HONOLULU (KHON2) — Idea2Biz isn’t looking for perfection. You don’t need a logo, an LLC or a fancy pitch deck to apply.
The City and County of Honolulu’s Office of Economic Revitalization (OER) is launching Idea2Biz, a new small business incubator program.
“Small businesses are truly the heart of our community, creating new jobs while adding to Honolulu’s unique character,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “This program is creating pathways to keep more local families on Oʻahu by supporting homegrown talent and providing the tools to build a successful business.”
This 13-week, cohort-style initiative aims to support aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those from Oʻahu’s Waiʻanae Coast.
Applications opened on May 1 and close on June 2. The program begins on June 17 and runs through Sept. 13.
What is Idea2Biz?
Idea2Biz is a pilot program designed to transform entrepreneurial ideas into viable businesses. It offers mentorship, education and resources facilitated by experienced business professionals.
The program specifically targets aspiring entrepreneurs from Oʻahu’s Waiʻanae Coast. In-person workshops will be held on Tuesdays at the Kalanihoʻokahā Community Learning Center in Nānākuli. These are scheduled in the evening to accommodate working participants.
“This program represents our commitment to fostering economic growth from the ground up,” said Amy Asselbaye, Executive Director of the Office of Economic Revitalization. “By providing comprehensive support to individuals with business ideas or informal side hustles, we’re creating pathways to sustainable entrepreneurship for those who have historically faced barriers to entry.”
Who should apply?
The program is open to:
- Local entrepreneurs with promising business ideas who are seeking to develop them into a small business.
- Informal entrepreneurs or hobbyists generating little to no formal revenue who have a desire to formalize their businesses.
- Community members along the Waiʻanae Coast.
Eliza Talbot, OER Commission Chair, emphasized, “This program addresses a critical gap in our entrepreneurial ecosystem by focusing on the very earliest stages of business development. By equipping participants with both practical skills and confidence, we’re laying the foundation for a new generation of local businesses that will contribute to a resilient economy.”
What participants will receive
Each of the 20 selected participants will receive:
- Specialized weekly training sessions covering entrepreneurship fundamentals, business model development, marketing, legal structure and financial planning.
- Personalized mentorship from small business experts.
- Access to the OER’s Oʻahu Business Connector network and resource partners.
- Guidance on formal business registration, banking relationships and market positioning.
- Eligibility to receive at least $1,250 in early-stage funding upon the program’s completion.
Program partners
Idea2Biz collaborates with several organizations to provide comprehensive support:
- Waiʻanae Economic Development Council.
- Patsy T. Mink Center for Business & Leadership.
- XLR8.
- Native Hawaiian Chamber of Commerce.
- Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement.
- Hawaiʻi USA Federal Credit Union.
- Pakini Loan Fund.
How to apply
Applications are open from May 1 to June 2. Interested individuals can apply online by clicking here.
Idea2Biz offers a unique opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into reality. With mentorship, education and resources, participants will be equipped to navigate the challenges of starting a business.
If you’re on the Waiʻanae Coast and have a business idea or side hustle, this program could be the stepping stone you need.