A new federally funded two-year initiative is in the works that aims to help Hawaii’s smallest businesses and nonprofits access federal funds at no cost, with the support of on-island experts in financial, legal, and accounting. Hiring of those experts is underway for individuals and small companies.
These contractors will be compensated up to 20 hours per week to support businesses and nonprofits applying for federal funds. While experience with federal funding projects is ideal, it’s not required. Technical providers help business and nonprofit applicants by reviewing applications, advising, and supporting the preparation of the necessary application documents. Grant writers are not funded by this program.
Backed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, the BizBoost program will provide professional guidance to businesses and nonprofits with fewer than 10 full-time employees. The goal is to bolster the local economy, improve access to capital, and open doors to federal funding opportunities.
The initiative is led by the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii in partnership with Hawai‘i Technology Development Corporation (HTDC) and a statewide network of chambers, economic development boards, and technical assistance providers, so that interested organizations can get support from experts on their island.
“This partnership with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii for the SBOP Technical Assistance program represents a significant step forward in our mission to support small businesses, very small businesses, and SEDI (Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals). Together, we are committed to providing the resources and opportunities these businesses need to thrive and contribute to Hawaii's vibrant economy." Trung Lam, HTDC Executive Director
BizBoost is geared to serve eligible businesses and nonprofits in these categories:
- Very small businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs with less than 10 full-time employees
- Native Hawaiian- and minority-owned businesses
- Rural and underserved business communities
- Socially and economically disadvantaged (SEDI)-owned businesses
- Businesses impacted by the Aug. 2023 Maui wildfires
- Individuals such as entrepreneurs seeking help with federal funding opportunities
BizBoost also supports organizations without traditional banking access and immigrant-owned businesses in need of language assistance.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, but many don’t have the resources to navigate complex funding systems,” said Sherry Menor, Chamber of Commerce Hawaii President & CEO. “BizBoost brings real, trusted support directly into their hands—especially those in rural and underserved communities.”
A key feature of the program is the Hawai‘i Business Assistance Marketplace, launching online on Tuesday, September 2, where businesses can connect with vetted service providers. In-person business resource fairs will be held on Nov. 13 and Feb. 12 to offer additional support.
For more information, visit and watch the informational video:
https://www.cochawaii.org/programs/bizboost/.
If you are interested in becoming a technical provider for BizBoost, please email info@kona-kohala.com with the subject line "BizBoost Technical Provider." Mahalo!
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A new federally funded two-year initiative is in the works that aims to help Hawaii’s smallest businesses and nonprofits access federal funds at no cost, with the support of on-island experts in financial, legal, and accounting. Hiring of those experts is underway for individuals and small companies.