Maui Small Business Week Attracts More Sponsors & Speakers

April 22, 2015, 8:47 AM HST
* Updated April 22, 9:07 AM

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2015 Maui SBW Social Media Special Team: (left to right) Trisha Anderson, Nicole Fisher, Danielle Miller and Gylian Solay. Courtesy photo.

By Debra Lordan

Striving to surpass last year’s ground-breaking Maui Small Business Week, organizers have lined up an abundance of sponsors, supporters, speakers and venues for the 2015 event, which will be held from May 4 through 8.

This event will be the second consecutive, local celebration of entrepreneurs and small businesses coordinated with the National Small Business Week celebration held nationwide.

2015 Maui Small Business Week Schedule

Monday, May 4, at the Fairmont Kea Lani – South Maui
Tuesday, May 5, at the Courtyard Marriott – Central Maui
Wednesday, May 6, at the Hyatt Regency – West Maui
Thursday, May 7, at the Four Seasons Maui – South Maui
Friday, May 8, at the Hyatt Regency – West Maui

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The 20115 Maui Small Business Week kicks off on May 4 with an opening ceremony at 9 a.m., at the Fairmont Kea Lani. Attendees will also have opportunity to enjoy networking with a complimentary breakfast from 8:30 a.m. to 8:55 a.m. Then, at 9 a.m., expect a surprise program for the audience as well as a couple of surprise participation from the audience.

“All the events and presentation sessions are provided at no cost to participants because the focus is on individual, micro and small businesses who are typically resource constrained,” said event organizer Grace Fung. “They represent the seeds of our local economy, and seeds must be watered and nurtured and those that survive will eventually be able to give back by providing employment, wealth generation and tax revenue. Once a business achieves success, it can afford to pay for expensive training and consultants.”

“We want to play a role in cultivating a vibrant and sustainable economy and lifestyle,” Fung said. “We want to use education to strengthen Maui’s economy and future employment opportunities. Guest experts are graciously donating their time and sharing their knowledge with the Maui small business community.”

“Generations of local residents have pursued the dream of owning their own small business,” said Fung. “Our participation in bringing more tools, tips and resources to our own Maui County’s small businesses during National Small Business Week, is our way of recognizing the critical role that these small businesses play in Maui County’s, the State of Hawaiʻi’s and ultimately America’s economic growth and global competitiveness.”

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The latest information on Small Business Week can be found online, including news, presentation details, schedules, signup, speaker bios and sponsor statements.

Sponsor Statements

Maui Mall, Bryan McFarland, Principal at Alberta Development
“Small locally owned businesses help build strong communities by creating sustainable economic development and prosperity. Alberta Development Partners is pleased to support Maui’s Small Business Week, and would like to continue to strengthen the bond that Maui Mall has built within the community. We will continue to create employment for local residents and support development activities throughout Maui County.”

Hawaiian Air Cargo, Pilialoha Wang, Sr. Manager Cargo
“As Hawaii’s flagship carrier, with over 30 departures from Maui, including daily wide-body service directly from Maui to Los Angeles, San Francisco and Seattle, we are always looking for ways to support our local communities and business partners. The Maui Small Business Week is an excellent opportunity for us to partner and support local business”

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EdVenture at UH Maui College, Wayne Wong, Project Director
“We are again, proud to kokua and support the second annual Maui Small Business Week. At affordable prices with great instructors, EdVenture provides lifelong learners access to specific skills demanded by employers as well as skills to succeed as an entrepreneur.”

2015 SBW Sponsors