’s essential to understand the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), the legislative foundation upon which we were built. ANCSA was enacted to resolve long-standing land disputes between the U.S. government and Alaska Natives, foster economic opportunities, and enable self-determination. While the act extinguished aboriginal title to lands in Alaska, it provided land conveyances and financial compensation to Alaska Native corporations. This historic legislation empowered corporations like ours to become significant economic players, creating opportunities for lasting prosperity within our communities.

With this context in mind, let’s explore how we have leveraged ANCSA to empower our shareholders—the Cup’ig people—while preserving our rich cultural traditions.

nima corporation swearing in board members 2013

Our Mission: Economic Empowerment and Cultural Stewardship

Our mission at NIMA Corporation reflects a dual commitment to economic empowerment and cultural preservation. On the one hand, we are dedicated to fostering sustainable economic growth and creating opportunities for the Cup’ig people of Nunivak Island. This commitment to economic empowerment is evident in our efforts to generate jobs, support local businesses, and invest in ventures that benefit our shareholders. On the other hand, we are deeply committed to our role as cultural stewards, ensuring that the traditions, language, and customs of the Cup’ig people are preserved and celebrated for future generations.

This dual mission guides our activities and investments, laying the foundation for our strategic structure and growth.

Strategic Structure and Growth: A Diverse Portfolio for a Strong Future

We have positioned NIMA Corporation as a parent, investment, and holding company with a diverse portfolio of subsidiaries contributing to our economic and cultural goals. Our key subsidiaries include NIMA Store Inc., Nash Harbor Solutions, Etolin Strait Development Group, and Integrated Training Support Solutions (ITSS). These subsidiaries play vital roles in various sectors, from retail and logistics to development and training services. By diversifying our operations, we ensure economic stability and open up new growth opportunities, helping us thrive in an ever-evolving economic landscape.

Looking ahead, we plan to expand our portfolio further, seeking new opportunities aligning with our economic empowerment and cultural preservation mission. This growth strategy underscores our commitment to building a brighter, more prosperous future for the Cup’ig people.

A Bright Future: Resilience and Self-Determination

We stand as a symbol of the resilience and self-determination of the Cup’ig community. We reflect our shareholders’ strength, resourcefulness, and deep cultural connection through our unwavering commitment to economic development and cultural stewardship. As we continue to navigate the challenges of modern economic development, we remain steadfast in our mission to uplift the Cup’ig people and ensure that our culture thrives alongside our growing economic success.

This bright future is not merely a vision—it is a reality we build daily through strategic investments, cultural initiatives, and a deep commitment to the well-being of our Cup’ig community.

If you’re interested in learning more about our initiatives or want to support the Cup’ig community, we encourage you to reach out. Please fill out the contact form on our website, and a member of our team will get back to you promptly. Whether you have questions about our economic ventures, cultural preservation efforts, or general inquiries, we’re here to connect with you.

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