The Village of Wainwright is a federally recognized tribe and strives to conserve and develop tribal land and resources pursuant to tribal law, custom, and federal law. It is dedicated to promoting, defending, and protecting the customs and social interests of the Tribal Council and the tribal members of Wainwright, Alaska. The village is eligible for public and private grant monies and engages in government-to-government communications. The village also manages the community food bank, tribal records, and the community’s child care center.
The City of Wainwright is responsible for municipal administration, recreation, boat harbors, community center, playground, ice cellars, and cemeteries. Wainwright is a second-class city within the North Slope Borough and is funded by state allocation, grants, donations, and other sources. The city operates a grant-funded youth program, summer youth cultural camp, and homemaker services for elders. The city hosts several recreational and community cultural events throughout the year, including the 4th of July games and Christmas games, Piuraagiaqta (Spring Whaling Festival), and gaming/pull tabs.
Olgoonik Corporation is the Alaska Native village corporation for Wainwright, established as a for-profit corporation in accordance with the provisions of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act. Olgoonik is the owner of approximately 175,000 acres of land in and around Wainwright, most of which is undeveloped land used for subsistence and other traditional and customary uses by residents of Wainwright and managed by Olgoonik for the benefit of its shareholders. In Wainwright, Olgoonik Corporation operates the OC Hotel & Restaurant, fuel station, worker camp, and the OC Office. Olgoonik provides shareholder benefits such as dividends, scholarships, and bereavement assistance.