For many, Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime trip. With just one shot to get it right, planning that trip can be overwhelming. Vast landscapes, long distances, and endless options often lead visitors to choose convenience and checking off bucket list stops, while passing through iconic destinations without truly connecting with the land or its people.

Through research and engagement, CivicBrand uncovered a defining truth: independence isn’t just part of life in The Mat-Su, it’s exactly the kind of Alaska experience many travelers are seeking. We translated that insight into a regional destination brand, brand architecture, and destination management strategy that unites multiple communities while celebrating the unique identity of each town, destination, and asset.

The work also included the CVB’s organizational brand, Mat-Su Made and Mat-Su Grown programs, and visitor stewardship initiatives that encourage more meaningful travel while benefiting local communities.

21

Named Glaciers

25,258

Square Miles

23

Hours of daylight

5

Helicopter flights

The Mat-Su, Alaska

Alaska on your terms

Immersive Engagement

Our engagement process was deep and immersive. We met residents, business owners, tribal leaders, and community leadership where they are. By spending time in their element, across all seasons, we gained a true understanding of their way of life, how it evolves throughout the year, and how tourism impacts their community.

The Mat-Su Brand System

We developed a simple yet deep brand architecture that includes distinct marks for the destination, the CVB, and a suite of civic pride elements like Mat-Su Made, Mat-Su Grown, and the Visitor and CVB Pledges. A flexible badge system also celebrates the many unique communities and assets that make up The Mat-Su, creating a unified yet place-specific brand.

A Two-Way Commitment

We developed two pledges to support a more thoughtful approach to tourism. The Visitor Pledge educates and guides travelers on how to explore The Mat-Su in a meaningful, respectful way that benefits both them and the communities they visit. The CVB Pledge is a promise to the community—to put locals first, shift from marketing to destination management, and ensure tourism reflects and supports the region’s independent spirit.

Supporting What’s Local

We created the Mat-Su Grown and Mat-Su Made programs as tools for local businesses to promote their products and showcase their commitment to the region. These labels help celebrate what’s local while signaling to visitors which goods are grown, made, and rooted right here in The Mat-Su.

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