ABOUT KŪHANA

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The KūHana program helps Hawaiian-owned entrepreneurs 1-5 years in operation get clear on their business strategy by hosting a 9-week business plan development class with tools, technical assistance, and ample networking. Each business will walk away with a completed business plan, a polished business pitch, and collaboration opportunities with their fellow cohort participants.

The Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement is launching KūHana Cohort 5 this coming June, 2021. All Hawaiʻi-based businesses are welcome to apply. Preference will be given to CNHA members and Hawaiian or minority-owned businesses. Graduates of the program may be eligible for a discounted rate for a business loan with CNHA as well as a 1-year business membership with CNHA, as well as ongoing technical assistance services paid for in full or in part by CNHA. 

The registration fee for this course is $250, with a 50% discount for applicants CNHA Business Membership.

*Scholarships Available*

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Watch the Information Session

kaʻohi

business basics seminar

Got an idea? Start your journey here by learning the fundamentals needed to kickstart your business with the free Kaʻohi Business Basics Seminar program.

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Open to brand new business. Classes are ongoing.

e hoʻopaʻa

to solidify & make strong

Solidify your foundation! Learn market research, cultural values, and sustainability integration to set a strong foundation from which to grow.

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Open to start-up businesses 1 to 4 years in operations.

e kūkulu

to build & grow

Scale up! Learn to grow your company and take it to the next level with culturally-grounded business practices.

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Open to developed businesses 5+ years in operations. We are currently seeking applications for Cohort 5.

food systems

kaʻaina kamahaʻo

This cohort will prepare Hawaiʻi businesses in the food and agriculture industry scale and plan for future demand, to achieve resiliency and secure a strong economy.

E Kūkulu Cohort 2

 It takes a community.

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Each KūHana cohort forms a long-lasting network of Native Hawaiian and Hawaiʻi based small businesses that collaborate and grow together.
 

Meet the Program Manager

G. Max Mukai is a Program Manager at CNHA.  He was raised in the East Honolulu Kona District of Oʻahu – He is a proud graduate of Kamehameha Schools class of 2010 and attended Pepperdine University Seaver College undergraduate program and Graziadio School of Business & Management for his graduate program. His passions can be found at the intersection of Hawaiian culture and economic development.