top of page
Search
Writer's pictureEthan Weil

Island Insights: Essential Resources for Thriving Small Businesses in Hawaii



The idea of starting a business crosses the minds of many people. The dream of one day owning and operating a successful business that you can call your own is an incredible feeling! But to get there is not without challenges and roadblocks along the way as there's never a straight path to victory. Especially when starting out, there's often an overwhelming feeling of how to get going or to take things to the next step.


Hawaii is no exception to those dreams as many people work towards building their own businesses.

The fact is, starting a business can be equally rewarding and frustrating to grow.

What shouldn't be a struggle is finding the resources to help you and your business thrive!


Here are some great resources for small businesses and entrepreneurs in Hawaii!


Funding & Accelerators


Hawaii Small Business Administration (SBA) - Our office provides help with SBA services including funding programs, counseling, federal contracting certifications, and disaster recovery. We can also connect you to our partner organizations, lenders, and other community groups that help small businesses succeed.


Hawaii Technology Development Corporation (HTDC)  - HTDC is a dynamic state agency driving Hawaiʻi’s economic diversification by fostering innovation, developing talent, and providing capital. HTDC is accelerating the growth of Hawaiʻi’s tech industry, by creating new job opportunities & possibilities for our island residents.


Blue startups - We are focused on recruiting capital efficient and scalable technology companies, including software, travel tech, and sustainable solutions. Blue Startups is an intensive mentor-driven program. Lean product development and go-to-market strategies are emphasized throughout the program and leveraging our extended international network is encouraged.


Hawaii Angels - $50 Million Invested Since 2002, the Hawaiʻi Angels and our partners have invested private funds in hundreds of scalable early-stage companies based in and out of Hawaiʻi


Ulupono Initiative - We invest, educate and advocate to support locally produced food, renewable energy, and clean transportation.


Startup Capital Ventures - Startup Capital Ventures is an early stage venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California with an office in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. Our geographic focus is Silicon Valley along with selective investments in Hawaiʻi and elsewhere.


Elemental Excelrator - With a focus on environmental sustainability and climate change, Elemental Excelerator seeks to promote fair and equitable access for businesses focused on energy, water, agriculture, mobility, and the circular economy.


Mentoring & Education


SCORE Hawaii - Provides free mentoring and entrepreneur education from volunteer executives.


Hawaii Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - Provides business consulting, training, and workshops to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.


Pacific Asian Center for Entrepreneurship (PACE) - Offers programs and resources for entrepreneurs, including training, mentorship, and access to investors.


University of Hawaii Economic Research Organization (UHERO) - Provides research and data that can help entrepreneurs make informed business decisions.


Chamber of Commerce Hawaii - Networking opportunities, advocacy, and resources for local businesses.


Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism (DBEDT) - Offers resources, funding opportunities, and information on business permits and licenses.


Utilizing Resources


There are an abundance of resources for local businesses here in Hawaii to take advantage of whom are here to help you grow as a business. Utilize the resources provided and beyond through networking with fellow entrepreneurs and small businesses, going to events and contacting people at the organizations to learn more.


And of course we are also here to help your small business and entrepreneurial goals by not only providing you resources and information but also space for your business to thrive amongst other like-minded individuals. If you or your business is in need of an office space, dedicated desk, Coworking space, event space, or conference rooms we have many options to choose from between our two locations. Check out our website at Treehouse Coworking for more information.


We are excited to see more small businesses and entrepreneurs thrive in Hawaii!

Feel free to let us know of any other resources you have found helpful in your journey!








18 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page