Project Hoʻomana is NHCC’s business and professional development initiative serving Native Hawaiian entrepreneurs, micro and small business owners, professionals, and emerging leaders.

The program provides practical business education, mentorship, leadership development, relationship building, and connections to economic resources and opportunities.

The centerpiece of Project Hoʻomana is an intensive business development cohort delivered in partnership with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa Shidler College of Business. The curriculum includes brand development, marketing, business planning, financial understanding, presentations, and strategies for sustainable growth.

During the fiscal year, NHCC continued to expand Project Hoʻomana from an entrepreneurial cohort into a broader economic and professional development platform. The 2026 cohort began on June 8, 2026, at the Shidler College of Business and continued into the following fiscal year.

In partnership with People Strategies Hawaiʻi, NHCC launched a structured mentorship initiative connecting Native Hawaiian entrepreneurs and emerging professionals with experienced business and community leaders.

The pilot involved approximately 35 mentors and mentees and operated from July through December 2025. Its purpose was to build confidence, leadership capacity, professional networks, and access to trusted guidance.

Pūpū’s and Pro’s is NHCC’s recurring professional networking and leadership series. The program brings members, entrepreneurs, professionals, and business and community leaders together in a welcoming environment.

Participants learn from accomplished speakers, develop meaningful relationships, and identify opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.

NHCC offered workshops addressing the practical needs of Native Hawaiian businesses and professionals.

Subjects included business planning, branding, marketing, financial and business literacy, leadership, professional development, emergency preparedness, and sustainable business growth.

The workshops were designed to provide participants with knowledge and tools that could be immediately applied to their businesses, careers, and organizations.

NHCC convened members, employers, educators, government officials, and community leaders to examine economic issues affecting Native Hawaiians and Hawaiʻi’s broader business community.

These gatherings helped participants understand economic conditions, workforce challenges, emerging business opportunities, and the factors contributing to the continued migration of Native Hawaiians from Hawaiʻi.

NHCC continued expanding its outreach to Native Hawaiian businesses, professionals, and community partners.

Networking events, digital communications, member services, educational programs, and partner collaborations helped introduce new people to NHCC and increased awareness of the Chamber’s programs, relationships, and economic resources.

The ʻŌʻō Awards remain NHCC’s signature cultural and recognition event.

The annual gala honors Native Hawaiian leaders who have dedicated their lives to uplifting the lāhui. These remarkable leaders serve as role models for current and future generations of ʻŌiwi leaders.

The event also brings together hundreds of business, government, and community leaders. Funds generated after expenses help NHCC continue and expand its programs and services throughout the year.