Program Overview
Empowering Hawaiʻi Wāhine Founders
FoundHer is a small business accelerator providing funding, training, and mentorship to early stage businesses in Hawaiʻi owned by Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, and Asian American women. In the 6-month program we provide intensive online workshops, one-on-one mentorship, $4,000 ʻohana care stipends, and a $20,000 non-dilutive grant. With this support we have seen companies double their revenue in one year.
Our Purpose
Building an Economy Rooted in Culture & Community
Small businesses are the lifeblood of Hawaiʻi’s economy and an engine of innovation, yet half of small businesses in Hawaiʻi fail within the first five years. Amidst this challenging landscape, women are leading the way to an alternative vision of business that centers cultural values, supports community, and embodies ʻāina stewardship. By supporting small businesses, families can develop a stable income that shifts them from surviving to thriving not just for themselves but for future generations.
Our Goal
A Model for an Indigenous, Regenerative Economy
FoundHer can serve as a model for Indigenous-serving groups across the world through encouraging economic systems to be cooperative, culturally grounded, and regenerative with natural resources. Our vision is to develop programs where women-owned businesses are supported enough to be able to sustain their families and communities in Hawaiʻi and beyond.
