AIDEA, Alaskans are watching Published January 12 Share on Facebook Print article Most Alaskans weren’t paying attention to the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) until last spring, when this entity became one of the first pandemic profiteers, conducting a shady financial transfer of $35 million of state funds to the Ambler road project. Dozens of Alaskans called in to the virtual meeting in good faith, asking instead for direct support for businesses struggling in the pandemic. Regardless, AIDEA’s board of directors voted unanimously to make the transfer and continues to celebrate its involvement in the Ambler road project, despite local opposition and questions surrounding its economic and social impacts. Last week, AIDEA drew increased attention by bidding on Arctic National Wildlife Refuge leases, one of only three entities to do so. This investment is an embarrassment to Alaskans and a clear sign that AIDEA does not aim to diversify the economy as their mission states. All eyes are now on AIDEA.