Honolulu’s small business community is the backbone of our local economy, contributing to job creation and the unique character of our city. Entrepreneurs seeking support have access to a variety of resources designed to foster growth and resilience.
Key Resources for Small Businesses
Oʻahu Business Connector (OBC)
The Oʻahu Business Connector is an initiative by the City and County of Honolulu’s Office of Economic Revitalization. OBC connects small businesses with nonprofits, government partners, and support organizations to help them grow and create jobs. The program offers personalized assistance through Resource Connectors who provide tailored support to businesses. Additionally, OBC hosts events, seminars, and provides an online directory to help businesses find resources that meet their specific needs. More information is available at Oʻahu Business Connector.
Hawaiʻi Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The Hawaiʻi SBDC offers a wide range of services to business owners, including financial performance review and analysis, business planning and strategy, capital formation and funding, market positioning, growth strategies, acquisitions, ownership transition, and commercialization of new strategies. The Honolulu office is located at 2800 Woodlawn Drive, Suite 299, and can be reached at (808) 945-1430. More details can be found at Hawaiʻi SBDC.
YWCA Oʻahu’s YWahine in Business
YWCA Oʻahu’s YWahine in Business serves as Hawaiʻi’s premier resource for entrepreneurs, providing a comprehensive suite of services under one organization. Their mission is to empower people in business through essential technical assistance, fostering business development, growth, and access to capital. More information is available at YWahine in Business.
Success Stories: Local Entrepreneurs Thriving
Choco leʻa
Erin Kanno Uehara, owner of Choco leʻa, was named Honolulu County’s 2022 Small Business Person of the Year. Starting from a small operation in her home, Erin expanded her artisan dark chocolate truffle business to a 1,000-square-foot retail space. Despite challenges during the pandemic, she persevered by publishing a book, creating a membership subscription, and collaborating with other local businesses to give back to the community. Her story exemplifies resilience and innovation in Honolulu’s small business landscape. Read more about her journey at Choco leʻa Success Story.
Little Vessels Donut Co.
During the 2023 Small Business Saturday in Kaimuki, Little Vessels Donut Co. experienced a surge in demand, selling all 500 of their handmade, plant-based donuts. Owner Sachi Maclachlan described the event as “crazy, like non-stop line, hustle,” highlighting the community’s support for local businesses. This success underscores the importance of community engagement and the potential for growth even in challenging times. More details can be found at Small Business Saturday in Kaimuki.
These resources and success stories illustrate the vibrant and supportive environment for small businesses in Honolulu. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to leverage these opportunities to foster growth and contribute to our community’s economic vitality.