Google Offers Free Workshop for Maui Businesses

Screen shot of Hawaii Get Your Business Online website. Courtesy image.

By Wendy Osher

Internet giant Google is offering a free seminar for Maui businesses interested in expanding their company’s online presence.

Organizers say the “Get Your Business Online” workshop is part of a national program designed to drive economic growth by “helping small businesses increase their online visibility, find new customers, and sell more products.”

“The perception that getting online is complex, costly and time-consuming has prevented many Hawaiʻi small businesses from taking the first step,” said Scott Levitan, director of small business engagement at Google in a press release. “This program makes it fast, easy and free for businesses to get online,” he said.

The workshop offers those in attendance a free “easy-to-build” Homestead website, free customized domain name, free web hosting for one year, and a business listing on Google.

In addition, participants will also receive guidance on resources and training.

US Senator Brian Schatz joined in the announcement saying, “Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and an important part of Hawaii’s economy. I’m partnering with Google for this Maui workshop because we need to support our small businesses and help them grow and expand in Hawaiʻi.”

According to the announcement, “97% of internet users look online for local products and services, but 68% of small businesses in Hawaiʻi do not have a website or online presence.”

“I saw the hard work and sacrifices my in-laws made as small business owners day in and day out to run a successful restaurant,” said Sen. Schatz. “Our event with Google will help small business owners improve their customer base by giving them the online tools to expand their reach.”

The three-hour workshop is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19, at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center.

For more information or to register, visit the workshop website or call  1 (800) 986-6852.