Hawai'i FoundHer

Uplifting Women Entrepreneurs. Grounded in Hawaiʻi.

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Empowering Women-Led Businesses in Hawai'i

FoundHer accelerates growth for Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Asian American wāhine founded businesses in Hawai’i. No other program combines capital, family care, mentorship, and skill-building uniquely for Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Asian American wāhine. As founders, mothers, and caretakers, we are committed to removing barriers to early-stage success.

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Hawai'i FoundHer Resources

Funding

Women are over-mentored and under-funded so we aim to provide grant funding to seed your business’ growth and empower you to build your future.

Hawai'i FoundHer Resources

'Ohana-Care Stipends

Flexible child & elder care stipends that can be used to pay for anything from a day-care service to the auntie in your neighborhood or a grandparent to buy groceries.

Hawai'i FoundHer Resources

Mentorship

Participating teams are connected with two core mentors based on the industry of their business. Teams also have access to a larger advisor network with former entrepreneurs, corporate decision-makers, leaders, and subject matter experts. Mentors have been carefully chosen and for their leadership and expertise in their respective spaces as well as the balance they bring to the core mentor team. They act as sounding-boards, brainstorm partners, connectors, and supporters.

Hawai'i FoundHer Resources

Community Events

Quarterly networking and market events for our larger community of women entrepreneurs.
Hawai'i FoundHer Resources

Funding

Women are over-mentored and under-funded so we aim to provide grant funding to seed your business’ growth and empower you to build your future.

'Ohana-Care Stipends

Flexible child & elder care stipends that can be used to pay for anything from a day-care service to the auntie in your neighborhood or a grandparent to buy groceries.

Mentorship

Participating teams are connected with two core mentors based on the industry of their business. Teams also have access to a larger advisor network with former entrepreneurs, corporate decision-makers, leaders, and subject matter experts. Mentors have been carefully chosen and for their leadership and expertise in their respective spaces as well as the balance they bring to the core mentor team. They act as sounding-boards, brainstorm partners, connectors, and supporters.

Community Events

Quarterly networking and market events for our larger community of women entrepreneurs.
From the people
The $4,000 ʻOhana Care stipend from Hawai’i Found Her has been a tremendous support for our growing family. It allowed us to secure reliable childcare while we participated in our first Merrie Monarch, a major milestone for our small business. Most meaningfully, it’s now helping us maintain consistent care as we prepare to welcome our second child, giving us peace of mind and stability during this important transition.
— Steffy Simms, Founder of Guava Jammies
“It has been a joy, and an honor and a privilege being in the FoundHer Program. I have grown as a person and as a Founder. My business has grown as well. I look at things in a much broader/bigger way. I see so much potential for growth. I've have learned a lot but I have made friends, which is invaluable.”
— Dore Centeio, Founder of Kamuela Gourmet
“I’m forever grateful and honored to have been selected for Hawaiʻi FoundHer, which has created space, sisterhood, and focus for us Native Women entrepreneurs here in Hawaii.”
— Melelani Jones, Founder of Kōkua Diaper
The child care stipend helped me care for my two keiki by easing the financial stress of paying for safe, reliable child care. It gave me peace of mind knowing they were in a nurturing space while I engaged in learning through our cohort. That support made it possible for me to focus on building a better future for all of us.
— Noelani Sagapolutele
Our 'Ohana

Meet the Alumnae

'ohana

Supporting All Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Based on feedback from many applicants, we understand not everyone can join our program. That's why we host quarterly events like the Hulilau Market and Pouhana Mixers, plus offer online resources from industry experts. At Hawaiʻi FoundHer, we are committed to building and strengthening our community support.

Community Engagement

Blog posts

Building Meaningful Mentor Relationships

Building Meaningful Mentor Relationships

"Building a meaningful mentor relationship takes time, effort, and a genuine interest in mutual growth. By following these tips, you can create a lasting and valuable connection with your mentor."
6 Tips to Prepare for the Hawai'i FoundHer Application

6 Tips to Prepare for the Hawai'i FoundHer Application

"Preparing for the Hawai’i FoundHer application is a chance to reflect on your business's journey and future aspirations. By following these tips, you can create a strong application that showcases your vision, commitment, and readiness to grow with FoundHer."