Since 1900, YWCA Oahu’s programs have evolved to meet the needs of Hawaii’s women. Across the United States, women entrepreneurs make up nearly 40% of all businesses. Here in Hawaii, women start and lead small businesses for many reasons from pursuing a passion, seeking flexibility in work, and for an additional income source for their families.
YWCA Oʻahu’s YWahine in Business serves as Hawaii's premier resource for entrepreneurs, providing a comprehensive suite of services under one organization, our mission is to empower people in business through essential technical assistance, fostering business development, growth, and access to capital.
YWahine in Business resources are provided through our 3 women’s business centers:
Patsy T. Mink Center for Business & Leadership in Downtown Honolulu
Kokokahi Women’s Business Center in Kaneohe
Maui Women’s Business Center in Kahalui
We are dedicated to advancing the success of entrepreneurs across the islands.
QUICK LINKS
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INCUBATOR: START UP & EARLY-STAGE BUSINESSES
This 7-week hybrid course offers business fundamentals for new and early startups. This cohort provides early-start and growth entrepreneurs with insight, knowledge, and resources for a stronger future.
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FOUNDATIONS: CAPITAL READINESS
This 3-class comprehensive cohort is designed to help small businesses create a solid foundation to grow your business and prepare for access to capital.
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ACCELERATOR: Established Businesses
5-week online cohort designed to help businesses analyze data and develop metrics to evaluate and make specific business decisions to grow the business. To understand how growth affects cash flow, balance sheets and financing needs.
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PITCH & MATCH: ACCESS TO CAPITAL
Pitch & Match opportunities to meet with capital providers such as SSBCI Programs, CDFI (Community Development Financial Institutions), Government Programs, local lenders, and other funding sources.
HERstory: Cristina Nishioka
Beyond Pastry
The YWCA Oʻahu Programs gave Cristina the courage and confidence needed to continue growing her business. After hitting her 3-year mark in business, Cristina found herself faced with the challenge of innovating her business to stay competitive in the downtown Honolulu market. In 2021, Cristina was selected as Shop Small Hawaiiʻs Neighborhood Champion. As the owner of Beyond Pastry, Cristina has not only created a successful business but has also used her platform to give back to the community in meaningful ways. She is a strong advocate for local causes, often partnering with charities and organizations to raise awareness and support for those in need including our women of Fernhurst.
ADVANCING ENTREPRENEURS IN HAWAII
YWCA Oahu’s YWahine in Business serves as Hawaii's premier resource for entrepreneurs, providing a comprehensive suite of services under one organization. Our mission is to empower businesses through essential technical assistance, fostering business development, growth, and access to capital. We are dedicated to advancing the success of entrepreneurs across the islands.
