UAF Arctic Innovation Competition

“Even before winning, the process was invaluable; refining our pitch and building a toy-sized model of our foundation system helped bring our idea to life. Pitching to fellow Alaskans who understand the region’s unique challenges made the experience even more meaningful.” - Stacey Fritz, 2025 first place winner, co-founder of Alaska Adaptable Housing LLC.

“I want to do the Arctic Innovation Competition until the end. I gained more public speaking skills, learned how to answer questions on the spot, how to study and create more ideas. My favorite part was seeing the different presentations and how I can improve as I get older.” -Denali Walrath, three-time Cub Division competitor and two-time winner

In 2023, Brad Schmitz, founder of Alaska English Adventures (AEA), entered the UAF Arctic Innovation Competition (AIC) with a vision: to expand his educational tourism business and connect people worldwide through immersive English learning experiences in Alaska. Making it to the Semifinals in the competition’s Main Division reinforced his belief in his mission, shaping the future of his company.

Schmitz would go on to make international connections through his educational initiative. This lead to the ambitious goal of bringing Kenyan students to the Iditarod.