OHA to host small business workshop

The Office of Hawaiian Affairs-East Hawaii, in partnership with OHA Malama Loans, Small Business Development Center, Hi‘ilei Aloha LLC, Kohala Center, Hawaiian Community Assets and Liquid Life invites the public to its Small Business Workshop and Informational Session from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Big Island Top Dogs, located at 811 Laukupu St., Suite 6 in Hilo.

The workshop is intended to be a resource for entrepreneurs looking to start their own business or those who want to grow their business. Come learn about the different tools and support available to assist.

Puna and Ola Tripp, owners of Liquid Life in Keaau, also will share their journey, successes and challenges, of being a business owner.

“It can be difficult to take the initial steps and navigate the processes of starting your own business,” said Ola Tripp. “We were blessed to have mentors and support throughout the way, as we went from selling our juices from farmers markets to then opening our own storefront. We are happy to share our journey and encourage others so we can see more locally-owned businesses on our island.”

OHA Malama Loans’ mission is to enhance access for all people of Native Hawaiian ancestry to credit, capital and financial services and skills to create jobs, wealth and economic and social well-being for all the people of Hawaii. OHA Malama Loans also will provide more information about Malama Business and Hua Kanu Business Loans available to businesses that are owned by Native Hawaiians.

“OHA Malama Loans was a big part of our journey,” Tripp said. “They gave us the support we needed to grow our dream business, and in turn, we hope to give that support back to our community.”

For more information, contact OHA’s community outreach coordinator Kamaile Puluole-Mitchell at 933-3106 or email kamailep@oha.org.